We Speak Music

Vision Video Delivers Masterful Tune ‘Balaclava Kiss’

Published

4 months ago

July 24, 2024

The highly anticipated recent single from modern goth rock band Vision Video, “Balaclava Kiss,” is set to captivate listeners with its brooding atmosphere and soaring melodies. This single offers a tantalizing taste of what’s to come in their upcoming album, set to dominate playlists later this year.

“Balaclava Kiss” intricately weaves together poignantly poetic lyrics and lavishly layered instrumentals, showcasing the band’s signature blend of ethereal synths, driving basslines, and evocative guitar riffs. Frontman Dusty Gannon’s mesmerizing vocals, dripping with raw emotion, soar over the dynamic soundscape below. Co-vocalist and keyboardist Emily Fredock perfectly complements Dusty’s commanding melodic lines with her striking vocal tone and powerful performance prowess.

Vision Video remains unwavering in their exploration of the human psyche in their lyrics, and “Balaclava Kiss” is no different, delving deep into the complexity of the human condition. Speaking on the creative process of the single, frontman Dusty Gannon shares:

“I take a lot of inspiration from my observations of interesting imagery that I see in the world. I saw a picture a while back of someone raising up a balaclava to kiss a person, and it felt like such a beautiful, dualistic image that inspired the spirit of the song. ‘Balaclava Kiss’ is essentially a protest song that we wrote about the rise of fascist, right-wing ideology in the world. Here in America, we’re watching an intense commitment to the denigration of human rights, both through domestic and foreign policy. Seeing the unmasking of things like Project 2025 and Trump’s appointed Supreme Court rolling back decades of legal precedents that protected human rights and freedoms is both alarming and sickening, but conversely, the Democratic party supporting the unabashed attempted genocide of Palestinians is equally disturbing. This song is all about getting out into the streets and protesting, but in a non-violent, non-compliant sort of way—and with the police and corporate surveillance becoming so pervasive, balaclavas are an excellent way to subvert facial recognition algorithms!”

With such an important sentiment at the heart of this single, “Balaclava Kiss” is poised to become an instant classic in the rock realm. Showcasing their unique brand of modern goth rock, Vision Video cements their place as torchbearer of the genre right now.

We Speak Music

Kendra & The Bunnies Challenges the “Manic Pixie Dream Girl” Stereotype with New Single, “Manic Pixie Nightmare”

Published

8 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Philomena Marie

Kendra Muecke of Kendra & the Bunnies is back in the spotlight with her latest release, “Manic Pixie Nightmare,” a single that confronts and defies the traditional “manic pixie dream girl” (MPDG) trope. Known for her genre-blending sound that fuses rock, pop, and elements of folk, Kendra has built a reputation for delivering music with powerful messages of self-love and authenticity. With “Manic Pixie Nightmare,” she takes her message a step further, encouraging fans to embrace their individuality and break free from societal constraints.

The term “manic pixie dream girl” refers to a cinematic trope that presents quirky, free-spirited female characters as a muse for male protagonists. In her new single, however, Kendra reclaims this character as a figure who refuses to be boxed into anyone else’s narrative. Instead of living for others, Kendra’s “Manic Pixie Nightmare” character lives for herself. The track tackles complex themes of self-discovery, self-worth, and rejecting external expectations, reflecting Kendra’s evolving artistry and commitment to empowering messages.

The song combines catchy guitar riffs and a punchy beat with lyrics that are both rebellious and introspective. Kendra’s bold vocal performance gives life to lines that challenge listeners to live authentically, making “Manic Pixie Nightmare” both an anthem for personal freedom and a critique of narrow, limiting labels. As Kendra puts it, “Chasing love can lead to heartbreak, but finding yourself? That’s where the magic happens.” Her message has struck a chord with listeners, as early feedback shows fans responding strongly to the song’s empowering themes.

Adding a visual layer to the single, Kendra released a music video shot on the Los Angeles subway, specifically on the line running from North Hollywood to Hollywood Blvd. The video shows Kendra journeying through the subway with friends, symbolizing the process of self-discovery amid an ever-moving world. Set against the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, the video highlights her message of forging one’s own path and finding meaning outside of societal pressures. The subway scenes create a relatable setting that complements the song’s themes of independence and authenticity.

Kendra’s new single has already received positive feedback from music critics and fans alike, who appreciate her willingness to challenge conventional stereotypes while providing an upbeat and fun musical experience. With this release, Kendra is not only solidifying her presence in the indie music scene but also expanding her audience. “Manic Pixie Nightmare” has caught the attention of fans who are eager for music that speaks to personal empowerment and breaking free from limiting narratives.

Kendra Muecke continues to push the boundaries of indie rock-pop with “Manic Pixie Nightmare.” By taking on cultural archetypes and reframing them, she’s giving listeners a fresh perspective on self-identity and personal freedom. As she continues to create and evolve, fans can expect more music that doesn’t just entertain but also inspires critical thinking and self-reflection.