Alternative pop-rock quintet If Walls Could Talk aim to create an experience for their fans through their theatrical sound and engaging live performances. In 2016 the band released their debut EP, What Would They Say? , which features tracks that are structured like a classical aria while others blend elements of rock, rap, and pop. The band recently announced a re-release, titled What Would They Say? Deluxe Edition, which is set for release on June 8th, 2018 and includes new tracks as well as three revisioned acoustic tracks. Today, If Walls Could Talk has partnered with Punchland for the premiere of their brand new music video for the band’s latest single, Sleepless.
If Walls Could Talk is an alternative pop rock group from Detroit, MI, comprised of Anthony Berkseth (Vocals), Nick DiStefano (Guitar), Steven Fronrath (Keys), Zack Spoutz (Drums), and Anthony White (Bass). With a theatrical sound and live performance inspired by acts including Coldplay, Panic! At The Disco, and Imagine Dragons, If Walls Could Talk aim to create an experience for their fans. The band’s name stems from the idea that in a sense they relate to metaphorical walls, not because of what they do, but because of what they cannot do: speak. We have voices, but through music the band is able to do so by telling stories in ways that are meaningful enough to convey how they feel.
We managed to catch up with the band as they talk about their latest single and more!
How has the release of Sleepless gone down with fans so far?
(Tony) It’s been absolutely amazing! We’ve been playing the song at live shows for a while now so our fan are really excited to have a physical representation of the song with our latest video. And they love it. I can’t tell you how many Snapchats and messages we’ve been receiving about its release.
Can you tell something about the music video no one else knows?
(Tony) A few years back, I broke my pinky and it randomly sticks out apart from the other fingers. There is a specific moment in this video where it’s really noticeable – 1:54. It’s a very bizarre fact but something interesting to look out for.
How pumped are you for the release of What Would They Say? Deluxe Edition?
(Nick) There are songs on this new EP that we all have been dying to get out there so we are all so extremely stoked for this. It’s going to be exciting to see how people react to it and we’ll be anxiously anticipating it.
What’s your favourite track from this album?
(Tony) It’s hard to pick favorites. These songs are all so meaningful and intentionally written. “A Rose In The Sky” is one of the most moving track on the album and has a long history with the band. I think that I’m most excited for that one because it means so much to us.
If you could work with any band on a new song, who would it be and why?
(Tony) Twenty One Pilots. They are unique, one of our inspirations, and know how to connect to their audience. I feel like working with them on a new song would entail focusing on creating sincere music for our listeners: something we always strive to do.
What’s the alternative music scene like in Detroit at the moment?
(Nick) If I had one word to describe it, I would say it’s definitely a community. We all know each other and come to each other’s shows. I feel like paying for tickets is obsolete since we all just ticket swap. It’s really nice to know that we all have each others’ backs. Not to mention, the music created here is amazing. I have met some of the most incredible artists I’ve known here in the Detroit music scene.
What was the first ever gig you went to?
(Tony) The first live concert I went to was to see Coldplay during their Viva la Vida tour. It was actually a very inspiring show. I remember going home that night and writing a song because of the experience. They really know how to play for a crowd and that has been something that I have carried with me since that performance.
What do you get up to in your spare time when not working on music?
(Tony) I’m a dancer and a writer. I basically love all different forms of art and expression. I feel like there is always a perfect means of showing how you feel. Dancing allows me to move through my feelings and make them physical. Writing allows me to creatively express what I am thinking and feeling in the moment.