Walt Disco explore endings in their unique style on deliciously dark new single ‘Past Tense’.
The Glasgow-based five-piece – James Potter, Lewis Carmichael, David Morgan, Calum Kennedy and Mashu Harada – have released their new single ‘Past Tense’ (out now) via Los Angeles based singles label IHC 1NFINITY. The track was recorded at Glasgow’s Chem19 studio on a day off during their hectic tour schedule.
Walt Disco have gained a reputation for theatrical live performances and bringing the drama to everything they do and ’Past Tense’ is no exception. They have a tantalizing sound – it’s a definite nod to the gothic end of the 80s New Romantic scale, but it’s also wildly inventive. Much of this is attributable to Potter’s vocal – flamboyantly shifting from crooning like Bryan Ferry to soaring like Marc Almond. Combine this with shimmering synths and post-punk punchiness and you have the perfect blend to create something unique.
“Past Tense is a song that delves into endings”, explains singer Potter. “Whether that be relationships, life, or periods of your life. It is important to take time to fully understand and let yourself feel what you need to feel in these moments.”
The video for ‘Past Tense’ (watch it below) reflects not only the band’s cinematic sound but also the idea of holding onto feelings and being able to let go. It is a stand-alone short film and the latest chapter of the ongoing IHC 1NFINITY universe. The video continues the story of goth couple Drazen and Blaire and opens with Blaire mourning at her boyfriend’s grave. She is visited by a black balloon and clings to it as a representation of Drazen as she continues her life, oblivious to the impact this has on others. I won’t tell you how the story ends as it is a beautifully shot short film and is worth watching. It is a fitting tribute to actor/comedian Gian Molina (Drazen), who tragically passed away in 2016.
Speaking about the video for ‘Past Tense’, the band commented:
“It’s very touching that IHEARTCOMIX found so much meaning in our song that they wanted to use it to soundtrack such a moving tribute to their friend. Although the song was not originally written about grief I think it’s beautiful that IHC found their own meaning in it. That’s one of my favourite things about music, it’s so personal.”
Their musical style may hark back to the 80s, but Walt Disco are a thrilling band for the present tense.
Walt Disco live dates
August
2 – Kent, UK – Neverworld Festival
3 – Inverness, UK – Belladrum Tartan Heart
5 – Portsmouth, UK – Dials Festival at Wedgewood Rooms
October
12 – Manchester, UK – Neighbourhood Festival
17 – Edinburgh, UK – The Mash House
18 – Dundee, UK – Church
19 – Aberdeen, UK – Drummonds
This article was written for Backseat Mafia.