8 Ratt Rockers from Deep in Their Catalog

One of the leading lights of the ‘80s Sunset Strip rock era, Ratt broke big with their full-length debut Out of the Cellar in 1984 and kept their momentum going throughout the decade of decadence. Ever the spirited showmen, the rowdy quintet—frontman Stephen Pearcy, guitarists Warren DeMartini and Robbin Crosby, bassist Juan Croucier, and drummer Bobby Blotzer—combined streamlined songwriting with sizzling six-string work and Pearcy’s distinctly rasping vocals. Their 2010 reunion album Infestation is also worth checking out—it was a good return to form.

People know a lot of the band’s big hits like “Round and Round,” “Lay It Down,” and “You’re in Love,” but there are plenty of other memorable tracks to dive into. Here are eight of them.

“You Think You’re Tough” from Ratt EP (1983)

With a lower budget, Ratt sounded a lot more raw on their indie debut, which included a cover of Rufus Smith’s Top-10 hit, 1963’s “Walkin’ the Dog.” That was an interesting choice. “You Think You’re Tough” has that Ratt hookiness with some bite. The band walked the line between hard rock and metal as they progressed throughout the ‘80s.

“You’re in Trouble” from Out of the Cellar (1984)

Here’s a song for the urban jungle with its funky bass line and dancing toms—it’s the right soundtrack for these “concrete pirates.” Produced by Beau Hill, Ratt’s first full-length album for Atlantic Records perfectly captured their ethos and aesthetic and was an immediate hit. But the trouble was temporary as on their next album they would turn out “You’re In Love.” Whew!

“The Morning After” from Out of the Cellar (1984)

One of the most-revved up Ratt rockers from their debut album, “The Morning After” is a vibrant, galloping exit anthem for a one-night stand. The band had plenty of songs about hedonistic revelry—that’s what they excelled in—and this is one of the best. Out of the Cellar recently got a souped-up, 40th anniversary deluxe edition with a bonus track.

“Never Use Love” from Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)

The second song on the band’s sophomore album features one of its catchiest riffs and most-spirited choruses. There’s plenty of swagger coursing through this track which was probably too hard-rocking to be a single.

“Got Me on the Line” from Invasion of Your Privacy (1985)

Like “You’re In Trouble,” this song shows why Croucier was such an asset to the band. His snaking bass work in the chorus gives it a little extra kick. It’s also got that male bravado typical of the Sunset Strip era: You like your home sweet home all alone / You will be callin’ me / I’ve heard the news around the town / You’re not gonna hang up on me. Uh-huh, sure.

“Enough Is Enough” from Dancing Undercover (1986)

This album-closer is one of the more melodic and poppier songs here, and it makes for a nice contrast on the list. The subdued riffing at the beginning has a Rolling Stones-like vibe to it, setting the stage for the mid-tempo stomp to follow. And, of course, the lyrics are about being impatient to get it on.

“City to City” from Reach for the Sky (1988)

An ode to the life on the road, “City to City” is a solid album-opener in which Pearcy confesses to being beguiled by his lifestyle: Street fights all the time / I take a chance into the night / I’ve got to hear the thunder / Night life dies hard / Keeps me on my guard / It’s like a spell I’m under. It’s a hard-driving track with a pulsing groove.

“Top Secret” from Detonator (1990)

There is a slightly dark undercurrent to this highly charged, riff-heavy rocker. The dramatic chord progression in the chorus is one of the most memorable they came up with. “Top Secret” hasn’t gotten a lot of love in concert, but it should. It would be a great set-opener.

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