Sometimes, the simplest statements are the most powerful ones, as evidenced by Anohni’s new video for “Crisis.” Formerly of Antony and The Johnsons, she recently released her debut album Hopelessness, which is nominated for 2016’s prestigious Mercury Prize.
The entire album is overtly political, it focuses on denouncing the atrocities of war, and increasingly grey line between civilians and enemy combatants, as the gross collateral damage caused specifically by American military action across the globe.
The video for “Drone Bomb Me,” (featuring none other than Naomi Campbell) shared some of the same characteristics as “Crisis”, namely the lip synching and tears.
“Crisis” is even more intense, as the camera focuses on performance artist Storm Lever’s face for the entirety of the video. She does not break contact, nor does the camera pan away at all.
By the time she starts crying, lipsynching emotionally affecting lyrics such as, “If I filled up your mass graves, and attacked your countries under false premise, I’m sorry”, you’ll may find tears streaming down your own face.
The simplicity and humanity hit home and creates a strong empathetic bond.
Watch the tear-jerker here, sometimes music isn’t just about entertainment.
