Space and the desert, two terms that live in a world of their own. If we were to close our eyes and think of these words, what would come to mind? Would it be stars, the planets, or the brain-wrapping thoughts of the galaxy’s grandiose size? Or, would our imagination trail off to thoughts of hot springs, cacti, or bone drylands? With separate definitions put in place for the two concepts, it’s easy to scratch our heads and wonder, “how do they correlate?”
Well, this connection begins with only one word, and that’s Missio.
On April 15th, the electro-alternative band Missio premiered a film for their new EP Skeletons III, set to release on April 23rd. Launched by singer-songwriter Matthew Brue, and producer/instrumentalist David Butler, Skeletons III has propelled into the universe as a visual narrative that is formed through the lens of space meets the west seeing how the film was shot at Joshua Tree national park. A location that is known for its dry desert lands and stargazing. The combination of the worlds may seem counterintuitive, however, the coming together of the two environments built an alternative approach to creating serenity and finding humility within an end.
Split into five different sections, Skeletons III is a re-arrangement of the group’s previously launched work. This decision opens fans to a new style of the group’s already released songs, offering a modern approach to song reproduction.
I. “Vagabond”
II. “Losing my mind”
III. “Roman Empire”
IV. “Can you feel the sun”
V. “Do you realize”
When thinking of Skeletons III, if there would be any words to describe the visual experience, the word would have to be Prosody.
Prosody can be defined as “the way a composer sets the text of vocal composition in the assignment of syllables to notes in the melody to which the text is sung, or to set the music with regard to the ambiance of the lyrics.” To break it down, prosody is the sweet fusion of lyrics and visuals. If a singer were to have a lyric about the sun, then under the laws of prosody, a sun would appear. This musical execution allows for an artist to display the relationship within their work, and further, the conversation of a songs meaning. For Skeletons III, their usage of prosody allowed for a refined message to come across in every narrative.
From songs such as “Can You Feel The Sun” to “Losing My Mind,” the visual components help to add another tier when understanding what is communicated. And “Can You Feel The Sun” is the shining example of prosody. Tapping into the emotional restrictions that we place on ourselves when it comes to forming relationships, “Can You Feel The Sun” offers a discourse on how to break down these barriers. Paired with splendid visuals of Joshua Tree, the message is truly nailed in that we are all in this world together.
The smooth flow of Skeletons III and the fine visuals is something that allowed the film to gracefully tie together. From images of Joshua Tree’s twinkling night sky to the graceful ending, which shows an orbit around the earth as the lyrics “Growth comes with death” roared across the screen. Skeletons III truly shows us what can be when we accept all life has to offers, and what will be when we open our minds.
Like Missio? Then make sure to stay up with them on Instagram, Twitter, and Spotify.
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