In 2023, Riding Easy Records signed White Boy and The Average Rat Band (WBATARB) for a second official reissue of their self-titled debut album. Originally spearheaded by Mike Matney in the early 1980s, this underground record held a near-mythical status among rock and metal enthusiasts, celebrated for its raw energy and DIY aesthetic. The upcoming reissue is more than just a trip down memory lane—it reignites conversations about the band’s influence and underscores Matney’s enduring impact on rock music.
The original WBATARB album, released in 1980, didn’t receive widespread recognition upon its release. Pressed in limited quantities and distributed primarily within regional circles, it became a rare find for collectors. Over time, its unique fusion of hard rock, heavy metal, and Southern rock elements earned it a devoted following. The album was often cited as a hidden gem of early heavy metal, embodying the spirit of grassroots rock movements.
The first official reissue of the album was released by Heaven And Hell Records in 2019 under a two-year contract. Prior to these official reissues, the album had been bootlegged by two separate record companies, leading to unauthorized copies circulating among collectors.
Riding Easy Records took on the project in 2023, planning to release a second official reissue this year. Their approach involved preserving the album’s authenticity while making it accessible to a new generation of listeners. The reissue process included remastering the original tracks, carefully enhancing their clarity without compromising their gritty, unpolished character. The label worked closely with audio engineers and archivists to ensure that the remastered version retained the raw sound that had made the album special in the first place.
The reissue also includes updated packaging and liner notes that offer insights into the band’s history and Matney’s creative vision. For longtime fans, this attention to detail is a testament to the respect the label holds for WBATARB’s legacy. The previous reissue by Heaven And Hell Records was met with enthusiasm, and Riding Easy Records’ involvement has further solidified the album’s reputation.
The album’s enduring appeal, with its gritty guitar riffs and unapologetic energy, still stands out even in a modern music landscape dominated by polished production. Tracks like “Neon Warriors” and “The Prophet” have been singled out as timeless anthems that resonate with listeners. Critics and fans alike have noted that the album captures a rawness often missing from contemporary rock, making it a refreshing listen for those seeking something authentic.Beyond critical acclaim, the reissue has sparked renewed interest in Matney’s work. Social media buzz and online forums have been filled with discussions about the album’s significance, with many listeners sharing their excitement at finally being able to hear a record they had long heard about but never accessed. Some fans have even shared stories of discovering WBATARB through word of mouth or rare vinyl copies passed down through generations.
Sales of the album’s reissues have exceeded expectations, particularly for a niche project of this kind. The demand highlights a growing interest in revisiting underground rock classics and an appetite for music that breaks away from mainstream conventions. The upcoming reissue by Riding Easy Records is expected to build on this momentum and introduce WBATARB to an even broader audience.
A Legacy Renewed
The 2023 signing of White Boy and The Average Rat Band by Riding Easy Records ensures that their legendary debut album will continue to reach new audiences. By bringing this underground classic back into the spotlight, the label is helping cement Matney’s contributions to rock music for generations to come. This revival is a reminder that great music doesn’t always come from the mainstream—sometimes, it’s found in the corners of history, waiting for someone to rediscover it and share it with the world.
