Ronboy and Matt Berninger Dive Into Their “Unhinged” Collab ‘Disaster’: “It Goes Off the Deep End – We’re All a Mess”

Explore the raw emotional depths of Ronboy and Matt Berninger’s latest collab ‘Disaster,’ where vulnerability and ferocity collide in a haunting musical journey.

When Two Worlds Collide: Ronboy & Matt Berninger’s Bold New Sound

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when two distinct creative forces merge into one electrifying musical experience, Ronboy and Matt Berninger’s new single ‘Disaster’ is your answer. This haunting track, released on August 15, marks a daring step for LA-based artist Ronboy (aka Julia Laws), who shifts toward a heavier, more intense soundscape while still embracing her trademark emotional vulnerability.

Matt Berninger, the iconic voice behind The National, lends his signature brooding style, blending seamlessly with Ronboy’s hypnotic expressions. Their shared history runs deep—Ronboy contributed to Berninger’s Get Sunk album and currently tours as part of his solo live band, making their collaboration on ‘Disaster’ feel both natural and electric.

“Ronboy has a way of blending tenderness and ferocity like no other artist I know. So happy she let me into this incredible song.” — Matt Berninger

The Heartbeat of ‘Disaster’: A Conversation in Song

The song itself feels like an intimate conversation, layered with emotional complexity and raw honesty. Ronboy’s repeated mantra, “I’m a disaster,” captures a universal feeling of vulnerability. Meanwhile, Berninger’s parts offer a kind of cynical older brother voice, adding a compelling tension.

The duo reflects on the song’s dual nature: it can be both intensely personal and resonate on a grander, global scale.

“The call and response you and I have in this song... it’s personal; it feels like a big brother. Then it also feels like you go off the deep end. We’re all a mess.” — Ronboy

This tension between intimacy and chaos paints a vivid portrait of mental turmoil that many of us navigate daily, making ‘Disaster’ a compelling anthem for these times.

Crafting the Sound: From Keys to Basslines and Beyond

Ronboy shares how her writing process has evolved since her 2022 release ‘Pity To Love’. She’s moved away from composing primarily on keys and synths to starting with basslines, a shift that brings a fresh energy and urgency to ‘Disaster’. She also admits the mood driving her recent songwriting has changed—from sadness to a more fiery anger.

Berninger relates closely to this evolution. The focus on bass and drums rather than traditional chord progressions opens new creative doors for melody and rhythm, giving their music a freeing, raw edge.

“I found that incredibly inspiring and liberating. You feel like you’re free. No chords, nothing.” — Matt Berninger

Together, they’ve incubated a sound that feels spontaneous and visceral—melodies born from the primal pulse of the rhythm section, allowing their vocals to soar with emotion and unpredictability.

On Tour Together: A Unique Musical Bond

Ronboy not only opens for Berninger on his solo tour but also plays in his band, making their live connection something truly special. They recently debuted ‘Disaster’ live in North America and are gearing up for a UK and European tour starting in Dublin on August 22.

Their chemistry extends beyond the music. Berninger jokes about sitting in the wings during Ronboy’s set, “lubricating and getting psyched up,” while Ronboy appreciates how their performances flow seamlessly—a rare organic transition from opening act to headliner.

They even dream of future shows where they perform ‘Disaster’ together live, with dramatic lighting and shared stage moments—Kubrick and Scorsese style, as Berninger playfully puts it.

Behind the Scenes: Tour Life, Nerves & Mischief

Touring isn’t just about the music—it’s the moments backstage and the little rituals that keep artists grounded. From pre-show nerves to post-show meals, Ronboy and Berninger share candid insights into their routines.

Berninger laughs about how he never thinks about food on stage, despite craving a burrito sometimes. He admits to the familiar butterflies and knots in his stomach that take a song or two to settle during a performance. Ronboy, meanwhile, plans her setlist strategically to keep nerves in check.

“I’ve long believed that when you fuck up, you should cherish and own those moments. They’re the best parts of live shows... People remember those shows.” — Matt Berninger

The duo laughs over the inevitability of live mishaps—Berninger’s scratched glasses, forgotten lyrics, and those “oops” moments that turn into memorable live experiences. It’s clear their playful camaraderie is the secret sauce to their enduring collaboration.

Making the Video: DIY Spirit and Minor Injuries

The music video for ‘Disaster’ was filmed mostly on their phones, capturing a raw DIY energy perfect for the song’s vibe. Both artists share stories of minor injuries on set—Berninger hitting his head on the ceiling, Ronboy taking a light bump with a shovel.

Despite the scrapes and bruises, their sense of humor shines through, reinforcing the fun and unpolished charm of the project.

Looking Ahead: Secrets, Surprises, and More Music

As they prepare for the upcoming tour, Ronboy and Berninger tease “secrets up our sleeves” and ambitious plans involving robotics and stagecraft that hint at an innovative live experience. The excitement is palpable—they’re more than ready to hit the road and share this vibrant new chapter with fans.

Final Thoughts: A Collaboration Years in the Making

What stands out most about ‘Disaster’ is the years of friendship and shared creative sparks behind it. Four or five years in the making, this collaboration is a testament to the power of artistic connection and evolution. It’s a song that balances tenderness and chaos, sadness and anger, all wrapped in a sonic landscape that’s as intense as it is compelling.

FAQs

• How did Ronboy and Matt Berninger first meet?
  They visually met during lockdown playing trivia on Zoom, and their collaboration grew from there.
• What’s unique about ‘Disaster’ compared to Ronboy’s previous work?
  Ronboy shifted from writing mostly on keys to starting with basslines, bringing a heavier, angrier sound.
• Does Matt Berninger usually write melodies to bass and drums?
  For Get Sunk and this collaboration, yes—Berninger finds freedom in writing to minimal drum and bass tracks.
• Are Ronboy and Matt Berninger touring together soon?
  Yes, they’re touring the UK and Europe starting August 22, with Ronboy opening and performing in Berninger’s band.
• Was filming the ‘Disaster’ video challenging?
  It was DIY and fun, though both artists had minor injuries while shooting.

For a special way to celebrate this incredible collaboration, shop your favorite album cover posters including Disaster at our store Architeg Prints. Bring the energy of Ronboy and Matt Berninger’s music straight to your walls!