The definitive history of Ratt
Two of the original five members of Ratt have penned autobiographies, and shared their perspectives on the history of the band that gave us great tunes such as “Round and Round,” “Lay It Down,” and “Way Cool Jr.” However, author Greg Prato breaks down the hard rock band’s definitive history in “World Infestation.” From San Diego to Los Angeles, this glam metal band was on fire in the 1980s, turning out hit records and rocking their thriving fanbase in concert.
Ratt succeeded in turning heads with the music video for “Round and Round,” which featured a cross dressing Milton Berle and was heavily played on MTV. The band was managed by Marshall Berle, Milton’s nephew. Prato details the band’s early days as Mickey Ratt, and later adopting the famed Ratt logo. The author utilizes past and recent interviews to show how the band’s viewpoints have changed over the years.
Prato chronicles the band’s profitable years releasing hit albums and touring, but also addresses their struggles. In the early 1990’s, Grunge music was taking over the scene, putting Ratt on hiatus. Drugs claimed guitar Robin Crosby in 2002, after testing positive for HIV. Ratt united, but a major split left fans with two Ratt bands, and then came the lawsuits.
I enjoyed Prato’s assessment of the band’s many accomplishments. He also does a fantastic job of defining the band’s legacy, showing the influence and impact Ratt has had on musicians. I also appreciate the author’s research and sharing the many Ratt stories. This was a very welcomed trip down memory lane. “What goes around, comes around!”
By: Greg Prato
Narrated by: Greg Prato
Length: 5 hrs and 35 mins
Release date: 02-12-24
Publisher: Greg Prato Writer, Corp.