Some songs invite only passive listening; others demand active participation in their emotional architecture. Portland quartet Risley’s “Walls” falls decidedly into the latter category—a composition that builds intricate sonic scaffolding to explore both physical and psychological confinement.
The track opens with remarkable spatial awareness—interlaced guitar melodies from Michael Deresh and Jaime Hazerian creating immediate dimensional depth. This textural approach establishes “Walls” as music that occupies physical space rather than merely filling time. Tyler Rachal’s bass provides essential gravitational pull, anchoring these atmospheric elements while allowing them necessary freedom.
Most immediately striking is the percussion contribution from guest drummer Dave Abbruzzese (Pearl Jam). His rhythmic approach brings disciplined propulsion that perfectly complements the more ethereal elements, creating productive tension between forward momentum and contemplative pause. This balance reflects bandleader Michael Deresh’s deep roots in Portland’s indie scene—including his tenure in Tea for Julie and role founding PDXPOPNOW!—while incorporating fresh energy from Hazerian’s post-rock background with Arms for Tripoli.
Lyrically, “Walls” explores confinement and liberation through both personal and cosmic lenses. Opening declarations about needing “to move, to run” establish immediate claustrophobia, while observations about galaxies and particles expand the perspective to universal scale. This shift creates fascinating thematic counterpoint to the sonic elements—expansive musical atmosphere containing lyrics that repeatedly question containment and boundaries.
The song reaches its philosophical peak with the repeated assertion “Even if it all means nothing…How you’re gonna feel means something.” This existential pivot transforms potential nihilism into emotional validation—suggesting that subjective experience retains value even within vast cosmic indifference. The delivery of these lines with increasing intensity throughout the track creates emotional progression that parallels the instrumental build.
As the lead single from their forthcoming album ‘Umbra Penumbra,’ “Walls” positions Risley at an interesting creative crossroads—honoring their dreamy indie rock foundations while pushing into more philosophically ambitious territory. The title itself references the shadow cast during an eclipse, suggesting interest in transitional states and the interplay between light and darkness.
For a band named after a cat, Risley demonstrates remarkable human insight on “Walls,” crafting music that functions simultaneously as atmospheric escape and invitation to deeper contemplation. Their upcoming KEXP Live Session should further cement their status as worthy torchbearers of Portland’s rich indie rock legacy.
B-Side Guys 
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