The future of punk is a throwback, and Minneapolis’ own Toilet Rats are leading the charge. Dropping ‘Synth Redux Vol. 1’ on April 25, 2025, through Steadfast Records and Sweet Cheetah Records, this release is a lean, mean, synth-punk machine that reimagines your favourite tracks with a fresh, raw edge.
This isn’t your typical remix. Tommy Ratz (aka Thomas Rehbein) channels the gritty vibe of underground basement shows and the pulsing, icy beats of early synth-punk. Imagine Rats classics supercharged with pulsing drum machines, fierce analog synths, and a nihilistic groove that could set a dancefloor on fire in 1983.
“Picture your favourite Rats songs coming alive at a late-night punk dance party,” Ratz explains.
Here, chaos meets clarity—a rebirth where overdriven beats and ghostly synths create an electrifying soundscape. This is the track that fans of dystopian dance parties and unapologetic noise have been waiting for.
Experience the energy firsthand with the Clap Back (Synth Redux) video, where electro-clash elements collide with raw, dirty beats and deep, vintage synth sounds, crafted using the iconic Roland Juno 106 and Moog Rogue.
According to the band, “‘Clap Back (Synth Redux)’ is all about standing your ground. I really dug into a grimy beat and heavy, distorted synths to drive home that message—you’ve got the power to stand up for yourself.”
Pre-order ‘Synth Redux Vol. 1’ now and get ready to rock.
Influenced by the gothic glow of Vision Video, the icy grooves of New Order, the razor-wire edge of Siekiera’s post-punk, and the neon melodrama of Human League, this release is a true collision of eras and styles.
“He’s like a sharp 1977-1978 Devo Bob Casale or Screamers’ Tommy Gear—with a cheeky twist that makes it all so great!”
– Jack Rabid, Big Takeover #95
Don’t miss Toilet Rats live:
- Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Zhora Darling in Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Friday, April 18, 2025, at Thesis in Rochester, Minnesota
- Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Underground Music Cafe in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Get ready for a punk revolution with a retro heartbeat!
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