The typical structure of a song has one singular theme. This theme creates an emotional response from the audience and builds a connection. Now, in the case of Eleanor Kingston's new track, Don't Cry, we get the best of both worlds. The songs euphoric and delicate first half gives us permission to cry, but that doesn't last long as the second half gives you permission to be manic. Eleanor told me, "Two polar opposite emotions, sadness & ecstasy, co-exist in this short song displaying the roller-coaster of emotions every person can feel on a day to day basis." In a world right now where society is beginning to open up more about mental health, I think this song couldn't have come at a better time.
Now Ripdaydream, a longtime collaborator with Eleanor Kingston, had the task of putting these lyrics and emotions on a screen. Two different experiences only need a simple cut to show visually. This is boring and I don't recommend confining yourself in a box. The team thought bigger and started a DIY journey. First step was building a fake window set. This way to make Eleanor appear to be in a home. Just as her calm and gentle voice enters your ears, she walks off-set into a vast desert landscape that shines light on being able to heal.
Transitioning to our second act, we wanted to give the audience a question, "are you ready?". What is about to happen is madness, and the goal is for your mind to ignite on all cylinders. That is what is so fun with having two halves to a video and creates a dynamic range of aesthetics. This was the first collaboration with Matthew Crawford, a Gaffer from Los Angeles, and it opened for more hectic lighting. Each frame has something new going on that makes the viewer pay attention. Eleanor gives us two sides of herself with a well put together video and we thank her for it.