All photographs this week were taken on the set of the music video shoot for the new Sworn Virgins record “Searchin for Hiro” which has just been released on the Deewee label & produced by the relentless music machine that is David and Stephen Dewaele aka Soulwax/2manydjs.
I had been hired to take behind-the-scenes shots (BTS as they call ’em in the biz) at Four Corners studio in East London and as first days back go, I gotta say, it was pre-tay pre-tay pre-taaay good! First off Sworn Virgins are one of my favourite bands at the mo (along with Warmduscher who they are also a part of ) and have loved everything they’ve done so far. They have a winning combo of killer hooks, dirty beats, great lyrics and a healthy dose of ‘don’t give a fuck’ attitude and every track on this latest EP is a belter. This was not only a result for my inner fanboy but also a massive bonus because, when you are working on a music vid, you are gonna hear the tune a shit ton of times so it definitely helps to like it.
It was my first day back working in almost a year and it was so good to be on a set doing what I love. Not being able to use my camera for such a long time was like losing a limb as well as a good chunk of my mojo so to be back in action was bliss. You fear after not doing something for a while that you will have lost your skills but thankfully it all just clicked as soon as I looked through the viewfinder. (no camera pun intended, well ok mebbe a lil) Suddenly everything felt right. I’d say it was like riding a bike but I’m shit at riding a bike.
My job was also made infinitely easier because Clams & Quinn and the rest of the cast were so captivating on camera, as you can see in these shots. The monochromatic finish (apart from one pair of very cool red gloves) was used to echo the same aesthetic as the video itself which you can watch below. It was directed by the brilliant Douglas Hart and Steve Mackey who, rather than add on effects in post, do it in camera as they shoot, using a bit of very cool analogue tech from back in the day (sorry don’t know what it’s called but it’s got a little joystick if that helps). They also both happen to have been in two of my favourite bands of all time (Jesus & Mary Chain & Pulp respectively). Even tho’ I wanted to gush I restrained myself obvs, I’m a profeshionaal innit?
They say you should never meet your hiros (see what i did there?) but that only applies if they’re total dicks. Otherwise it’s all good. And the whole experience, including being part of such a lovely crew was just what I needed. So all in all, yes I had a very good day. Sure as shit beats lying on the sofa staring into space which is what I did for most of last year but more of that next week..,.