It is not often that I judge songs based on their music videos, because the harmony of lyrics and instruments speaks to us all in different ways. But, as a visual artist, I am occasionally struck by the creative mastery that goes into motion media and video editing. So, in no particular order, here are some songs that (in my humble opinion) have especial value with respect to production design. These are all songs that I like and that you may also enjoy, however I've selected them not for their sonic elements but due to outstanding set, lighting, costuming, narrative, moral, humor, or other such genius.
1. "National Anthem" by Lana Del Ray
This video is a smorgasbord of stylish cars, blooming flowers, glittering jewelry, exotic furs, and false eyelashes. While Lana's romanticized interpretation of the Kennedy assassination is debatably in poor taste, the cinematography of the video itself is absolutely beautiful. The ambiguous tableau of sex and politics is undoubtedly a feast for the eyes, and the concept, however tragic, is intriguing. Lana has a knack for smothering repulsion with allure.
2. "Breezeblocks" by Alt-J
Alt-J was very clever in their selection and rearrangement of this narrative. I had to watch the video several times before finally grasping the complete story, but even before I understood it, the frothing water and floating glass gave me chills. After realizing that it was actually playing in reverse, the choreography took on a strange new meaning. Despite the struggle occurring, there is a peculiar intimacy to the violence between the characters. Not to mention that the video's scenes are incredibly well-shot: the resolution only heightens the drama.
3. "Weapon Of Choice" by Fatboy Slim
I am unclear on what exactly is going on here, but the gorgeous, isolated set design is only a backdrop for the mind-bending hilarity that ensues when Christopher Walken gets up out of that armchair.
4. "Sixteen Saltines" by Jack White
Read Lord of the Flies? AG Rojas, the director of this music video, certainly did. He masterfully crafted a suburban juvenile dystopia complete with angry, smoothie-spitting cheerleaders; little boys huffing alcohol through gas masks, and schoolgirls playing a game of amputation hopscotch. If you like Harmony Korine films, you'll love this.
5. "Lying Is The Most Fun A Girl Can Have Without Taking Her Clothes Off" by Panic! At The Disco
Panic! At The Disco has always excelled in doling out strange fantasy lands. The 1940s fishbowl world in this video is no different, and no less heartbreaking in how stunning it is.
6. "Black Treacle" by Arctic Monkeys
The plot line for this video is very unclear, but even as a compilation of suggestive visual elements, it is fascinating and ethereal. Like all of the Arctic Monkeys' content, it is lovely, dimly lit, and a little confusing.
7. "Dollhouse" by Melanie Martinez
Martinez's metaphor here, that families hiding with secrets are no different than children's dolls, is powerful. The creepy-cute 1950s aesthetic only serves to intensify the fluorescent message by demanding your attention.
8. "Just Like Fire" by P!nk
This promotional music video was played in theaters showing "Through The Looking Glass." Having viewed both the film and music video, I love the parallelism in P!nk's message and the film's moral: feminism, empowerment and individuality. Excellent set and costume design.
9. "Monster" by Eminem ft. Rihanna
Painful and poignant, as Eminem's vignettes almost always are. In this video, he figuratively recounts moments in his life that have defined and now trouble him. In the end, he must confront and reject the beast that he has become. Rihanna, dressed to kill, adds some grit and glamour with her spike nails and sleek bob. Again, excellent set and costume design.
10. "Shake It Out" by Florence + The Machine
...Just unquestionably ravishing, compelling, and motivating in every way.
