I Just Read About That…

[DID NOT ATTEND: July 10, 2026] Ratboys / Golden Apples

I’ve seen Ratboys three times and have really enjoyed all of their live shows.  I didn’t love this new album as much–it goes too deep into the country angle.  And yet, I know that their live show is great.  But I couldn’t make this show as I had a show the night before and I’ve been down on White Eagle Hall lately. The venue is great but the parking is just insurmountable.  I’d have to really like someone to head back there again.

So this was my second time NOT seeing Ratboys within a few months.

Back in 2023, I first heard of Golden Apples.  I noted that they are a gentle pop band with feelings of jangle pop, grunge, and dream pop.  I listened to one of their songs “Under the Sun” and it sounded instantly familiar, but I had never heard them before.  The song “High School” is a bit dirtier sounding and comes from the first album when Golden Apples are a full band.  I enjoyed it just as much if not more.  I’m immediately hooked and will definitely be listening to them more.

I didn’t listen to more of them because when I finally saw them live last month, I didn’t realize I had checked them out before, because I wrote

I enjoyed the simple but catchy guitar riff of followed by the totally rocking High School. During this song, Russell stepped off the stage (it’s about 6 inches high) and played his solo among the crowd (which was empty up front).  The set was about 30 minutes and I really enjoyed it  The songs were catchy with some slightly off kilter vibes.

This would have definitely been a good show if WEH was easier to get to.