Song-and-video project unites Hamburg-based trio Songraes with BAFTA award-winning film director David Arthur. The result is thought-provoking and utterly inspiring.

A SONG; A FILM

Songraes are Hamburg-based trio Hannes Klock, Anja McCloskey and lead singer Leo Bruges. Recently, the trio released their 2nd EP, Distance, on Sotones Records. Distance is something of a sonic experience, combining – as it does – an eclectic selection of rare and authentic instruments – ondes Martenot (an early electronic keyboard), celeste, mellotron and more – with layered multi-harmony vocals.

Taken from the EP, Wind, the trio’s new single, is an exploration of the themes of isolation and loneliness. It’s potent in itself but, when heard in conjunction with its accompanying video, it’s truly thought-provoking and utterly inspiring. Directed by BAFTA award-winning Scottish film maker David Arthur, the video stars David Hayman and Elysia Welch. Let me say it right now: it’s a must watch.

Speaking about how the song inspired the video, Director David says: “I was listening to the track on repeat whilst visiting my dad [who was suffering from dementia]. My dad would sometimes believe he had appointments from his past or try to go out walking. Something was no longer able to do due to his lack of mobility. Reversing the process of becoming immobile and the mind returning to earlier places became something I wanted to explore in the film.” Taking up the story, the film’s lead actor, David Hayman, added: “[David Arthur’s] story resonated with me because, when you get to my age, you realise that dementia could be just around the corner.”

AN INSPIRING TRANSFORMATION

Even without the visual impact provided by the video, Wind is a thoroughly absorbing song. The tone of the gently-plucked acoustic guitar becomes warmer as the song gets underway, reflecting the warmth and sincerity in Leo’s voice. The lyrics: “Just keep on – don’t look below” and “Climbing up this mountainside, I’m not running, hiding – still – I jump and fly” are inspiring in their own right. The sound matures as the song progresses with strings, bass accordion and a choir adding richness and emphasising the song’s underlying message: Anything can be possible for anyone.

And, of course, the video underwrites that message in clear, bold capitals. David Hayman’s depiction of the transformation of a dementia and immobility-afflicted patient into a sprightly – yet still elderly – joyful human being is heartwarming. As is the role of the female spirt – played by Elysia – who provides the encouragement for the transformation. I heartily recommend that you watch for yourselves.

Sadly, one week after the filming of the video was completed, David Arthur’s father passed away. Somehow, that final twist adds a special poignancy to this intriguing project.

See for yourself: Watch David Arthur’s stirring video to Wind below:

Songraes: Official Website

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