Unlock the Power of Physical Connection Through Music Videos
Kevin Abstract featuring Lil Nas X, "Tennessee"
Kevin Abstract and Lil Nas X, united by a desire to blur gender lines, deliver a subversive and charged video. Shirtless men marked with tattoos silently lift weights, expressing a domineering yet soulful attraction. The absence of explicit sex only heightens the tension, leaving us to wonder where this night will lead. It's a celebration of male desire and a departure from traditional norms.This video showcases the artists' ability to convey complex emotions through subtle gestures and body language. The use of chiaroscuro adds an extra layer of depth, making the viewer feel as if they are witnessing a private moment. It's a testament to the power of music videos to tell stories that words alone cannot.
The animalistic energy in the video is undeniable, as the rappers assert their dominance over the group. It's a bold statement about masculinity and femininity, and how these boundaries are constantly being pushed and redefined.
Bon Iver, "Awards Season"
Bon Iver's "Awards Season" uses chiaroscuro as a visual metaphor for love and its absence. The first half of the clip is filled with bright light framed by darkness, representing the hope and longing for love. Then, as the couple kisses in slow motion, the video bursts into daylight, symbolizing the fulfillment of that longing.The contrast between the framed and unframed scenes is masterfully executed, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. Justin Vernon's solitary figure sitting in the sunshine adds a touch of melancholy, reminding us that even in moments of joy, there is always a hint of loss.
The use of black and white adds a timeless quality to the video, making it feel both classic and modern. It's a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of love and its many facets.
Sabrina Carpenter, "Please Please Please"
In this cheeky video, Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan play a bumbling Bonnie and Clyde. Carpenter delivers a range of exasperated facial expressions while Keoghan charms as both a doting lover and a buffoonish recidivist.The clip takes the concept of an embarrassing boyfriend to the extreme, showing the ups and downs of a relationship. Carpenter's final act of tying Keoghan to a chair and taping his mouth shut is both hilarious and relatable, as it captures the frustration that many girlfriends feel.
The chemistry between Carpenter and Keoghan is palpable, making the viewer feel as if they are part of the story. It's a lighthearted take on love and relationships that is sure to leave a smile on your face.
Charli XCX featuring Billie Eilish, "Guess"
Charli XCX and Billie Eilish prove that music videos can be both stupidly funny and heartfelt. In this clip, they tease us with sapphic winks and daytime vodka-drenched partying.The visual style is over-the-top and exaggerated, with a mountain of panties and a bulldozer seduction. It's a celebration of youth and rebellion, and a reminder that sometimes life is just about having fun.
The chemistry between Charli and Billie is undeniable, as they play off each other's energy. It's a fun and lighthearted video that showcases the best of both artists.
FKA twigs, "Eusexua"
FKA twigs' "Eusexua" is a waking dream that depicts the deadening effects of technology and capitalism. In the video, twigs arrives late to work at a drab office and receives an unsettling phone call.This triggers a disruptive mass-consciousness event and some erotic group choreography involving office chairs. The transition to an earthy, flesh-colored alternate space is both shocking and beautiful, highlighting the contrast between our digital lives and our physical selves.
The video is a powerful commentary on the state of modern society and our relationship with technology. It's a call to action to reconnect with our bodies and each other.
Kim Gordon, "Bye Bye"
Kim Gordon's "Bye Bye" tells the story of her daughter's adventure as a runaway. We watch as she climbs the hills of LA, recovers a hidden suitcase, and stays in a mysterious motel room.The video is a fantasy that blurs the line between reality and imagination. It's a coming-of-age story that explores the themes of identity and self-discovery.
Gordon's steely face throughout the video tells us that she has seen it all before, adding a layer of wisdom and experience to the story. It's a touching and thought-provoking video that will stay with you long after you've watched it.
Kendrick Lamar, "Not Like Us"
Released on the Fourth of July, Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" is a declaration of independence from cultural interlopers. The video is a visual onslaught of Drake's downfall, from a smashed owl piñata to dancers in clown makeup.Lamar's powerful choreography and intense energy make this video a standout. It's a message of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
The use of cinderblocks and massive crowds of fans adds to the sense of unity and determination. It's a rallying cry for those who refuse to be defined by others.
Dua Lipa, "Illusion"
Dua Lipa's "Illusion" was shot at the Piscinia Municipal de Montijuïc in Barcelona, making use of the location's stunning architecture and cityscape.The video is a visual feast, with Lipa hanging from a ring and being lifted above the skyline. It's a celebration of her body and her confidence, and a reminder that we are all capable of achieving our dreams.
The use of the Olympic site adds a sense of grandeur and history to the video, making it feel like a tribute to the human spirit. It's a beautiful and inspiring video that will leave you feeling uplifted.
Magdalena Bay, "Death & Romance"
Magdalena Bay's "Death & Romance" is a collage-like flurry of bizarre, colorful imagery. Singer Mica Tenenbaum dons a blond wig and adopts the persona of Dorothy Gale, contending with an alien invasion and a love affair with a man made of light.The visual direction is highly stylized, drawing on vaporwave and glitchy '90s computer graphics. It's a journey through the subconscious, exploring the themes of transformation and vulnerability.
The use of these design trends adds an extra layer of depth to the video, making it feel both nostalgic and futuristic. It's a unique and captivating visual experience that will stay with you long after the song ends.
The Weeknd featuring Anitta, "São Paulo"
"The Weeknd featuring Anitta, "São Paulo" is a pastiche of the artist's visual influences, with strobe-lit opening credits and glam exploitation.The video is a wild ride, from Anitta's masked woman strolling down the street to the outlandish body horror that follows. It's a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the ability to shock and delight the viewer.
The use of practical-VFX and absurdist sketch comedy adds to the overall sense of chaos and confusion. It's a video that will leave you questioning reality and the nature of art.
If you can, please consider supporting Slant Magazine.Since 2001, we've brought you uncompromising, candid takes on the world of film, music, television, video games, theater, and more. Independently owned and operated publications like Slant have been hit hard in recent years, but we're committed to keeping our content free and accessible—meaning no paywalls or fees.If you like what we do, please consider subscribing to our Patreon or making a donation.