Anberlin

Interview & Article by Brittany Ormiston

Photo by: Victor Maldonado

Throughout the last two decades, alternative-rock band Anberlin have had an undeniable bond that only grows stronger with time. Their full-length album, Vega, is a testament to their friendship and appreciation for their dedicated, unwavering fans. The tracklist includes their first single off the record, ‘Walk Alone,’ which covers the heavy topic of mental health and the pain associated with witnessing a loved one incessantly struggle. “If you ever feel you've gone too far // Look back and you'll see me running” depicts endless compassion, and being devoted to walking alongside those you love. Anberlin has taken Vega out on the road this summer for their 20 Years of Tears amphitheater tour consisting of 56 dates. The tour is hosted by Hawthorne Heights, and Cartel, Armor For Sleep, and many more bands are joining in on the celebrations. There's nothing more to say other than Anberlin is unstoppable, and all of us are here for it.

Your newest single ‘Walk Alone’ is heavily focused on mental health and how difficult it is to witness someone you love struggling. How did this track come to be? What was it like writing the emotional lyrics? 

Anberlin: “The music came about from a demo that we had been tooling around with for a while. We had tried a few different approaches and finally got it to a place we loved. Everyone in the band has dealt with challenges pertaining to mental health, and the mental health of our loved ones. It’s great to see that the topic is nowhere near as stigmatized as it was in the past, and people are ready and willing to talk about it. I think this song connects on that level of not just dealing with your own mental health, but helping those you love as well.”

The music video for ‘Walk Alone’ is lighthearted and comical. Explain the vision behind the music video, and why you chose a playful theme despite the vulnerable lyrics.  

Anberlin: “We had the idea and it sounded fun, but it was a bit scary because we have never really shown that side of us outside of interviews or BTS stuff. It was an absolute blast, and while the lyrics may be a serious matter, the spirit of the song is very hopeful. I think the juxtaposition of the 2 emphasizes the hopeful and lighthearted part of it all.”

From Blueprints For The Black Market to present day, what are two to three things you have learned in regards to crafting your music and songwriting?

Anberlin: “We’ve definitely learned to trust ourselves more, and to lean on people we trust and whos opinions we value. We’ve learned not to overthink, and if something feels right, leave it alone. We have also found the value, and honestly, the fun in just ad-libbing while we are tracking. If something spontaneously pops into your head, try it. It’s been very freeing.”

Describe The Vega Era and your upcoming album in three words.

Anberlin: “Brand new energy.”

Who are several artists you consider to be the blueprint, and the reason why you pursued music?

Anberlin: “It has changed a lot over the years as I’ve seen bands grow, come and go, etc. Overall, I always loved the DIY of punk bands I listened to as a kid, the longevity of bands that keep all things equal amongst members, and bands that have grown and adapted with changes in the industry.”

You have been a band for two decades now! Despite all the twists and turns, what is the secret to keeping a positive relationship among band members, and maintaining the bond you formed all those years ago?

Anberlin: “It’s been relatively easy for us. We consider each other family. You can get annoyed, mad, frustrated with family, but it’s going to pass because you love each other. We’ve been through just about every kind of high and low together, so whatever issues may come, we have that understanding, that we will deal with it together and we will be fine.”

Tell us a few aspects of your live show fans can look forward to experiencing.

Anberlin: “We have always had an energetic live show, but I think one thing friends and fans alike have told me recently is that they can tell we love it. They can see that we are having the time of our lives, and that Matty is feeling it too. That kind of positivity is infectious.” 

What are a few memories you have had on tour so far that you plan to treasure forever?

Anberlin: “There are far too many to single out, but overall just being able to see the world has been my favorite part. England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, Sweden, Netherlands, Austria, Russia, Africa, Cuba, it’s all been amazing.”