Music video analysis #9- The Cure- Just Like Heaven

Music video analysis #9

Act: The Cure

Track: ‘Just like heaven’

Year: 1987

Director: Tim Pope

Genre: New wave/ Gothic rock
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3nPiBai66M

Main audience: M 30+ Audience from the 80’s + Goth youths.

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Relationship between the lyrics+ visuals: The song’s lyrical matter is dark as it deals with a lover who has gone away or died to the vocalist. This is reflected throughout the video as Robert Smith acts out actions from what he is singing. A prime example of this would be when he hugs himself in sadness replicating what he and his lover used to do with the line “she threw her arms around my neck”. Another example of lyrical synergy with the video would be when Smith wakes up in the morning on the cliff side after his fantasy and sings the line “Daylight whips me into shape, I must have been asleep for days”, and later “I found myself alone, alone, alone above a raging sea.”. Towards the later part of the video the performance becomes more of a narrative driven production due to the fewer frequency of performance shots.

Genre characteristics: The genre characteristics are upheld in this video to an extent. A prime example of this would be as the band members are dressed in a gothic manner of black clothing and make-up. The video is also a performance based production (conventional of rock genres) however it does have some moments of narrative including the sections where the lead vocalist (Robert Smith) dances with his deceased lover and the looks over the cliff to the sea bellow in a melon-collie fashion (Conventional of gothic music).

Performance/Narrative/ Concept: The video is almost entirely a performance act with some moments of narrative during instrumental sections of the song/video. This performance shows the respective band members playing their instruments on a hilltop with a grief stricken Robert Smith (Vocalist). The concept of the video is Robert reminiscing on his lover and how she felt “just like heaven” to him. This performance with a small amount of narrative effectively reinforces the lyrical content. This video is predominantly a performance video, however towards the end of the song the video becomes more of a narrative performance with Smith’s vocals synergising with the visual content more accurately.

Linear/closed narrative: The video has a closed narrative has it is a recollection of a past event as evidenced in the lyricisms. This reflects into the video as Smith seems to have the unique experience of hallucinations of his past lover and waking up alone on a Cliffside in the morning.

Looking/ mode of address: The band members do not ever look at the audience for the reason that the message/ story being told is more of a recollection of a personal experience and there is no real message for the audience to witness other than the tragic circumstances of Robert Smith’s story.

Star treatment: At the start of the video the respective band members are all given equal time on the camera, however as the video progresses it becomes clearer to the audience that the story belongs to the vocalist as he acts out more and more of what he sings. The production ends with the sole protagonist being Robert Smith.

Representations: There are representations of youth in this video due to the young band members. They are filled with angst and are emotionless throughout the video. Another example of youth would be Smith’s dancing with his lover at night.

Pace/ Any variation of pace: The video maintains a steady pace along with the music itself all the way through and there are few disruptions other than the middle eighth synthesiser solo which is purely instrumental.

Shot variety: Throughout the video there are numerous different shots including that of long shots, close ups, medium-long shots, low angle shots and birds eye shots.

Long shot

Close up

Medium-long shot

Low angle shot

Birds eye shot

 FX: There are next to little CGI effects in the video due to the fact CGI was a commodity at this time for music videos, however there are some used to show Smith’s ghostly lover and a green screen looks to have been used for the backgrounds of the performance area in both day and night time settings.

Location/ Mise-En-Scene: There is only one location used in this video, but in two different variations. The location of a hilltop Cliff-side is the main location and the entire video is based around this location. In terms of lighting, the video uses mostly low-key lighting until the end where more high-key lighting is used in the outdoor space. The costumes used are the groups gothic black clothing and makeup. (Robert Smith has white make-up and red lipstick on).

Sub-culture: The sub-culture of goths is represented in this video due to the groups gothic clothing and make-up in addition to the Mellon-collie lyrical content of the music.

Elements linked to your idea: I could employ the gothic influences from this production.

Music video analysis #8- Woodkid - Run Boy Run

Music video analysis #8

Act: Woodkid

Track: ‘Run Boy Run’

Year: 2013

Director: Yoann Lemoinen (Woodkid)

Genre: Experimental/ Neofolk

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmc21V-zBq0

Main audience: M and F 18-30+ Artistic audience.

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Relationship between visuals+ Lyrics: Throughout the video the lyrics and visuals are directly related and the vocalist seems to almost narrate the narrative. The video depicts as the chorus sings, a boy running from what seems to be a 1950’s American building with the expression and posture of fear. This is reinforced when the vocalist sings “They’re trying to catch you”, we immediately realize the boy is running for his life. The narrator/ vocalist later tells the boy to “run and disappear in the trees” and “break off from society” and with this, several humanoid tree-like monsters spring from the ground and equip the boy with a spiked helmet, shield and sword. After this point the vocalist does not speak, but instead the music is in direct synchronisation with the video in terms of atmosphere and narrative.    

Genre characteristics: The experimental genre makes for endless possibilities and this is reflected in the video with several extraordinary and supernatural events such as the spawning of tree creatures and rock golems being led by a little boy dressed in post-war clothing. Another example of this genre characteristic would be the fact that the video is shot in complete noire style, this connotes a certain level of artistry and elegance to the overall production. In terms of sound this video hosts a variety of both diegetic and non-diegetic sound which is highly unconventional of most music videos in existence but would be acceptable in the experimental genre.

Performance/Narrative/concept: This video is entirely powered by a narrative and niche concept. There are no performance elements to the video due to the artist not being a band, nor is the music involved with material instruments (For example, guitar, drums etc). The concept is a boy from post war America running away from society in fear, arming himself with sword and shield and summoning an army of monsters and attacking a city (with 50’s architecture similar to where he came from). This is a rather abstract concept and would be acceptable within the experimental genre of music.

Linear/ Closed narrative: The narrative is closed in the sense that there seems to be a definite start and ending point to the story. An example of this would be the fact that the boy runs away from his belligerents at the start with nothing but his clothes, but by the end of the video he is transformed and is leading an army against what would seem to be the people he first ran away from (Judging by the similar architecture of the buildings).

Looking/ mode of address: Throughout the video there is very little recognition towards any kind of audience even during close-ups of the child’s face (where he seems to be looking out of the frame), however this is due to the disconnected state of the narrative from reality or the music (performance wise).

Star treatment: There is a considerable star treatment set upon the boy protagonist. This is due to the fact the story unfolding strictly belongs to him. This star treatment even stretches so far as the song’s name “Run boy run” is dedicated to him. This star treatment is evident due to the extended camera time on the boy and the various close-ups of his character throughout the production.

Representations: There are representations of youth with the presence of the boy and his troubles and eventual strength.

Pace/ Any variation of pace: The song remains fairly consistent throughout however slows down during the section of the song/video where the boy jumps into the air and is almost propelled into the heavens, it is thought that the music slows down at this point to indicate a more tender side to the narrative and perhaps connotes a more ethereal or godly element to the video due to the clouds being shown in the sky with piercing light coming through the clouds.

Shot variety: Throughout the video there are a plethora of different shots used including that of long shots, low angle shots, high angle shots close ups, medium-long shots and extreme long shots.

Long shot

Low angle shot

High angle shot

Close up

Medium-long shot

Extreme long shot

 FX: The entire video has been edited in black and grey colours this is a trademark of the director’s videos and is highly recognizable to most audiences. In addition to this a surprising amount of practical effects are used in conjunction with the boy actor. A prime example of this would be the tree and stone monsters and the splinters that come off of their charge. This could very well have been edited into the video after filming however it looks highly authentic. The video incorporates more CGI later in the video with the addition of a pirate ship, metropolis utopia like city and dark clouds.

Sword, shield and helm.

Location/Mise-En-Scene: The video begins with a small isolated 1950’s like building in the middle of a mountain-range. In the corner of this frame we see the boy running away. Throughout the rest of the video we witness the boy running across a countryside landscape featuring rocks, dirt and trees. In addition to this location, we are also seen brief shots of menacing 1950’s esc buildings in the form of low and high-angle shots revealing their significance. In terms of lighting, there is a significant over-haul of low-key lighting and due to the noire film style of this video the lighting is minimal at best. The high-key lighting we are shown however comes from the city and the skies. The boy wears a costume of that of a post-war (2) school boy, with clogs, a felt jacket and shorts. The combination of formality and the strangeness of the monsters is an artistic direction that would be highly conventional of the experimental genre. As for props, the boy is armed with a sword, shield and helmet by the end of the video with connotations of medieval times. The boy also has a leather backpack on his back for the entirety of the video, which could mean he is fleeing school or an institution.

Directors’ style: The director (and performer) uses his staple directing style with the use of the noire colour scheme and deep dark colours throughout the video. His use of combining the normal with the absurd makes for a highly surreal effect on the audience and mixed with the music makes way for a powerful final product.

Elements linked to your idea: What I liked most from this video was the noire style of the visuals and how this created a unique dynamic.    

Music video analysis #7- The Stone Roses- I Wanna Be Adored

Music video analysis #7

Act: The Stone Roses

Track: ‘I Wanna Be Adored’

Year: 1989

Genre: Indie Rock

Link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4D2qcbu26gs

Main audience: M and F 15-25 + Socially mobile teens (16+).            

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Genre characteristics: The genre characteristics for the genre of indie rock are embodied in this video. With the low-budget production and psychedelic influences in this video there is much which is reflective of indie rock. In many ways the simplicity of this video is highly conventional of the genre and is all in relation to the ‘going back basics’ notion of independent music. As well as psychedelic visuals, the video also shows the band playing the music with their respective instruments which is highly conventional of the rock genre.

Performance/ narrative/ concept: The production showcases the band walking through a desert and performing in a montage style. The video is filled with superimposition and the psychedelic purple colour.  There is little narrative in the production due to the easy and relaxed feel the video has to it.

Performance style: The style of performance in this video is that of a slower paced tempo. The slower movements of the band members indicates this. Much of the slowing down has been achieved through after effects, however many of the movements are indeed just performed slower than the conventional rock music performance.

Looking/ mode of address: The mode of address in this video is slightly vacant due to the emphasis on the music and desire for no star treatment to be had (Conventional of Indie music). However the viewers are often looked at by Ian Brown (Lead vocalist) when he delivers his vocals.

Star treatment: There is a distinct lack of star treatment in this video due to the nature of the genre of music and style of the band. It is highly unconventional of indie rock bands to have star treatment to any one band member due to the notion that ‘anyone can play music’ in rebellion to glorified stardom. The only one time the star treatment is applied would be in the middle eighth where the band speed up for a small guitar solo and the guitarist (John Squire is given extended time on camera).

Representations: There is the representation of youth as the band members dance and ‘feel the music’ in an artistic way. This representation of youth is reinforced by the clothing the band members wear which are in no way glamorous or expensive. This once again reinforces the idea of the band being ordinary.

Pace+ Variation of pace: The video and song start very slowly with only a few abstract and distorted sounds being heard. This reflects on the video as a distant purple desert is shown and the camera pans across in a slow fashion. However with the introduction of the bass and electric guitar, the song gains significant tempo and this is when the video showcases the respective band members performing and walking through the desert. This pace again changes in the middle eighth when the tempo increases with a short guitar solo, indicated by the extended time the guitarist has in the camera frame. During this section the guitarist is replicated many times and superimposed on the background in three incarnations. After this point the song continues its standard slow to medium paced tempo.

Shot variety: Throughout the video there are a number of different shots including that of long shots, medium-long shots, low angle shots, and an establishing shot.

Long shot of the band

This shot encompasses the entire band and shows the location of the performance. This is an effective shot due to the fact it shows the entire band playing their instruments, and demonstrates unity.

Medium-long shot 

This medium-long shot depicts the bassist performing in front of a faded purple sand dune, in synchronization with the rest of the production.

Low-angled shot

This low-angled shot gives mild star treatment to this band member as it makes the audience look up at said performer. This demonstrates a superiority complex.

Establishing shot

This establishing shot is one of the first shots of the video and accurately demonstrates the area of performance and sets the precedent for the rest of the video.

FX: The video heavily relies on effects. Many of the effects used include that of fade out editing between many of the shots, a purple lens filter, and superimposition of faded band members as well as desert sand dunes. The purple filter that is used over the entirety of the video connotes the realm of psychedelia and other worldly vibes.

Super imposed images around the actual image captured.

Location/ Mise-En-Scene: The locations shown in the video are that of a desert. This location is seen through the superimposed fade behind the band as they perform as well as the shots of the band walking through the desert itself. In terms of lighting, the lighting is mostly low-key however it isn’t so overpowering in either way (Low and high-key lighting). The costumes include that of the band member’s normal clothing of baggy t-shirts and trousers. This ordinary image is highly conventional of the genre and band. The band play with their instruments (Guitars, drum kits, microphone).

Ordinary clothing (Baggy T-shirt and trousers).

Sub-culture: The production demonstrates the sub-culture of indie rock and the ‘Madchester’ scene with the bands baggy clothing and ordinary appearance for the time (Early 90’s). In addition to this there could be allusions to the hippie (Counter-culture) and stoner culture due to the psychedelic and ‘trippy’ visuals.

Directors style: The director has used a slow pace of editing, often slowing down the clips of the band playing and using various fades in between shots which creates a drowsy effect to the video in addition to simple shots and straightforward ‘no nonsense’ performance.

Elements linked to your idea: Something to consider could be the directors use of simple shots and showcasing of the performance of the band in a straightforward manner.

Music video analysis #6- Chase and Status- No problem

Music video analysis #6

Act: Chase and Status

Track: ‘No problem’

Year: 2011

Director: Dave Baum

Genre: Drum and bass

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPRkYWVinF0

Main audience: M and F 15-25 + frequent clubbers and party enthusiasts.

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Relationship between the visuals+ Lyrics: The visuals in this production are highly related to the lyrical deliverance due to the African influence of the Zimbabwean half of the band. This lyrical deliverance is in a highly distinguishable African accent, and reinforces the fact the performer in the video is dressed in a witch doctor costume, with long hair, black and white skin, a feathered hat and skulls on his head as well as holding a skull in his hand. This primitive element of the Mise-En-Scene (Costume and prop) is greatly linked to the lyricism.

Genre characteristics: The genre of drum and bass come through in some ways in this video, however for the most part the video is unconventional. A usual convention of drum and bass video is a focus on showing people dancing to the music. However in this production the audience is only shown one person for the entirety of the music video. However, equally there are many conventions which are held up effectively in this video such as the fast paced shots, distorted visuals, and strobe lighting reminiscent of a night club.    

Pre-chorus breaking the mode of adress

Performance/ Narrative: Throughout the video there is no clear narrative, but a performance of sorts. This performance showcases the witch doctor dancing and singing to the song. This is a very straightforward concept and is likely due to a low budget. There are a few after effects edited in to compensate for the simplicity of the overall video.

Looking/mode of address: The video showcases the witch doctor singing/ talking to the audience and subsequently always addresses the audience with the lines "But it's a problem for you".

Star treatment: There is a heavy emphasis on this element due to the witch doctor being the sole vocalist in the track and subsequently the only one in the video. 

Representations: There is a distinct representation of African tribalism in this video due to the costume of the witch doctor in synchronization with the African sounding vocals, and instrumentation of bongo drums.

Pace/ Any variation of pace: There is a distinct variation of pace in this video coinciding with the song itself. A prime example of this would be during the start of the song (Verse) the vocalist communicates directly with the audience, however as the build up begins (Pre-chorus) he becomes more distant as if lost in the music and build up. He looks upwards many times and a strobe effect is placed upon him. This again changes during the chorus as the witch doctor breaks out into dance accompanied by many after effects including that of a distorted tearing effect in the filming of the video as well as a variety of different multi-coloured flashes. which is appropriate with the tone of the music (More erratic and energized). This trend of verse, pre-chorus and chorus repeats throughout the video and so does the subsequent performance.

Short variety: There is a very small amount of shot variety due to the ostensible simplicity to this video. Shots used in this video are close up's, medium-long shots and a few high angle shots.

Medium-long shot

This shot shows the upper body of the witch doctor but is highly distorted due to the fast tempo of the video and sporadic dancing of the witch doctor.

Close up

This close up is used several times over during the verse of the song. This is due to the direct addressing of the audience as the witch doctor looks into the lens and sings his lines in the verse.

High angle shot

This high angle shot demonstrates the witch doctor's implied craziness as he smiles at nothing the audience can see. In addition to this the audience are made to feel his craziness due to his closed body language and distant smile and gaze.

After effects use

FX: There are a multitude of effects used in this video to accompany this simple style of the video. These effects include that of visual distortions, transitional editing and colour strobe lighting. A prime example of transitional editing would be towards the start of the video the witch doctors face becomes more obscured by a black shadow. This eventually takes up his whole face and ushers in a new shot.

Location/ Mise-En-Scene: There is only one location used throughout the production however the witch doctor's costume and props are the most important aspect of the video. The luminous coloured outfit equipped with skulls and feathers reinforces the tribal aspect of the costume. In addition to this the video is filled with low-key lighting and is integral to maintaining the ambient atmosphere of a club.

Director style: The director has created a very fast paced video with a seemingly low budget, this has mostly been achieved from an authentic costume design and the use of fast paced editing (Jump cuts) and lighting. The low-key lighting coupled with the strobe and visual distortions creates an energetic performance and a video that could mimic that of a night club scene. 

Elements linked to your idea: A factor to consider could be the low-key lighting, strobe lighting and jump cuts.

      

Music video analysis #5- Beyoncé ft JAY Z- Crazy in love

Music video analysis #5

Act: Beyoncé ft JAY Z

Track: ‘Crazy in love’

Year: 2003

Director: Jake Nava

Genre: RnB/ Pop
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViwtNLUqkMY

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Main audience: F and M 12-40+ Accessible to all due to universally catchy music, relatable lyrics and sex appeal.

Relationship between visuals+ lyrics: The majority of subject matter for this video is the fact that Beyonce is going crazy with love. Not only do the lyrics remind the audience of this, but the video also reinforces this notion due to the nature of the performance. A prime example of this would be when Beyonce is seen to be writhing around in a car in discomfort with the synchronized lyrics of her 'going crazy in love'. This synergy between lyrics and visuals is highly pertinent in the message behind the video due to the fact Beyonce wishes to communicate this fact with the mass audience (listeners/ viewers).   

Genre characteristics: Many of the genre characteristics include that of a female vocalist who harmonizes and sings through most of the song. As well as African American performers (RnB pop music convention). The male gaze is also a tremendous force in this video as it is a large convention of mainstream/ pop music.

Performance/ Narrative: The video does not immediately seem to have a narrative at face value however through a string of performances a narrative can be interpreted through Beyoncé’s ‘descent into craziness’.  Beyoncé performs throughout the video in several different incarnations of herself while offering bold and seductive eye contact with the camera (audience). The first incarnation is her seemingly in control of her actions with her dressed in tight clothing and red high heels. This quickly changes to the second scene with a computer generated transition edit, to her in a paparazzi shoot. Surrounded by cameras, she continues her glances at the audience while singing. This scene is perhaps a reflection of her public life being surrounded by the media and paparazzi. Her next incarnation is her in a side street alley with other backup dancers.

Looking/ mode of address: Throughout the video Beyoncé looks at the audience in either a playful, seductive or bold way. The only exception to this rule would be when she is shown writhing in seeming pain or discomfort in a car.

Star treatment: Beyoncé is always shown to be central or in the middle of the frame due to her being the main artist. The only time this star treatment shifts is when JAY Z enters the scene, to which then Beyoncé is marginally side-lined and is seen as more of an accessory to JAY Z’s star status.

Representations: Representations of gender are highly prevalent in this video due to the provocative clothing worn by most of the female cast in contrast with the black clothing and bling (Gold chains) sported by JAYZ in the latter section of the video. This representation of accessorizing women to men is usually derived from pop music, and Hip-hop.

Male gaze: It could be argued that a large portion of this video is tailored towards a male demographic with the way in which the female proportion of the video is dressed and presented to the audience. A prime example for this notion would be Beyoncé’s revealing clothing and sexually provocative movements. It is highly conventional of pop-music video’s to show sexually provocative imagery (With female stars) and this is firmly held in place in this production.

Shot variety: Throughout the video there are quite a few shots used to bring variety and a quick pace to the production and to stimulate the audience whose attention needs to be grabbed from the very beginning. These shots include that of close ups, medium long shots, long shots, and low-angle shots.

Close up

Not only does the close up shot reinforce the star treatment element to the production which is a large factor to the video but it also demonstrates a seductive side to Beyonce who is highly voyeuristic in this way.

Long shot

This long shot demonstrates an ambiguity and threatening figure who is later revealed to be JAY , who has subsequently lit a fire and caused an explosion in the car behind him.

Low angle shot

This low-angle shot is used to make the audience feel smaller than Beyonce and her dance troupe, by making the audience look up to the star in question. This once again links to the star treatment element which runs through the entirety of this video.

Medium-long shot

This medium-long shot could be classified as a two-shot however it only shows the upper bodies of both artists. This shot creates a personal connection with the audience as they both look at the audience as they sing/rap.

FX: Not as many effects are used in this video in comparison to others, however there are a few flashy practical effects used to hook the audience’s interest. These include a quick zoom at the start of the video as well as an explosion of a car later on.

Location/ Mise-En-Scene: Throughout the production Beyoncé embarks on a multitude of different personas, and with this, comes a change in location. Many of the locations throughout the production reflect that of the respective persona. A prime example of this would be Beyoncé’s ‘ghettoized’ appearance with her fellow female dancers. The location used for this shoot is a darkened ally-way, reflecting a darker and more dangerous persona. With the change in locations comes the change in costume. Throughout the video Beyoncé has 6 different incarnations and costumes she performs in. Much of her clothing is highly sexually provocative. An example of this would be her red high heels and bubble-gum reflecting a naughty and troublesome persona. Throughout the video there is a mixture of both low and high-key lighting. This contrasts the difference in mentality for Beyoncé. As the video progresses the light becomes darker and darker which could be reflective of her descent into ‘craziness’.

Sub-culture: The sub-culture of African Americanism is hinted towards in this production due to the presence of Jay Z (dressed in black with bling) and Beyoncé’s ‘ghettoized’ appearance in one of the scenes.

Director style: The director uses various different scenes and incarnations of Beyoncé to create a visually stimulating and action packed video experience.  

Elements linked to your idea: What could perhaps be considered is the directors clear fast pace style of video and progression of a character (In this case Beyoncé). 

Music video analysis #4- Daft Punk- Around the world

Music video analysis #4

Act: Daft Punk

Track: ‘Around the world’

Year: 1997

Director: Michel Gondry

Genre: French house
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymei5EA5tz0
(The video has since been removed by copyright claim, and there is no other copy on YouTube.)

Main audience: M and F 18-25 people who frequent disco’s or clubs. Dancers.

Relationship between visuals+ Lyrics: The video is rather abstract in its portrayal of various groups walking around a large vinyl. This directly corresponds to the consistent lyrical substance of walking “around the world”. 

Genre characteristics: French house is a derivement from the larger genre Euro disco. The video is conventional in this sense due to its dancers and fluorescent backing lights reminiscent of the Euro disco scene. Another convention of the genre in relation to this music video (and music) is the sampled and repeated phrase “Around the world” which is repeated around 66 times throughout the song.

Performance/ Narrative/ Concept: This video is highly unconventional to mainstream music video’s due to its unique concept involving fewer cuts than what would be considered standard in addition to the fact the entirety of the video being based in one location (and on an enlarged vinyl). There is no visible narrative throughout this production other than the dancing of the respective groups. In this concept each group of dancers (Five groups consisting of ‘Tall guys’, ‘Skeletons’, ‘Mummies’ ‘Swimmers’ and ‘Robots’) represents a different instrumentation or sound in the song, and so their dance is synchronized with this idea. It is evident by the movements of the dancers that the ‘tall guys’ are representative of the bass, the ‘Skeletons’ ,the guitar, the ‘Swimmers’, the synthesizer keys, the ‘mummies’, the percussion and finally the ‘Robots’, the voice sample “around the world”. The only break in individualism would be towards the end of the song where many of the groups seem to join in synchronization.

Performance style: The distinctly dressed groups of dancers in this video and their respective individual dance moves are a pertinent point of interest in this video. This individuality is lost towards the end of the song when the groups become one in their movements and dance moves.

Linear/ Closed narrative: This video showcases a closed narrative as the video does not formally end, other than fading to black. This is suggestive that the groups on the vinyl do not go away and remain dancing.

Looking/mode of address: There is no eye contact with the audience and the dancers seem highly isolated in their movements and actions. This pure concentration and lack of emotion when performing their dance moves suggests a lack of sentient thought within the dancers. This further reinforces the idea that the dancers are not people, but the sounds of the music.

Star treatment: There is no particular start treatment offered here due to the fact, the various groups are all offered significant attention due to their equal importance in the sound construction of the music.

Pace+ Any variation of pace: The song starts slower and slowly feeds in different elements to the music (And subsequent dancers to the video). This 'build up' is highly conventional of all electronic music and is seen in full force here. A prime example of this would be as the bass line begins at the start of the song, the tall guys are one of the only group to be dancing in synchronization to the music, contrasting from many of the dancers who are sitting on the floor not doing anything. During the climax of the song (the most intensive part of the song) the whole dance troupe (except the robots) dance in synchronization mimicking that of a club crowd this reflects on the pacing of the music as well as the video.  

Shot variety: Throughout the production there are a smaller range of shots than usually conventional in mainstream music videos. Due to the simple premise of this video, the shots include that of medium-long shots, high angle shots, long shots, and a bird’s eye shot. The minimal variation reflects that of the music and simplicity of the concept. 

Medium long shot

This medium-long shot has been used to give the audience a different insight into the stage and depict the dancers from another angle. In this shot the audience can clearly see three different groups of dancers from a refreshing angle.

High angle shot

This high angle shot gives the audience the impression that they are the observer to the performance being put in front of them and gives the audience a feeling of superiority over the stage.

Long shot

This long shot once again offers the audience another perspective on the dance floor and this time shows four different groups of dancers in their respective places.

Bird's eye shot 

In addition to the high-angle shot this bird's eye shot reinforces the notion that the dancers are circulating the vinyl and that the audience is a spectator to this movement.

FX: The only effects seemed to be used are practical effects such as lighting. There is a large amount of low key lighting used to perhaps reflect the scenario of a nightclub or disco dance floor (Highly conventional of electronic music). In addition to this low key lighting a background of multi-coloured lights have been used to further reinforce a disco vibe.

Location+ Mise En-Scene: A singular location has been used throughout the video, and is shown to be a vinyl (record) in which the different factions of dancers perform upon. The stage is backed by a wall of multi-coloured disco lights and above lies additional lights. This low key lighting is highly conventional of the genre as it connotes a dance floor or disco where this music would be traditionally played. In addition to this, the various costumes of the different dancers are highly juxtaposed with one another. This gives the video a very quirky and eccentric feel (mimicking fancy dress?).

Notable shots/ framing: A particular frame of importance would be when the camera moves back and reveals how small the dancers are and ushers in a whole new perspective for the audience.

Director style: The director for this production made an interesting choice to synchronize the dancer’s movements and dance moves with certain elements of the music piece. A prime example of this would be the characters dressed in tracksuits. It is evident that this group is representative of the song’s bass line. This is reinforced in movements throughout the song and when they walk down the staircase in a quick manner (Synchronized with the downward scaling of the baseline). This creative designation of instrumentation's to different groups is a highly pertinent and impactful element to this video.

Elements linked to your idea: The low key lighting in this song is highly relevant to me.   

Music video analysis #3- The Hives- Hate to say I told you so

Music video analysis #3

Act: ‘The Hives’

Track: ‘Hate to say I told you so’

Year: 2000

Genre: Garage punk

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uz1Jwyxd4tE

Main audience:  M 15-25. Aspirational youths (15+).
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 Genre Characteristics: Many of the genre characteristics seen in the video are hand in hand with the genre of music itself. These characteristics range from the instruments to the bands performance style. The video showcases the band performing which is highly conventional of the genre due to the usual low budget of the productions. The video shows the band playing their instruments of guitars, and a drum kit which is highly conventional of the genre. Another characteristic to identify would be the bands matching attire and 60’s mod style. This includes their matching clothing and hair styles.

Performance/Narrative: The video is all a performance act reinforcing the notion of a 1960’s style performance. The song features the band performing with various after effects and practical effects such as a freeze (FX) and a mirror (practical).

Looking/ mode of address: Throughout the production the vocalist of the band looks into the camera and subsequently at the audience. A prime example of this would be when his face is superimposed upon a cream coloured background. He makes direct eye contact with the audience while his face is enlarged. 

Star treatment: Although the lead vocalist is given some element of star treatment through his face being superimposed upon a cream background. However for most of the video the entirety of the band are given equal attention from the camera. In addition to this the breakdown involving the bass player just shows the players face for an extended period of time.

Bass player's breakdown focus

Representations: Through this video a representation of youth can be made as the band are highly lively and dance and jump about often. This works hand in hand with the garage punk genre as this is conventional of youth and 'punkish' attitude.

Pace/ Any variation of pace: The production remains fairly consistent all the way through in terms of pace (Conventional of punk music) however there is a breakdown with only the bass player playing the main riff. This reflects on the video as the bass players face is shown for an extended period of time as he plays alone. However after this break down, the pace is restored to its normal tempo.

Shot variety: The video showcases a basic variation of different shot types including that of medium-long shots, close ups, and long shots.

Medium-long shot

This medium-long shot shows both the guitarist and drummer playing their respective instruments and has been used due to it's capability to depict both performers playing their instruments.

Close up

This close-up of the lead vocalist shows the intensity of the performance and how engrossed and passionate the singer is due to the sweat visibly seen on his face. This also creates an intimate bond between the audience and band.

Long shot

This long shot is used as it perfectly depicts the entire band in one shot, performing and dressed in matching outfits in union.

FX: There is a large amount of effects used in the editing process of the production. These effects include that of superimposed imagery (Patterned black background and vocalist’s face) as well as fade on the performances (giving an aged look to the video) and a freeze on some of the band members during the performance.

Locations/ Mise-En-Scene: There is only one location used in the video, and it appears to be a 1960’s esc studio with a black floor and cream back-drop. In terms of costume the band all wear matching clothes demonstrating their unity and brotherhood. In addition to this they all sport similar hair styles (short and mod influenced). In terms of lighting, lots of high-key lighting is used to create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Sub-culture: The subculture of the 60’s mod movement is a highly reminiscent theme throughout this video due to the indicators of the Mise-en-scene through the production.

Directors style: The director has used a mixture of standard filming and highly distorted visuals. Much of this has been achieved through editing (Jump cuts utilized).

Elements linked to your idea: I would perhaps take influence from the idea of visual distortions in my video much like what has been achieved in this production.

Music video analysis #2- The Smashing Pumpkins- Cherub rock

Music video analysis #2

Act: The Smashing Pumpkins

Track: ‘Cherub Rock’

Year: 1993

Director: Kevin Kerslake

Genre: Alternative rock

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-KE9lvU810

Main audience: M 15-34+ Audience from the 90’s + Aspirational teens (15+)

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Genre characteristics: Psychedelic influenced visuals and florescent colours. The footage is also seen to be visually distorted or damaged giving a disrupted and effect of discontinuation. However despite this, there are several artistic licences taken up due to the showcasing of imagery in many parts of the video. Many of these more artistic elements are conventional of the alternative rock genre. In addition to the performance style of music video which is also highly common for the rock genre as a whole.

The band performing in the forest area.

Artistic imagery of an angel.

Performance/ Narrative: The video does not showcase any one narrative under closer inspection, however what is visible is a performance by the band, which is sometimes in synchronization with the song and other times is not. This is a key convention of the alternative rock genre and a highly pertinent feature of this video.

Performance style: Some of the performance is in synchronization with the music, however some parts are not. Some elements of the performance do not necessarily translate to the idea of the band members playing their instruments. A prime example of this would be when the lead vocalist and guitarist reaches for the sky as he sings. This clearly reinforces the fact that the music is out of synchronization with the video at many points throughout the performance. And reinforces the notion of a star treatment towards him due to the fact this artistic license is not granted towards the other band mates. 

The lead vocalist/guitarist poses.

Looking/mode of address: There are many points throughout the video where the lead vocalist and guitarist looks at the audience as he sings. This idea is also translated through when the lyrics of the song also address the audience with personal pro-nouns such as "you" in the line “If you don’t stare”. 

Direct eye contact with the audience.

Star treatment: The video puts a focus on the lead vocalist and songwriter of the band due to his image being the main focus of the band as a whole. But still manages to give appropriate attention to the other band members in the process of this.

Pace/ Variation of pace: The video maintains a consistent pace and tempo which synergizes with the music.

Shot variety: There are a large variety of shots ranging from oblique shots to long-shots and close ups of the lead guitarist/singer’s face and guitar playing. There is also a consistent range of low angle shots on the respective band members reinforcing their importance in the band as well as the impact on the music.

Estimated No. of shots: There approximately 5 different shots in total throughout the video. (Long shot, Close up, Extreme close up, Medium-long shot, Low angled shot).

Long-shot

Long shots are used here to demonstrate the bigger picture to the audience due to the lack of ordered thought in this video. This long shot clearly shows the band playing in the Forrest location with their instruments with a florescent coloured background.

Close up

The close-ups in this video are highly related to the notion of the star treatment of the group members and in particular the lead vocalist and principle song-writer of the band. This is a prime example of a close up on the lead vocalist and guitarist Billy Corgan.

Extreme close up of the guitarist's jaw bone.

These extreme close-ups make for disorientated frames and contributes to the ambiguity of the video production.

Medium-long shot

Medium-long shots are used in this case as they are optimal at demonstrating a performance aspect of the video due to their capability of being able to show the artist and instrument alike.

Low angle shot of the bassist.

Low-angle shots are used to demonstrate a superiority. In this case, this low angle shot creates the notion of superiority over the audience due to the audience having to look up to the bassist.

FX: Various after effects have been used to formulate the vibrant lighting and imagery scattered throughout the video. The effects also connote a distorted, ‘messy’ and disorientated view throughout the video. These will have been edited in by the director and the band after filming. 

Location/+Mise-En-Scene: The video is set up in a forest where the band members each play their respective instruments. Their clothing suggest their artistic nature due to the liberal connotations of patterned clothing and long hair (Shown on the drummer). The low-key lighting is highly conventional of the rock elements to the music however this is greatly juxtaposed by the vibrant colours and imagery of artistic elements of society (Statues of angels and SIFI style blueprints). This demonstrates an artistic and more vibrant appeal into the music video.

Sub-culture: The alternative nature of the music video hints towards the bands association with alternative culture and rock music due to the slight flamboyancy and artistic elements of the performance.

Notable shots/ framing: Many shots throughout this performance are notable due to their oblique nature. They are highly non-conventional of mainstream editing and music video’s in general. This distinct distorted imagery is a distinct indicator of the separation of this band and their music from total mainstream forces and popular music. 

Director style: Having been criticized for his style of direction and editing the director (Kevin Kerslake) took with the production, his destructive and distorted effect on the video is distinctive enough for recognition. It is said the director employed several destructive techniques when developing the film to create the dirty and broken effect on the final piece. However the details of this claim have not been proved.

Elements linked to your idea: This video could greatly link to my video through the large amount of low-key lighting.