The Making of the Album: A Reflection of Chaos and Creativity

The conversation kicked off with talk about their most recent album, which has been a long time coming. For Erica, the release marked a significant milestone after years of hard work. “It came out at the end of March last year, and it’s just so fucking sick to finally have years of work out there,” she said, clearly stoked. It was evident that this project had a special place in her heart, and the relief of finally getting it out into the world was palpable.

Jaz added some context on how the album came together. “We wrote and recorded the songs over a couple of years before deciding they would be put together as an album. So it’s a bit of a random mix of genres and moods, which is a pretty good summation of us as a band: fun, weird, and all over the shop.” The album isn’t just a sonic rollercoaster; it’s a reflection of their diverse experiences over the years. As Jaz put it, “There’s a whole lot of real feelings, experiences, and stories from those years crammed into it, and there’s also a whole lot of silliness and absolute jibberish. We had heaps of fun with it.”

This fusion of personal experiences and unrestrained creativity is what makes RatSalad’s music stand out. It’s not just about the songs; it’s about capturing the chaotic, unpredictable moments that come with life—sometimes serious, sometimes absurd, but always real.

Musical Roots: Growing Up with Soundtracks

As with many musicians, the foundation of their musical journey was laid in childhood. Both Erica and Jaz shared how music was always present in their lives growing up, shaping who they are as artists today. “Music was almost always on at my parent’s houses growing up,” Erica said, reflecting on how her upbringing influenced her. “It’s the soundtrack to my life, and I’d struggle without it! The motivation, inspiration, and froth it gives me is like nothing else.” She laughed when talking about how music could mirror any mood, even the more melancholic ones. “Even when I’m sad and in a Deftones mood to really escalate the sadness.”

Jaz echoed this sentiment, adding that her love for music started young as well. “My mum had a sick CD collection and always got around whatever I was into at the time, even when I hit teen years and got into heavier and moodier music that probably scared the crap out of her.” For both of them, music was never just background noise; it was an ever-present soundtrack to their lives, fuelling their passions and creative drive.

Influences and Inspirations

When I asked who inspired them to start making music, it was clear that both family and friends played a significant role in their journey. For Erica, it was their guitarist Ken who had the biggest influence. “Ken put the rocket up us to get music out as soon as possible, which has been sick, and I’m eternally grateful,” she said. Ken didn’t just push the band musically—he inspired them to take their creativity seriously and get their music out into the world.

Jaz, too, mentioned Ken as a key influence, but her roots in music trace back to her childhood as well. “As a kid, I was always dancing and singing and writing cringey lyrics and dreaming of being in a band, so mum got me piano and guitar lessons,” she explained, laughing at the memory of her early attempts at learning instruments. “But I never really practiced or got any good.” Still, those early lessons were pivotal in igniting her passion for music. Jaz went on to explain how Ken introduced her to punk music and, after watching him play in punk bands for a decade, she finally gathered the courage to start making music herself.

It's clear that while punk may have been the genre that truly called to Jaz, both she and Erica were inspired by the music around them growing up—whether from family members or the world outside.

The Creative Process

When it comes to the band’s creative process, it’s a mix of spontaneity, collaboration, and sometimes a little chaos. Erica describes it as a blend of elements that come together in unexpected ways. “Ken comes up with a sick riff or picks one of his crazy delicious ones off the shelf,” she said. “Jaz figures out which one of her either funny, hectic, or relatable lyric notes from her phone fits in with the riff, and then we try to lay the song out as sick as we can with drums.” It’s a process that starts with an idea and evolves into something bigger as everyone adds their touch.

Jaz chimed in with a more lighthearted take on their writing sessions. “Usually, we are meant to be jamming for a gig, but we have a few beers and fuck around coming up with new shit instead,” she laughed. It’s this carefree, fun energy that fuels much of their creative process. They’re not trying to follow a formula; they’re just having fun, and the results speak for themselves.

Dream Collaborations and Shows

When asked who they would love to collaborate with, Jaz threw out an idea that would be a wild ride for fans of both bands. “Tbh I’d froth a RS x Pendulum banger,” she said. Given the high-energy punk vibe of RatSalad and Pendulum’s electronic-infused drum and bass sound, it’s not hard to imagine how the two could create something totally unique.

As for who they would love to open for, Erica’s answer was immediate: “Amyl and the Sniffers.” “My favourite band at the moment who I just saw last weekend for the third time. Best show, best message, best shredders.” Amyl and the Sniffers’ no-nonsense punk energy is the perfect fit for Rat Salad’s approach to live music—both bands share that same unfiltered, unapologetic spirit.

What’s Next for RatSalad?

Looking ahead, RatSalad has big plans. Erica mentioned an upcoming show in Bunbury on February 8th, 2025, alongside their talented friends Noise Abatement and Dullhouse. "We’re also playing Nannup Music Festival, which I’ve always wanted to go to," she said. "It’s such a beautifully curated festival in a stunning part of our state, so that’ll be SICK!" Following that, they’ll head to Adelaide for a couple of shows in April and are even eyeing some European dates in June/July 2025.

When asked about future projects, Jaz gave a nod to album number two, though they’re taking it one step at a time. “Lots and lots of kms, beers, and good times. And hopefully find time to work on album #2.”