The video, which stands in stark contrast to the original version which was released earlier this month, has echoes of classic science fiction films such as ‘Solaris‘, ‘Silent Running‘ and ‘Stalker‘.
“When Ben sent us this alternate version of the ‘Forgotten Days’ video, we were instantly taken aback at how a simple colour shift and change to aspect ratio transformed the feeling of the narrative”, explains singer/guitar player Brett Campbell of the Ben Meredith directed video. “This cinematic edition is dripping with oppressive claustrophobia, and in being stripped of colour, deepens the sense of the unknown lurking in the shadows of the mind. We’re happy to share it with you today.”
The Little Rock-based band released the title track and original video earlier this month (see below), immediately earning praise for the single.
Campbell, in discussing what is the first glimpse of what’s to come on the band’s eagerly-awaited album, said: “’ Forgotten Days’ is inspired by people in my family, and people getting to the age where people’s grandparents are facing the inevitable. Things that happen when you get old. It’s about your loss of identity while you’re aware it’s happening and how horrifying it is. I think it can also be applied to what makes you you.”
Bass player/songwriter Joseph Rowland added: “Forgotten Days is us exploring what is natural to us. The songs tell me where I need to go when I write. We wanted to focus on songs that were visceral and enjoyable to play live – that our audiences would enjoy experiencing. We’re also getting back to more of the groovier and heavier elements of PALLBEARER. “Heartless’ is fairly uptempo and technical. This one is a little more open, it hammers you.”
The Randall Dunn (Sunn O))), Earth, Johan Johannson) produced album was recorded at Sonic Ranch Studios in West Texas. Michael Lierly, drummer Mark Lierly’s brother, once again created the album’s artwork, crafting images that were roughly hewn yet heartbreaking in their expressive heft. The striking cover is the ideal foil to Pallbearer’s thick musical and lyrical melancholia.
Forgotten Days pre-orders are available now via this link.
Oran O’Beirne
www.overdrive.ie 2020