The music video for Pacifico’s latest single, “Stagnant,” delivers a visually striking narrative that perfectly encapsulates the song’s central themes of inertia and emotional stasis. Shot in black-and-white, the video opens with Matthew Schwartz seated on a chair on a bustling urban sidewalk, surrounded by the ceaseless movement of city life. Cars pass by, and pedestrians weave through the frame, creating a powerful contrast between the external world’s relentless motion and the internal stillness Schwartz embodies. This opening sets the tone for a song deeply rooted in the frustration of feeling stuck despite genuine connections.

As the video unfolds, the setting shifts from the chaos of the city to quieter, more contemplative environments, like a serene park. These transitions highlight the duality between external noise and internal stagnation, reinforcing the song’s exploration of love and life’s complexities. The stark simplicity of the video’s concept places the focus squarely on Schwartz’s heartfelt performance, allowing his raw emotion to resonate deeply with viewers. It’s an artful visual companion to the candid lyrics and infectious indie rock-pop melody that define “Stagnant.”

The track, from Pacifico’s latest EP, Moving On or Standing Still, dives into the tension of a relationship caught in limbo. Schwartz’s earnest vocals and introspective songwriting tap into the universal experience of yearning for progress while feeling trapped. The video’s everyday settings, from busy streets to tranquil parks, serve as poignant metaphors for this emotional push-and-pull, inviting listeners to reflect on their own struggles with love, frustration, and personal growth.

Pacifico, originally a full band formed in 1999, has evolved under Schwartz’s leadership into a dynamic solo project, embracing collaborations and exploring new creative directions. With a history of placements in films, TV shows, and video games, Pacifico has cultivated a loyal following that eagerly anticipates each new release. “Stagnant” marks a compelling chapter in this journey, offering both a deeply personal narrative and a universally relatable message.

As the video for “Stagnant” hits platforms, it serves as a powerful introduction to Pacifico’s new EP. Keep an eye out for more from Schwartz and co. as they continue to explore themes of change, progress, and the emotional weight of standing still.

Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically?

Out of all the songs on our upcoming Moving On Or Standing Still EP this song felt the most commercial and universal with its theme of inertia. It was written in 2008, when I was dating someone and the relationship wouldn’t move forward. I went to the piano and “Stagnant” came out. But rather than it see the light of day, the song had to wait sixteen years until it it was time for it to “Move On” rather than “Stand Still”

What was the inspiration behind this video(visuals, storyline, etc.)?

For this video the director, Michael Friedman, suggested the concept with the chair and the world passing quickly around me to symbolize how sometimes, no matter how fast the world is moving around us, we are stuck. The only creative note I added is for the music video to be black and white to match all the rest of the EP’s artwork and photography. I am very happy with how it turned out.

What was the process of making this video?

We shot it all in one day between filming in downtown College Park, on the Push Push Arts campus, and at the Westside Reservoir park in Atlanta, GA. We filmed the song at half speed and then sped it up in post to match the recording. The only part of the video in true time would be the bridge, in which I donned a guitar and they projected fast stock footage over me. The video was then edited, and color corrected and is what you see today