Episode 794 of the Pennsylvania Rock Show welcomes back the Philadelphia-based hard rock band Rat Rod, a group that proudly carries the torch of classic rock and roll with a modern edge. Known for their gritty riffs, high-energy shows, and relentless work ethic, Rat Rod has built a reputation as one of the hardest-working independent rock bands on the East Coast. This time around, they’re celebrating the release of their brand-new single, “The Highway,” a track that captures the band’s signature sound: raw, powerful, and uncompromising.
Formed in 2016, Rat Rod is anchored by the father-son guitar duo Mark and Brice McCarty, alongside vocalist Jeremy Hugo, bassist LJ, and drummer Harry Rosa. Together, they’ve released three studio albums and one live album, bringing their hard-driving rock to venues across the East Coast and Midwest. Their schedule has included multiple stops at the legendary M3 Pre-Party in Columbia, Maryland, where they shared the stage with heavy hitters like Bad Marriage (featuring former Tesla guitarist Tommy Skeoch), The Midnight Devils, and more.
Their music videos, including “Lightning Strikes” from their Light Em Up album and “Lone Wolf Rider,” have collectively racked up tens of thousands of views, proving Rat Rod’s growing reach and loyal fan base. With influences rooted in AC/DC, Rose Tattoo, Airbourne, Guns N’ Roses, Jet, and The Angels, Rat Rod delivers no-frills, pedal-to-the-metal rock that feels like it belongs in both smoky bars and massive arenas.
Known for their relentless gigging, sometimes hitting three shows in two days, Rat Rod thrives on live performance. From strip malls to concert halls, their mission has always been to bring high-octane rock wherever there’s a stage. Tracks like “Knock ‘Em Down,” “All or Nothin’,” and “Hella Ride” have become fan favorites, solidifying their reputation as purveyors of no-nonsense, good-time rock and roll.
In this episode, Bill and the band dive into the making of “The Highway,” their journey from 2016 to today, and what’s next for this unstoppable Philadelphia powerhouse. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic hard rock or someone searching for fresh blood in the rock scene, Rat Rod proves that rock and roll is alive, well, and rolling down the highway.
Learn more about Rat Rod and their upcoming shows at ratrodrocks.com
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