Ratt enthusiasts will likely remember the tumultuous period back in late 2015 when drummer Bobby Blotzer initially announced his intention to tour under the banner of “Bobby Blotzer’s Ratt Experience.” Eventually, Blotzer more or less adopted the name “Ratt” for his band, sparking years of legal disputes.
Following what appeared to be a legal victory regarding the Ratt name, lead vocalist Stephen Pearcy and bassist Juan Croucier hit the road as Ratt, accompanied by three other musicians. Subsequently, Pearcy made it clear that he would only consider touring again if he could reunite with the remaining classic lineup members: Blotzer (who was willing), Croucier, and guitarist Warren DeMartini. Regrettably, this reunion never materialized, and Pearcy has been touring and performing Ratt songs with his solo band, featuring his longtime guitarist Erik Ferentinos.
Now, it seems Blotzer has grown weary of waiting on the sidelines for things to unfold as he recently announced his intentions via social media to embark on a tour under a new band name, “Bobby Blotzer’s Rat Attack.”
Blotzer posted the following message (as transcribed from the Facebook post via Metal Sludge):
“Hi Friends:
I’m feeling a bit restless on my retirement break over here. I want to see you all!! I’m in the process of planning a tour, and considering all that’s involved, I hope, and I’m guessing you hope too, to see me out there. Lol!
I’ve made up my mind to give it another go. I’m collaborating with some truly fantastic musicians whose names I will reveal soon. If you caught my version of the tour back in 2016, you’re going to love this!
I’m placing a strong emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the original sound, making sure we sound just like the records. That has always been my mantra, even during the original days. I think I achieved that goal in 2016, and perhaps even more so than in the original days. Lol!
Unfortunately, Stephen Pearcy and I, in our efforts to reunite the original 1984 RATT lineup, just couldn’t make it happen.
So, what you’re going to witness now is Stephen with his brand, and me with mine.
All I can promise is that I will put my heart and soul into delivering the best show, just as I have for the past 42 years, helping create all the songs that we brought to you!! It will be reminiscent of the version I presented.
Yes, it’s been quite some time since 2016, and even longer since we were all together in 2013.
The good news is that our first rehearsal was mind-blowing. I initially thought I was rusty,
But things improved rapidly, or I should say, I improved. I shook off the rust, stretched my limbs, and flexed those muscles. I began striking the drums and cymbals with more force. When we brought in the other musicians the next day, I felt the same vibe I had back in 2015 when I first contemplated this journey, and I thought, ‘Wow, this sounds like the real deal, baby!’
Stay tuned for more updates very soon. Thank you.
Yours truly,
THE BLOTZ BB”