Tunes on the TV – 2

We’re back in list mode again as our latest series continues. Last time the hunt for incredible music videos took in the sights, sounds, and, er, smells (?) of acts and artists like The Chemical Brothers, Underworld and Fat Boy Slim, but we’ve still got a long way to go.

So what makes a great video? Take On Me, A-Ha’s legendary sketched masterpiece, is the epitome of style. Just as Michael Jackson’s, or should that be John Landis’ epic Thriller is the definition of a narrative video. That both were created way back when MTV was young is depressing and exciting. Sure, it means in many ways little has happened since the 80s in a medium that’s arguably seen its heyday. But that also points to the fact that innovation has had to continue in order for things to stay relevant, and for people to be kept interested.

After all that hot air the time has come to step down from our soapbox and let these short films and abstract works of near art do the talking. Read, watch, learn and disagree. Then get back to us with your own suggestions for next time…

Bjork  All Is Full Of Love / Directed by Chris Cunningham

The first of a new list, but two artists that are already seasoned veterans in this series. One of Bjork’s most inviting tracks is mirrored by this beautiful masterpiece. Cunningham’s least scary video to date is also a fine showcase of the deft hand he developed character designing on Alien 3.

LCD Soundsystem Losing My Edge / Director information unavailable

This was the track that introduced the world to James Murphy and his mates, catapulting them to the heights of disco-not-disco infamy. To make it even better, some comedy genius decided to make this as a promotional video. We wish we could credit them, because it’s perfect for this tune.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ON1eRJtoOrg&feature=fvst

The Juan MacLean Feel So Good / Directed by Steven Smith

It makes sense for these guys to be next on the list, what with them sharing a few similarities with the preceding Soundsystem. Electro-oddness rarely sounds this good, which is probably why the guy in the video literally can’t stop dancing wherever he roams. Nifty animation tricks abound, so enjoy.

DJ Shadow feat Mos Def 6 Days (Remix) / Directed by Wong Kar-wai.

The original track’s a lot tamer, and its video more coherent. Here both get a reworking by the original artists respectively responsible, creating a heavy set beat and even more attention grabbing video. The visuals won’t let you settle, just as the mixed brew of beats doesn’t, see what we mean?

U.N.K.L.E. The Runaway / Directed by Warren du Preez and Nick Thornton Jones

James Lavelle’s longstanding live music project isn’t known for normalcy. So it makes sense that this video is equally bizarre. We started thinking about what kind of membrane is keeping those rather seductive silhouettes in their cocoon, then thought it’s probably best we never, ever find out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGdl6X9n68E

Basement Jaxx Where’s Your Head At / Directed by Traktor

On stage Felix and Co have a reputation for lunacy, with this their crowning moment of self-professed honesty. The title of the track says it all, which is why there’s nothing more fitting to have as a visual aid than a load of music techies trying to sell some performing monkeys sporting the band’s faces.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8md51JnCNFQ

Prodigy Smack My Bitch Up / Directed by Jonas Akerlund

Controversy aside this remains one of our favourite all time videos. A twist worthy of the big screen punctuates a first person tale of one loutish, beer, drug, sex and fight filled night on’t tiles. Banned from almost everywhere, sourcing this version was near impossible, so check it out while it lasts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=StAbpvntNkA&feature=related

Daft Punk Revolution 909 / Directed by Roman Coppola

A house classic kicks off in precisely the way you imagine it would. Hordes of heads are arriving outside a warehouse party as the bass booms from within. Next thing, the cops show up, and begin questioning people. Zoom into a tomato stained uniform, cue video about farming methods. Quality.

Also in this series:

Tunes on the TV


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