Ratboys release new music video for song “Anywhere”
Ratboys have returned with their latest single, “Anywhere,” setting the stage for their new album, Singin’ to an Empty Chair, scheduled for a February 6, 2026 release through New West Records. The Chicago indie-rock outfit, consisting of Julia Steiner, Dave Sagan, Marcus Nuccio, and Sean Neumann, showcases a newfound sense of confidence and emotional depth in their music, converting therapy sessions and inner turmoil into a radiant, twangy rock sound ideal for late-night drives and heartfelt conversations.
The album draws inspiration from the psychological “Empty Chair” exercise found in therapy, where one communicates with an absent individual. For Steiner, this exercise symbolizes a connection she has lost with a loved one. However, rather than dwell in melancholy, the band channels this space into a series of tracks that explore themes of connection, memory, and optimism. Though deeply personal, the songs remain infused with wit and warmth, as evidenced by the track “Anywhere,” founded on the anxious attachment Sagan’s family dog shared.
The newly released music video, directed by Bobby Butterscotch, cleverly juxtaposes scenes of the band performing energetically in a Chicago fish store with a narrative following a city-dweller who owns a goldfish. This visual representation encapsulates the quintessential Ratboys essence—playful, slightly eccentric, and brimming with emotion.
Singin’ to an Empty Chair sees the band reuniting with producer Chris Walla (formerly of Death Cab for Cutie), who played a pivotal role in shaping their 2023 album, The Window. Recorded across various locations including a Wisconsin cabin, Electrical Audio, and Rosebud Studio, the album captures Ratboys at their most assured and collaborative, mirroring a patchwork quilt sewn together from every emotional thread of their lives.
Fans can look forward to the album’s forthcoming release by pre-ordering or pre-saving their copy, and also catch Ratboys on tour during early 2026 as they share their soulful sound and lively energy in various cities across North America. This tour promises an intimate experience infused with Ratboys’ signature charm and musical prowess, ensuring an unforgettable evening for attendees. The band will be supported by Florry, villagerrr, and Free Range on select dates throughout the tour, making each concert an eclectic and engaging experience for music enthusiasts.
Overall, Ratboys’ return with their latest single and upcoming album holds a charming, heartfelt promise of musical exploration, self-discovery, and emotional depth. Their unique sound and sincere lyricism make them an indie-rock force to be reckoned with, capturing the hearts of listeners seeking both comfort and adventure in the world of music.