The Walkmen were riding a wave of recognition around the time of their live recording of "The Rat" at Stereo in Glasgow on November 30, 2007. This performance came just after the release of their critically acclaimed album, "A Hundred Miles Off," which had dropped earlier that year. It's fascinating to think about how the energy of their live shows often mirrored the raw intensity found on that album. "The Rat," a signature track, showcases the band’s distinctive sound, blending a sense of urgency with poetic melancholy—perfect for their raucous live performances. Fans often connect with the emotional weight in their music, making songs like "The Rat" a crowd favorite. Interestingly, the evening not only highlighted the band's knack for energizing performances but also marked a pivotal moment in their career, as they were gaining a loyal following in Europe, helping to solidify their status as one of the standout indie bands of that era.