Dutch-German trio with a taste for southern heat

Raw Rhythm & Blues · Roots Rock · Swamp Grooves

Members

Harm van Essen – Guitar / Vocals

Nikolas Karolewicz – Bass

Jochem Jorissen – Drums

Harm van Essen playing guitar with La Ratte on Moulin Blues the Netherlands

Bio

La Ratte is a raw, unpolished mix of Rhythm & Blues and roots rock. Since late 2021, the band has thrived on the strong synergy between Harm’s distinctive songwriting, gritty vocals, and fiery guitar work, Jochem’s explosive drumming style, and Nikolas’ old-school bass groove. They draw inspiration from the energy of Texas blues, the hypnotic groove of Mississippi Hill Country blues, and the infectious feel of Louisiana swamp pop. La Ratte delivers a gritty, high-impact live show that is deeply rooted in American roots music.

Nikolas Karolewicz playing upright bass in Roots and Blues Band La Ratte at Moulin Blues in the Netherlands

Highlights

  • High-energy, festival-ready live show

  • Performed at festivals including Moulin Blues, Kwadendamme and Swing Wespelaar

  • Headlined shows at venues such as Patronaat Haarlem, Luxor Live Arnhem, and Nix Enschede

Recent press quote

“The urgency of La Ratte is contagious. They breathe the atmosphere of the blues from Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana, but with a contemporary drive that pushes you forward. La Ratte is ready for the big stages.”

— Music Traveler

more press coverage here:

Press and Reviews

Jochem Jorissen playing upright bass in Roots and Blues Band La Ratte at Moulin Blues in the Netherlands

Photo’s by Karen Raedts