It’s been a while since I’ve been to a show, let alone filmed one, so it was an honor when I was able to link with Jose James to film his show at the New Parish. It was his first time in Oakland and the town definitely did not disappoint. Jose is a nice, talented and easy going guy and I hope you all enjoy the video for “Save Your Love for Me” after the cut. I have 3 more on the way including some behind the scenes stuff of him and his band during soundcheck.
Earlier this year, I spent some time with Oakland’s Mara Hruby getting to know about her stories growing up, her influences, and her sentiment in the style of clothing she rocks. Mara also performs a live acoustic rendition of D’Angelo’s “Send it On.” Take a moment to learn more about Mara Hruby in part one of this two part interview.
Over the summer, I took a trip to LA to meet with Robin Hannibal [Quadron/Boom Clap Bachelors] and create two music videos for his solo EP, Bobby. I was more than thrilled and excited to not only meet such a talented individual, but to also collaborate and help bring his stories and visions to life.
Robin Hannibal is a bit of a mysterious guy so I thought that in this video, he should play a central role in it. Robin came up with the storyline and we felt things along as we were shooting. It was a fun and low-key day at the canals, the beach and in Los Feliz and I had a great time. Keep an eye out for the second video, but enjoy this one in the meantime (which debuted on OkayPlayer and CMJ)!
Sometime last year, Ant Pomponio of Cadillac, messaged me about putting together a music video for his band. I was really excited by the offer because he lives all the way in Australia and I was humbled that he liked my work so much, that he trusted me to direct and shoot all the way in the states. Unfortunately, I was starting my first year of grad school, so we ended up losing contact.
Earlier this year, Ant reached out again and, since I was about to wrap up the school year, I agreed. I was really honored that even though things didn’t work out the first time, he asked me again, so I really wanted to do my best to bring Cadillac’s vision for ‘Dreams’ to life, despite the distance.
Hey everyone!
I apologize for this late post, but I’ve been in LA for the past few days shooting a couple of music videos and had no time to post about the release of the latest music video that I directed, shot and edited for the Boom Clap Bachelors’ song, “Skynd Dig Langsomt” (which translates to “Hurry, Slowly” in English).
The Stepkids are a trio on Stones Throw Records described as possessing a sound which is a fusion of punk and jazz, West African and 1960s folk, neo and classical soul, classic funk and 20th century classical. Whew.
They were the headliners at the May 26th show with Grillade and it was the first time I had ever heard their stuff. Their live show was amazing and each member donned all white suits and instruments to blend in with the psychedelic projections that lasted through their entire set.
During the end of May, I had the great fortune of watching Grillade perform (albeit through the lens) in San Jose. They are an amazing band and I encourage everyone to watch them live whenever you have the opportunity. You will not be disappointed. Many thanks to Michael Grammer and NewSense for another dope collaboration.
A couple of weeks ago I had the great pleasure of attending my second live Quadron show when they passed through Santa Cruz. Performing most of their songs off of their self-titled album, along with a beautiful rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Baby Be Mine,” Coco delivered an extremely heartfelt and intimate performance for the folks who came out on a chilly and rainy Sunday evening.
One of my favorite songs of the night was ‘Pressure,’ which showcased the amazing vocal strength, soul, and emotion that Coco embodies.
Early last year, I had a chance to shoot Freddie Joachim in the city. We tried to link up for an interview, but we could never connect the dots. I decided to take some of the small amount of footy I had and set it to his remix of Esthero’s ‘Thank Heaven for You,’ which is one of my favorite songs off of his Olive Juice (Love Remixes Vol. 1) compilation.
Music can be an integral part in evoking emotions in film, but finding the right songs that fit your scenes can be a difficult task. Luckily for us, the musician, Moby, has created a website where you can check out his songs and use them free of charge in independent and not-for-profit film, videos, or shorts. If you are going to be using the music in a commercial video then you can apply for an easy license where money generated from the project will be donated to the humane society.
