by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH GRETTA ZILLER

In the realm of music videos where elaborate sets and high-tech effects often dominate, Gretta Ziller’s latest project for her single “Hell’s Half Acre” offers a refreshing departure with its raw, organic appeal.

As a celebrated Americana artist, marking a decade in music, Ziller’s new video is a deeply personal and evocative piece that reflects both her artistic evolution and the story behind her song.

“Hells’s Half Acre” is a track that holds special significance for Ziller as it represents a pivotal moment in her career.

The video, which has been created with a distinctive DIY approach, mirrors the song’s themes of departure, regret, and self-reflection through its earthy, vintage visuals. Rather than presenting a straightforward narrative, the video subtly suggests the song’s story, allowing viewers to interpret and connect with it on a personal level.

We caught up with Ziller to find out more about the creative process behind the video, the inspiration behind it and the innovative techniques used.

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

“Hell’s Half Acre” holds a special place in my heart as one of the first songs I released when I began my musical journey a decade ago. The song is about getting out of a ‘bad for you’ relationship, the person in the beginning was attracted to the wild/rebelliousness character but in the end it wasn’t who they were and they had to leave.

Although it’s technically a fictitious story there are elements of truth in it. I wrote the song when I was moving from a regional area to a city, a friend of mine was going through a messy divorce, I did know someone in a bike gang, and the Shady Pines Saloon is a real bar and Hell’s Half Acre is a real place! I didn’t get to make a music video for the original recording so this time I wanted to create something that hinted at the story but also allowed the watcher to make up their own about the song.

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

For the release of the new video, I really wanted to create an organic, earthy, vintage feel that complemented the themes of the song. The inspiration was to suggest the story in “Hell’s Half Acre” without being too literal, using subtle visuals like packing a bag, a dirt road that becomes asphalt, the view outside the car and glimpses of chapels. The idea was to provide hints that evoke the feeling of leaving, regret, and that lingering sense of “I’m old enough to have known better” rather than showing every detail.

I wanted layered visuals to further the idea of memory flashbacks with the feeling of moving forward. Most of all I wanted the clip to allow the watcher the freedom to connect emotionally while imagining the storyline for themselves.

3. What was the process of making the video?

For this video, I took a more DIY approach, which was really exciting and different from how I’ve worked before. I had the concept in mind, and I shared it with my videographer, Arlo Dean Cook, who has done most of my music videos. However, this time, my partner and I decided to film it ourselves.

We spent a day on the west side of Melbourne, capturing the landscape and beautiful Catholic shrines using just our phones. Once we had all the footage, I sent it over to Arlo, and he worked his magic and put it all together. It was a really fun and creatively liberating experience—filming, exploring new parts of my creativity, and having a more hands-on role in bringing the vision to life!

Stay connected with Gretta Ziller on her Website.

Stream music on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.

07.01.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’s WITH RAY LEVIER

Ray Levier is a multi faceted drummer, composer, and music producer, and has once again captivated audiences with the release of his new music video for “Uncharted Destiny.”

Known for his precision and versatility across jazz fusion, rock, hip-hop, and singer-songwriter styles, Ray’s latest offering shows unique vision and real artistic creativity.

Inspired by the story of a retired Air Force commander who, after narrowly surviving a near-fatal test flight crash, undergoes a biochemical fusion with an alien spacecraft called “Uncharted Destiny”. The commander’s transformation leads to an epic journey that reveals his true identity and connects him with an alien civilization at the edge of the universe, reflecting Ray’s own exploration of new beginnings and the interconnections of life.

The music video is truly epic and one of a kind, taking viewers far beyond the usual music video sphere into an experience that is completely out of this world. Ethereal and imbued with a spiritual component, it challenges viewers to contemplate what else could be out there in the vastness of the universe.

Created by Ray Levier, with sound design by Ray Levier, Frani Lugo, Mike Dwyer, and Leslie Bloome, the cast features Ray Levier as Commander Ray, David Kopec as Brass, Frani Lugo as Tech, and Zenji the Dog as himself. The musicians include Ray Levier on drums, vibraphones, keyboard synthesizers, lead and backing vocals, Richard Tozzoli on guitars and E-harp, and Tim Lefebvre on bass.

The Audio production was done by RSL Production Studio, The Clubhouse, and Alchemy Post Sound, with audio mix by Mike Dwyer and Neil Dorfsman. Conceptual and environmental design was handled by Frani Lugo and Ray Levier, while cinematography, CGI, graphics, editing, storyboarding, and illustrations were all done by Frani Lugo.

The official video for “Unchartered Destiny” by Ray Levier is now available on Ray’s official YouTube Channel HERE:

We caught up with Ray to talk about the music video to accompany this brand new single release!

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

I came up with the concept during Covid when everybody was sheltering in place and it seemed such a lonely time for me and so many others. It kept reminding me of the loneliness and emptiness of space and being alone for extended periods of time without anyone around. The positive side of the story reflects my accident and that there is always hope after a tragedy.

Just when you think you’re at Rock bottom and your life is over then something magical and beautiful appears unexpectedly. This is always been my thought process to stay positive after my accident being burned in a fire at a young age.

Turning tragedy into triumph, is something I knew I must do if I wanted to heal and be healthy as an individual to keep my spirit intact.

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

The inspiration of this video comes from a story I wrote about a man who is part alien but doesn’t realize it until the end of the video.

He is summoned to the other end of the galaxy to take his place as ruler of an alien civilization. There’s a whole backstory I’m working on with a screenplay that explains the journey in greater detail. So stay tuned for that.

3. What was the process of making this video?

The process of making this video was done with CGI (computer generated imagery) and shooting video with a green screen. We would shoot with green screen, then add all the CGI later to create the scene. Frani Lugo is the genius behind taking all my ideas and bringing them to life through this process.

It took us almost 3 years to create this as he was just one man taking on this monumental task. Normally there’s hundreds of people creating individual scenes working within the CGI realm. He pulled it off with amazing skill. He created everything you see on screen. There was no AI used in any of this. Just pure artistic genius on his part.

I hope the viewers enjoy the video and can take something away from it in regards to their own personal journey.

Listen to “Uncharted Destiny” on Spotify now!

Connect with Ray Levier:

Website // Facebook // Instagram // Spotify // Soundcloud // Apple Music // YouTube Music

06.24.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH MARLA LEWIS

New Jersey’s Marla Lewis is currently captivating listeners worldwide with her latest single, “Te Quiero a Ti.”

This mesmerizing new track, offered in both Spanish and English, showcases Marla’s exquisite bossa nova-inspired vocals, which are perfectly complemented by a rich and sophisticated arrangement.

The song features a lush ensemble of flute, piano, acoustic bass, electric guitar, drums, and backing vocals. The result is an evocative experience that captures the soul of romance, some vulnerability, and the carefree spirit of a holiday with its warm melodious embrace.

Marla has a very diverse set of influences in her music, including Ella Fitzgerald and The Beatles, and she has carved a unique path for herself bringing elements of big band, global folk music and smooth jazz together. A 25 year old tenure as an elementary school teacher ignited her passion for creating fun, educational and engaging songs for children, leading to accolades like featuring on the Grammy award winning album “All About Bullies … Big and Small” with her song “Leap of Faith.”

Transitioning into smooth jazz and American standards, Marla’s recent releases have captivated a global audience, including her latest hit “Te Quiero a Ti,” which has soared with much acclaim on indie music charts.

We caught up with Marla to discuss the music video to accompany her new single release, “Te Quiero A Ti.” The video was created by the talented Melissa Sanley.

Watch and share the Official “Te Quiero a Ti” music video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-7vghk7_7A

1.Tell us the story of this song. Why did you choose to visualize it specifically in this way?

This is the story about how you feel when pure love appears in your life, when you find someone who loves you the way you are, and makes you feel as one with every step you take. One look into each other’s eyes and you can see how you have met your match.

I visualized the video with this beautiful feeling in mind, to empower this marvelous song.

2. What inspired this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

This video shows different couples from all cultures having the same experience of deep love.

I aimed to awaken this feeling in all who watch it.

3. What was the process of making this video?

Like with any song, you need absorb yourself in it, choosing the exact image for every phrase, taking the all the time you need, and putting in all your love for the best result.

The first draft of the video had too many people of the same race and culture; it wasn’t until a friend commented on this that I revised it and made it for all the world.

Listen to “Te Quiero a Ti” on Spotify now!

Connect with Marla Lewis: Website. // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter // Spotify // Soundcloud // YouTube Music.

05.17.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH MAD AGNES

The trio, Mad Agnes, is well known for their captivating on-stage charisma and presence as well as their jaw-dropping musicianship. This unique blend has enchanted listeners worldwide for decades, and the group has built a reputation on their uniquely charming and intriguing sound.

Mad Agnes, (Margo Hennebach, Adrienne Jones, and Mark Saunders), combines elements of folk, Americana, and acoustic styles with intricate harmonies that entice the ear with lyricism and wit, pointing the listener towards internal introspection.

Their latest album release, “Likely Story” shows how each song carries a real intellectual depth, exploring universal themes like love, loss, change and reinvention in a very original way. The arrangements are rich with guitars, mandolin, ukulele, and piano alongside inventive three-part harmonies that infuse each track of this release.

Mad Agnes’ sophisticated vocal harmonies and impeccable musical arrangements have long enraptured music critics, garnering them comparisons to esteemed folk groups such as Steeleye Span and Fairport Convention.

We caught up with Mad Agnes to discuss the music video to accompany their new single release, “Beauty of this World,” written by Margo Hennebach.

Tell us the story of this song. Why did you choose to visualize it specifically in this way?

Because I wrote the song while hiking on the trails around our house in rural CT, I wanted to focus on the beauty I see around me everyday—a beauty that needs no fanfare, flowering trees, sunsets, or dramatic waterfalls. Mark filmed 95% of the video in our backyard on a misty day in early spring. The only scene away from our home is of a group of singers gathered from around the world blessing a table of food, captured from our time in Italy last June. It fit the song’s lyric too perfectly to ignore.

What inspired this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

When I take a moment to slow down, I’m inspired by living in such an extraordinary world.

I’m surrounded by beauty, wildlife and flora, and I hear music everywhere. I’m especially grateful for the humans I can share this with including my larger community, dear friends, and my special someone.

What was the process of making this video?

Originally I wanted the video to be artistically animated with watercolors or oils–colorful and lighthearted–but then we had a deadline! Looking out the window and seeing the misty rain, we both knew how great the light would be, so we sprang into action. I grabbed my red top, we went outside for some test videos and realized very quickly that we had what we wanted. For good measure, we brought out the piano and filmed the beginning and end of the song.

Mark moved the camera around me so I could interact with it more naturally and he could capture more of the setting. We worked quickly because of the threat of heavier rain, and we both knew what we wanted. The video was filmed and edited that day.

Beauty-05-2-3-2 — With grand piano, cello, double bass, acoustic guitar and unexpected background vocals, “Beauty of This World” is a wonderful introduction to spring and summer as nature blooms once again.

Having enchanted audiences across the globe and graced the stages of prestigious venues such as The Bitter End (NYC) and festivals like The Kerrville Folk Festival (TX) and Fairport’s Cropredy Convention (UK), Mad Agnes’ performances are nothing short of spectacular and leave an unforgettable impression wherever they go.

Catch up with their latest album “Likely Story” out now!

Stay up to date with Mad Agnes on their Website.

Check out all of Mad Agnes’ music on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube music.

04.12.24

by Jane Lambert

Experience the Raw Power of Maryen Cairns’ Latest Single “Give To The Chase”

Singer-songwriter Maryen Cairns’ latest single, “Give To The Chase” explores a profound connection to nature and her dual roles as both a mother and an artist.

The vivid imagery of her residing in an off-the-grid yurt while nurturing her children adds a layer of authenticity to her music.

Her choice to record the song in the solace of her home reflects the intimacy and personal nature of the track. This marked the start of a transformative journey which culminated in her 2002 album “Stories from the Red Tent” which explored women’s narrative and bonds within the sanctuary of The Red Tent.

The lyrics of “Give To The Chase” carry a poignant message about humanity’s relationship with the Earth, urging environmental consciousness and stewardship. Maryen’s solo performances amplify this message, transforming it into a rallying cry for a sustainable future.

Maryen’s adeptness at rhythm as well as owning a profound affinity with nature really shine through in her unique performance style. Her talent as both musician and storyteller is evident:

““Give to the Chase” is performed as a solo percussion & vocal piece… shamanic sound ringing in this song for our Mother Earth. Maryen is perched on a cajun with her feet utilising two pedals whilst wearing a rattle on one ankle, simultaneously playing a medicine drum & shaker whilst she sings.

Give to the Chase personifies Mother Earth herself, moving between singing as Mother Earth & singing as a member of the human race. A story of generations working to save the environment and live within nature, knowing that human’s race to survive, with only the fittest/strongest/smartest making it for the human race itself to survive.”

Maryen Cairns’ has received widespread acclaim over the past three decades, and is well known for her allegorical themes. She has most famously been guided under the mentorship of Rolling Stones producer, Chris Kimsey.

With her brand new album “One Woman Band, Live at Echotown Studios Vol. 1” due to be released on May 3rd, fans will be delighted to listen to a collection of songs that truly encapsulate her unique sound as well as offer a glimpse into her captivating solo performances.

Maryen Cairns’ music continues to captivate and inspire audiences, offering a reflection on life, nature, and our interconnectedness with the world around us which is often forgotten in the fast paced world today.

Keep up to date with Maryen Cairns:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music

Listen to Maryen’s New Single “Give To The Chase” on Spotify!

08.17.23

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyager: Deirdre Murphy’s “Sweet and Strong”

Singer/songwriter Deirdre Murphy is the creator of many original works of music, dance, theatre, circus, and performance art. It’s evident in the music video for her neo-folk song “Sweet and Strong.”

The video is a depiction of a beautiful, light hearted, and sweet celebration of life and friendship. It’s a pure showing of loving life through dance and movement. There has never been a more lively, happy, or delightful music video. It’s freeing to watch these friends interact with each other in such a loving and open way.

We got a chance to speak with Deirdre about the music video and her intentions behind hit:

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

This song has always called for a really physical video, in my mind. My friends and co-performers, Sean and Zsofia, are my training partners and former students. Zsofia asked me one day if her sister could come to class – she said, “She’s only 16 but she is sweet and she is strong.” And I went home and wrote the song. So it has that neat little tie-in, but also the song is about feeling really secure, really good, in your body and your surroundings which I wanted to get across in the video. My relationship with them routinely involves handstand training, acroyoga, many jokes, and bodywork/massage. I love the physicality of the practices themselves – the movement just feels good and practicing together is always great fun. I knew if I could get those elements captured, they would speak for themselves and they would speak visually for the song.

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

Last summer I took up a new hobby with a friend, of rose smelling. We centered our efforts in the rose garden nearest my friend’s house – the one in the video.

A little known fact that is after about 30 or 40 minutes of smelling the roses, you are absolutely drunk on them. Heady. Our extensive research found that not only does it make you drunk, but also that about one in every ten roses smells exquisite (while some barely have any scent at all!). We further noted that about one in every twenty is magical beyond explanation – transcendent. These are the ones that cause a person to stagger. I remember one particular rose that we couldn’t stop smelling for a full 15-20 minutes, knowing that when we left it we would most probably never find it again. As we spent more time there it occurred to me that it’d be the perfect place to shoot a video for this particular song – it’s very much about stopping to smell the roses and appreciating the little moments.

I would fully recommend rose smelling as a hobby, by the way. It’s free, it makes you drunk, and there’s no learning curve – you walk in at the top of your game!

What was the process of making this video?

The process was just as fun as it looks! We were lucky to work with the wonderful Hannah Bloom, who has a real eye for movement and did a beautiful job with the edit. She used a vintage lens – which I think really adds to the feel – sort of old timey, and highly textured what with all the leaves and vines. I was able to work closely with Hannah on the edit and it was really lovely – she was a pleasure to work with. Sean and Zsofia were in fine form and a lot of craic was had, as is always the case with those two.

Connect with Deirdre Murphy via:
Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Spotify / Apple Music