I’m on such an ’80’s kick this week (apologies to everyone who hates the ’80’s but also, like, leave the site because the ’80s aren’t going anywhere). Got this goth-pop tune from Glasgow’s Walt Disco, who is easily a band that you should know about, and follow.
The track and video for “Past Tense” follow the band’s explosive, moody goth anthem ‘Strange to Know Nothing.’ Recorded at Glasgow’s Chem19 studio (home of seminal Scottish indie label Chemikal Underground (Mogwai, Arab Strap)), the track was completed on a day off during the band’s busy touring schedule. Probably while most of us were sleeping.
Destined for greatness, vocalist James Potter (any Harry Potter fans out there?) brings forth soaring vocals sit atop a solid Blue Nile-esque groove which oozes grandeur – this is Walt Disco at both their most epic and most vulnerable.
“Past Tense is a song that delves into endings. 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.” – James Potter
The video for Walt Disco’s ‘Past Tense’ deals with coming to terms with the death of a friend, and follows the journey of the protagonist becoming forced to come to terms with the reality of the situation and let go. Directed and written by Franki Chan & Jesus Antonio Rivera that picks up the story of the goth couple, Drazen and Blaire, several months after their last appearance. Serving as both a tribute to their friend and actor/comedian Gian Molina (Drazen), who tragically passed away in 2016, and a closure for his character inside the story, the video was a labor of love for all involved.
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.
Watch the stunning short-film for the tune “Past Tense” below, and catch Walt Disco on tour if you’re in the UK.
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