The Bankes Brothers turn burnout and uncertainty into bold, high-energy rock with “Risk It All,” a raw anthem about chasing creative dreams.
Victoria, BC rock band The Bankes Brothers confront burnout, uncertainty, and the courage to make bold choices on their new single, “Risk It All.” The energetic track combines punchy guitar work, classic rock influences, and an urgent sense of movement. It captures the frustration of trying to build a stable life while protecting a creative ambition.
For the band, the song reflects the realities of pursuing music as a career. Nelson Bankes says the group always dreamed of working in music. However, the reality often involves long periods of waiting and uncertainty.
The members have also taken on other jobs to support themselves while pursuing the band. That pressure can quickly lead to exhaustion. “Risk It All” turns that shared experience into a reminder to take control of your own direction.
From a Shower Melody to a Full-Band Explosion
The song began with a simple idea. Nelson started humming a melody in the shower and realized he had the foundation for a new track.
The band developed that idea into a more explosive arrangement. Rhythm guitar, bass, and drums established the song’s foundation early in the process. However, the recording still needed another element to bring it to life. Guitarist Carson provided exactly that.
Carson had been recovering from a severe bout of the flu during the session. He spent much of the time bundled up on a couch in the corner of the room. Once he picked up his guitar, however, he quickly found the missing piece.
Within just a few takes, Carson created the lead guitar part that became one of the track’s defining moments. His contribution gave the song an extra burst of energy and helped complete its arrangement.
A Classic Rock Spirit With Modern Edge
“Risk It All” also takes the band in a slightly different musical direction. The Bankes Brothers draw inspiration from the attitude and sound of 1950s rock.
The result blends vintage rock character with the band’s contemporary indie sensibility. Punchy instrumentation keeps the track moving, while its raw production preserves its live-wire energy.
The song also builds toward a memorable closing moment. During the final vocal section, the band pushes the title into an intense scream. Nelson recorded the part after several takes. The early-morning session had left everyone feeling tired, and he noticed the room starting to lose energy. On the next take, he committed fully to the vocal.
The scream immediately snapped everyone back to attention. The band finished the session with a round of martinis, giving the recording an appropriately celebratory ending.
With “Risk It All,” The Bankes Brothers turn the frustrations of pursuing music into something loud, restless, and ultimately joyful. The song embraces uncertainty while encouraging listeners to make their own bold moves.
Fans can stream “Risk It All” now and experience The Bankes Brothers’ high-energy new rock anthem.
Press Release
