Ratz Evolution

The Rat race began just after the summer of '90 for Ciid. At a party in Toms River while playing with WAYSIDE the word was that the band had broken up. Ciid, sad and depressed, decided it was time to do his own stuff, "I refuse to play with anyone who isn't powerful and committed," he says. Although he didn't know it then, his wheel of destiny was turning toward a chance encounter with Shock. Shock, well known for his power bass and monster stacks happened to be free after wrapping up a tour with a local Jersey Shore top 40 cover band THE HEATERS. "I did metal in the 70's with CRYSIS and R&B during the 80's with CENTRAL AVE." "I felt it was time to pursue an original project," says Shock. After their first drummer left to pursue a different musical direction, the band went into a holding pattern till they recruited Riip who was looking to express his own creativity. With that, the power trio was complete and ready to blast. Their sound has been described as: Anti-glam, sort of RAMONish, reminiscent of the early CBGB's, a cross between ELVIS and METALLICA.

Scope'n the Rat

Ciid: (guitar and vocals) The optimist, sensitive powerful obsessive and opinionated. He frequently performs with bare feet. Born in Toms River, New Jersey, his early work included employment as a short haired Atlantic City waiter and then a long haired plumber. Distractions: sex, guitars and motorcycles. He is fond of blondes with green eyes and guitars. Frequently heard saying "You mad at me?". His favorite quote changes but right now it's "You're a joker, you laugh but you never smile," by Ronnie James Dio. Ciid's musically influenced by: Angus Young, Vivian Campbell, Bruce Springsteen, George Lynch, and Elvis. His first concert was ELO in 1976. When asked about how he feels about R n' R he relpies, "I live, breath, eat, and sleep it." Best sex? "wow not yet" (he laughs). The world without the Dirty Ratz he described as glum.

Shock: (bass and vocals) The realist, mysterious and quiet but frequently way too loud. Occasionally known to disappear from the radar screen. Born in Newark, N.J. His early jobs included work as an electrician. Distractions: "the night sky". Fond of his bass guitars and thunder. Frequently heard saying "What?" Favorite quote, "well, there you have it" from the movie Amedeus. Influenced by: Pink Floyd, Areosmith, and Led Zepplin. First concert was Iron Butterfly in '73. His best sex was in a mud hole, "It was real dirty," he says. The world without the Dirty Ratz he described as having to be a cleaner place. When asked what's next he said, "lunch."

Riip: (drums and vocals) He's upbeat, hyper-active and way out of control. An individual who hits things for a living. Born in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, his early jobs included pushing trinkets in the Mall at SPENCERS. Distractions: sports, especially soccer. Frequently heard saying "Hey, how ya' doin'?" Favorite quote: "You can't make chicken salad out'a chicken shit!" by Peteo. Heavily influenced by Alex VanHalen, Scott Rockenfield, and Neil Peart. "You'll probably hear each one of them in me," he says as he laughs! First concert was T.T.Quick at Great Adventure in '81. When asked how he feels about R n' R Riip replies, "Its so powerful and dynamic yet subtle." When asked about his best sex he laughs "Oh, I could go on and on!". The world without the Dirty Ratz he feels would be too peaceful.