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Draft:Nasty Ratz

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    • Nasty Ratz' current line-up; Alex (drums), Jake Widow (vocals), Xriss String (bass guitar), Matt Viperi (guitars)
      Nasty Ratz is a Czech sleaze rock and glam metal band formed in Prague in 2012. Their music draws inspiration from 1980s hard rock and glam metal, with influences from bands like KISS, Guns N’ Roses, and Crashdïet. Over the years, the band has toured across Europe and the UK, performing as both headliners and support for established artists.

History

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Formation and Early Years (2012–2014)

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Nasty Ratz was founded in 2012 in Prague, Czech Republic. They quickly developed a reputation for their energetic stage presence and sleazy rock sound. In 2013, they released their debut EP, I Don’t Wanna Care under Leviathan Records, featuring Serpenth (Belphegor) on bass. The EP was a limited release that quickly sold out[1], becoming a rare collector’s item.

*First Bite* and Breakthrough (2015–2017)

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In 2015, Nasty Ratz released their first full-length album, *First Bite*, funded through a fan-supported pledge campaign. Shortly after, they signed a two-album worldwide distribution deal with Sleaszy Rider Records. The album helped the band gain international attention, with songs featuring a blend of sleaze, glam, and classic heavy metal elements. However, the album was sometimes critiqued for lacking originality caused by Stevie Gunn's riffs being heavily inspired by his favorite artists such as Ratt, Europe and Loudness[2]

The band gained further recognition in 2017 when they collaborated with legendary producer Beau Hill (Alice Cooper, Warrant, Ratt) on the single Price of Love composed by Jake Widow, Tommy Christen and Stevie Gunn[3]. The track helped expand their reach beyond Central Europe and introduced them to a wider global audience.

*Second Chance* and Growing Recognition (2019–2023)

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Nasty Ratz released their second studio album, Second Chance in 2019, featuring singles such as: Price of Love ; Poetic Justice ; Against the World ; Watch Your Back ; The WASTE

The album received positive reviews internationally, with critics praising the band’s ability to modernize the sleaze rock sound while staying true to its roots[4]. The band continued to tour extensively across Europe and the UK, building a dedicated fan base.

*Third Cut* and Recent Activity (2024–Present)

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On October 9, 2024, Nasty Ratz released their third studio album, Third Cut, fully produced by Martin Sweet (Crashdïet). The album featured guest appearances from: Swan Hellion (BlackRain), Martin Čupka (John Wolfhooker).

The album was met with strong critical acclaim, with publications like Classic Rock praising its energy, production quality, and songwriting.

One of the album’s most talked-about songs was the power ballad Daddy*, which addresses the serious issue of pedophilia awareness. The song sparked discussions among fans and the media highlighting its bold lyrical content and emotional depth.[5]

In a notable moment, members of the band gifted their album to Gene Simmons of KISS, showcasing their deep admiration for one of their biggest influences.[6]

Musical Style and Influences

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Nasty Ratz blends sleaze rock, hard rock, and glam metal, often described as the bastard baby of KISS and Guns N’ Roses. However, according to the band members themselves, there are lot more influences such as Marilyn Manson, Abba and Hardcore Superstar. Their sound is characterized by: Catchy choruses and flashy guitar solos.

They have cited influences ranging from Skid Row and Mötley Crüe to Crashdïet and Reckless Love, with a distinct European sleaze rock edge.[7]

Live Performances and Touring

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Nasty Ratz performing in 2025

Nasty Ratz is known for energetic live performances, having played at numerous festivals and rock venues. In addition to their own tours, they have supported major acts within the sleaze and glam metal community.

Discography

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Nasty Ratz - Third Cut (2024)

Studio Albums

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- First Bite (2015)

- Second Chance (2019)

- Third Cut (2024)

Band Members

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Current Lineup

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Jake Widow (2012-present) – vocals

Matt Viperi - guitar, backing vocals

Xriss String - bass guitar, backing vocals

Alex - Drums

Past members

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Stevie Gunn (2012-2016) - guitars, backing vocals

Tommy Christen (2012-2015) - bass guitar, backing vocals

Nikki Allin (2015-2016) - bass guitar

Rikki Wild (2012-2015) - drums, backing vocals

Serpenth (ex- Belphegor) (2014) - bass guitar

Mick Rook (2016-2017) - guitars, backing vocals

Randy Dee (2016-2025) - drums, backing vocals

Jordy Riot (2017 - 2025) - guitars, backing vocals

References

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  1. ^ "Hudební vydavatelství Leviathan Music- I DONT WANNA CARE". www.leviathanmusic.cz. Retrieved 2025-03-12.
  2. ^ Rockpages (2016-08-02). "Nasty Ratz - First Bite". Rockpages. Retrieved 2025-03-12.
  3. ^ Olivier (2017-03-25). "Nasty Ratz release video for Beau Hill produced song "Price Of Love" - Sleaze Roxx". Retrieved 2025-03-12.
  4. ^ "Nasty Ratz - Second Chance". Metal Temple Magazine. Retrieved 2025-03-12.
  5. ^ Olivier (2024-09-28). "Nasty Ratz drop video for ballad "Daddy" - Sleaze Roxx". Retrieved 2025-03-12.
  6. ^ NASTY RATZ Official (2023-07-12). Gene Simmons giving the "not a happy truth" to Jake Widow of NASTY RATZ. Retrieved 2025-03-12 – via YouTube.
  7. ^ Myglobalmind_Webzine (2016-08-06). "All Covered in Sleaze, Interview with Jake Widow (Vocals) (Nasty Ratz)". Your Online Magazine for Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. Retrieved 2025-03-12.