We clearly can’t get enough of Swimming Bell, the solo project of Brooklyn-based folk singer Katie Schottland. I chose ‘For Brinsley’ (from her album Wild Sight) as a Song of the Day back in March so when Katie offered us the premiere of the accompanying video it was a foregone conclusion.
The video which was shot by Oregonian photographer Jud Muir who is based in New York. It put in me in mind of Emma Tricca’s accompanying video for Solomon Said which was filmed on Super 8 by Julian Hand in New York. Although both videos may be conceptually different, they were both filmed in New York and really capture that sense of place, there is an incredible depth of intimacy to many of the scenes, it’s like we’re witnessing someone’s personal memories. They also share that vintage feel which just conveys a deeper sense of emotion, and is part of the reason I still prefer shooting film over digital…they also both play with light, creating a slightly trippy feel. The video was shot over the course of a summer and early fall and features scenes from New York City, Brooklyn, Riis Beach, and Hudson sewn together, create a montage and homage to life in the great city. It’s the perfect visual companion to what is one of my favourite songs of the year. Don’t miss her upcoming tour dates (see below).
For Brinsley was inspired by the British pub rock band, Brinsley Schwarz’s song titled Don’t Lose Your Grip on Love. Schottland had been listening to it incessantly while visiting a friend in California. For Brinsley is a conversation between Schottland’s desires to make the right choices and her opposing actions.
UPCOMING SHOWS
May 31 – New York, NY – Coney Island Baby
June 9 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge
June 16 – Huddersfield, UK – Northern Quarter
June 17 – Birmingham, UK – Kitchen Garden Cafe
July 13 – Somerville, MA – ArtBeat Festival
August 2 – Brooklyn, NY – Knitting Factory
August 25 – Providence, RI – Providence Folk Festival