I think I’m finally at the point in the lockdown where I’m going a little stir crazy. I’ve crafted a man out of my hoody, a pillow, and stuffed him with some clothes. His name’s Emmanuel, and he’s angry with me at the moment for stealing his crisps. I’ve also been thinking lately about crafting a catchphrase to open all the written pieces I do for Independent Music News. Something that people instantly recognise, and say “It’s a Stephen Billington piece, so you KNOW he’s opening it up with a ‘wham, woozy, wozzle’”. Unfortunately, my efforts thus far have been fruitless and, as a result, I’ve pulled out a large chunk of my beard in frustration.
Anyway, never mind that – it’s review time! I love getting the opportunity to introduce some excellent music and today is no exception; a borderline angelic song called Anima by Golan. It’s accompanying video is captivating to say the least; showcasing a remarkable dancer, as well as some unusually cryptic and fascinating scenes where someone throws a globe at a basketball hoop, a gent strips down to prepare for a chilly swim in an icy lake, whilst another bloke sees a window to another reality in the middle of a field, staring at it for an uncomfortably long time. It sounds outside the box, but it’s beyond that; it’s in a different postcode. It’s complex, and it’s devastatingly gorgeous.
The track itself opens with an ambient feel and echoing vocals that stop you in your tracks. It kicks in, and ups the tempo, and the instrumentation is unreal. The sentence “you’re always on my mind” repeats again and again, which has been described by Golan as more of an “obsessive statement”. Anima, by the nature of the song and the accompanying video, encourages interpretation by the individual. Meaning this could be about whatever your brain makes it out to be; a former or current love interest, I would wager the most likely. For me, it’s Nando’s. I just can’t wait for it to reopen, I miss their chicken wings so much. Sorry, got emotional there. Damn you, Golan, your music is making me feel things!
The video was shot by Nicu Dragan in the Republic of Moldova, in a bunch of semi-deserted locations. They are all stunningly beautiful shots, and the piece is incredibly creative. I can’t really give it enough praise, all I can provide you is a recommendation; check this video out, and after the fifth time you’ve replayed it, come back and give me a cheeky kiss. Nice.
Golan are releasing their long-awaited sophomore album towards the end of this year, and I can’t wait. Watch the video for Anima now to tie you over until then.
