Playlist: MOM

What's the best music video you've seen recently and why?

Doechii - Crazy stuns with its striking aesthetic and flawless choreography, while Camila Cabello - I Luv It leaves an even stronger mark. 

The video’s controlled chaos mirrors the song's rebellious energy, with  Cabello's raw attitude shining through. What sets it apart is its layered symbolism, rare in modern pop. A standout moment features a cop chopping down a tree, symbolising patriarchal control. 

Later, the video reveals Cabello atop it, defiantly reclaiming agency. The video blends surreal visuals with sharp social commentary on gender roles and autonomy.  I Luv It sparks real conversation in a world of glossy, surface-level pop videos.

What's the first music video you remember being impressed by?

The golden era of TRL left an indelible mark on us, with videos like Aaliyah - Try Again and Missy Elliott - Hot Boyz sparking my early love for music visuals. 

But the one we revisit endlessly, and one that redefined our understanding of the art form, is Gesaffelstein - Pursuit. Directed by Fleur & Manu, the video is a hypnotic single-take, weaving visceral symbolism about voyeurism, human instinct, and the duality of violence and desire. Its unbroken tracking shot pulls viewers into a surreal underworld, where every frame feels like a fever dream balancing between chaos and control.

And what's your all-time favourite music video?

Baby Keem - Issues is a minimalist masterpiece, using stark imagery to tell a powerful story. A lone figure on a bike race through a barren desert, chased by a helicopter’s spotlight, a symbol of systemic oppression. The dim streetlight where he once slept with his grandmother underscores his sacrifices, while the climax forces a heart-wrenching choice: surrender or face death. 

What other directors/artists do you look to for inspiration?

Narrowing it down is tough, but a few names stand out: Terrence Malick, Solomon Lighthelm, Sterlin Harjo, Hito Steyerl, and Nicholas Galanin would be the ones who come to mind. Each of these artists brings a unique perspective, yet they all share a gift for evoking deep emotion through striking work. 

Sterlin Harjo is particularly notable for his commitment to authentic representation, hiring an almost entirely Native cast and crew, while Nicholas Galanin’s Native Land left a lasting impression on us, its Hollywood-style sign on Native land is a bold, large-scale statement that powerfully centres the land-back movement. We deeply admire this kind of work and strive to create with the same level of meaning and impact.

What are you listening to at the moment?

We listen to a wide range of music across genres and moods. Lately, we've been drawn to the introspective sounds of Raye, Ama Lou, Leon Thomas, FKA twigs, and Orion Sun, while also exploring the electronic textures of Gordo and Tourist. Dave brings infectious energy and sharp storytelling on the rap side, while Mogwai's atmospheric post-rock offers a completely different, immersive experience.

What's your favourite bit of tech, whether for professional or personal use?

Our wireless communication system is essential to how we work. We use a personal seven-headset comm system on every set, ensuring seamless and efficient collaboration. In an industry where time is precious, staying in constant contact with the entire team is essential, it keeps workflows smooth and allows us to maintain a calm, focused environment. With this system, there's no need to raise your voice or disrupt the set; communication is clear, immediate, and effortless, no matter the distance.

What artist(s) would you most like to work with and why?

Sevdaliza is a visionary. Her ability to address complex themes through a uniquely expressive lens is rare in the music video space. Her work is both thought-provoking and visually striking. As a mother, she brings a deeply personal perspective to her art, often exploring motherhood with raw emotion and depth. This adds another layer of meaning to her work, allowing audiences to connect with her on a profound level.