"Rattus is a punk band from Vilppula. In addition to Finland, the band has toured frequently abroad, where they gained a cult reputation. The group, which ended in 1988, was reassembled in the early 2000s. Jarkko Marjamäki (Jake) and Veli-Pekka Hyvärinen (Vellu) founded Rattus in 1978. At first, they played English-speaking covers for their own amusement. Jake's brother Tomi Marjamäki (Tomppa) joined a few weeks later. Rattus' name was taken from The Stranglers' 'Rattus Norvegicus' album. Anssi Nieminen aka 'Annikki' was chosen as the singer.
In 1980, Rattus' first seven-inch single Khomeini Rock was released, which was printed in 200 copies. The record was released by their own label Hilipili records. The B-side song was 'Munkipunk'. The next recording took place in early 1981: Fucking Disco was also released on Hilipili in 300 copies. 50 went to sale in England. The next four recordings were released by a real record company, Poko Rekords from Tampere. In 1981, Poko released the 12" 'Rattus On Rauta'. In 1982 the 7" EP 'Restricted Nuclear War' was released (also pressed on Brazilian and French labels). In 1983 the 12" 'Toilet Burst' was released, as well as the next 12" 'Religion Is A Risk' in 1984, of which Pushead drew both covers.
In 1985 Rattus began to turn more into metal music and was influenced by Venom, Slayer, and Metallica. In 1986, Annikki resigned as a singer and was replaced by Jake. In December 1986, Kari joined the band as the second guitarist. The band’s gigs in Denmark and Sweden in 1987 were disappointing, the metal line didn’t bite and the audience wanted old material. In 1988, the band released the 7" 'Win Or Die' (preceded by the LP 'Stolen Life'). Rattus performed their last concerts in February 1988 in Jyväskylä. They reformed in 2001 and still play out and record sporadically."
