Tape Swap Radio's Shamus McGroggan talks with Julia Steiner, guitarist and singer for the Chicago-based band Ratboys.
The band has gone from scrappy DIY outfit in the dorms of the University of Notre Dame to crisscrossing the county and releasing six albums to a growing fanbase. Their most recent effort is their first for New West Record, Singin’ to an Empty Chair.
Steiner reflects on some of the Chicago DIY venues that have shaped the band’s early years, recording the new album with producer Chris Walls, writing lyrics for new songs like “Anywhere,” and more. The band’s experience playing in the Lehigh Valley is not extensive, but Steiner is quick to mention her friendship with our area’s favorite DIY heavy pop band (and former Tape Swap Radio guests) Slingshot Dakota.
Steiner called in from her Chicago home as the band prepares to hop back on the road for more tour dates, including a stop at Archer Music Hall in Allentown on Monday, June 22. Tickets and information for that show are available at Archer’s website.
This interview originally aired on WDIY 88.1 FM on June 12, 2026.
Photo Credit: Miles Kalchik