Words by Dein Moore @deingerous1
‘Killer’ by Samantha Crain is a great track with a powerful message, but the video is truly something special. It’s been described as a call for people to not take the media and their leaders at their word but to seek the reality of situations for themselves, and I couldn't possibly think of a more eloquent way of explaining what has been produced here. The video follows ‘Evan’, who dreams of being a policeman to better his community but inevitably falls to the corrupt nature of the role, then suffers the same fate as his own victims and demons in the end. I like the fact the authority figure in the video is represented by a child – it's a great metaphorical reference that represents the behaviour and thoughts of those put in quite powerful positions. Throughout the video, though, there is no real sense of innocence, which may be a missed opportunity to represent those who have suffered this same kind of injustice. (Innocence is somewhat represented by dolls and other toys/props that Evan is more than happy to exploit for his own personal purposes but I would have liked to have seen a more human element to represent the victims of such horrible examples of humanity.)
The music itself is quite minimal and sparse with the message being the main focal point for your ears (as it should be). Samantha Crain’s interesting voice really keeps you gripped to the message. As it so poignantly delivers every word, nothing really distracts or intrudes upon the main vocal line, which evokes a mournful vibe, driving home the point that something needs to change.
It's not every day you get a song and video that represent a need for change in a digestible form and though some of the elements could have been better represented, the overall package is clear, concise and, dare I say, enjoyable. What has been happening in the real world both recently (in America) and throughout history (worldwide) is inexcusable. Samantha Crain's song and video embody this message effectively while still managing to be something easy to listen to – not a straightforward task. I'll definitely have it swimming through my playlist throughout the week.
'Killer' is on Samantha Crain's album, 'Under Branch & Thorn & Tree', out now on Full Time Hobby