Ratt Cancel European Shows

Hard rockers Ratt have been forced to cancel all of their European shows for this summer, including a slot at Download this Sunday, as frontman Stephen Pearcy needs to undergo a hernia operation.

The band, who released the excellent Infestation earlier this year, were due to play in London and in Wolverhampton next week and were due to play on the main stage of the Download Festival on Sunday.

A statement issued by the band said

"Ratt have been forced to cancel their upcoming European tour dates. Vocalist Stephen Pearcy will be undergoing urgent hernia surgery this week. The band regrets missing the European dates on the heels of the release of their first album in 11 years, Infestation, which enjoyed a high chart debut in European territories.

"Ratt shares this disappointment with all their European fans who planned to attend the shows at Sweden Rock, Sauna Open Air Festival, UK Download, Hellfest, Grasspop and Gods of Metal as well as their other dates. The band is looking into rescheduling as many of the shows as possible.

"Pearcy's doctors anticipate a full recovery in time for Ratt’s North American touring schedule, which includes a run with The Scorpions, beginning in July and running through September.”