Ratking Members, Gear & Sound

Ratking is a dynamic experimental hip hop collective originating from New York City. Formed in 2012, the group initially consisted of Patrick "Wiki" Morales (vocals), MC Hak (vocals), and Sporting Life (production). They quickly made a name for themselves with their gritty, avant-garde approach to hip hop, characterized by dense, abstract lyrics and innovative production. Ratking's music falls under the genre of experimental hip hop, often described as "escape room" for its unconventional, boundary-pushing sound. Over time, Ratking has evolved, especially after Hak's departure, continuing as a duo with Wiki and Sporting Life at the helm.

Ratking's sonic landscape is marked by its raw, gritty, and often chaotic vibe. The group blends lo-fi aesthetics with experimental electronics, crafting a sound that is both abrasive and immersive. Sporting Life's production style is pivotal, utilizing gear like the Akai MPC 1000 and Roland SP-555 Creative Sampler Workstation to create dense, textured beats. Their music often features heavy sampling, layered with effects from devices like the DigiTech PDS-1002 Two Second Digital Delay, which adds to the rugged and unpredictable nature of their tracks. This sonic tapestry provides a foundation for Wiki's gritty, narrative-driven vocals, resulting in a sound that is both confrontational and thought-provoking, resonating with fans seeking something beyond traditional hip hop boundaries.