Aaron Lee Tasjan’s ‘Computer of Love’ tackles the threat of something we are all no strangers to – social media. While the subject matter is hardly new, Tasjan brings a playful fresh aspect into play highlighting both the madness and contradictions which seem to grow by the minute. He says –
“Social media is rich with irony these days. Melania Trump created an anti-online bullying initiative as First Lady. When you consider her husband’s Twitter account, it seems like something doesn’t quite add up? Social media platforms make stars out of people who go out of their way to never consider themselves or the consequences of their actions and it’s been great to see them start to address that in some way, but they, of course, need to do more and fast?”
As the title of his forthcoming album suggests, TASJAN! TASJAN! TASJAN! (out 5th February on New West) is an autobiographical offering on which his songs reflect on life-affirming stories of self-acceptance, whilst offering a unique self-deprecating critique on the millennial generation’s simultaneous capacity for great empathy, judgment and narcissism. He also examines his sexuality, mental health and dedicates the album to the alternative kids who felt “other” growing up.
For a series of videos (this is the second of a three-part space-themed series), Tasjan turned to American photographer and director from Mexico, Missouri – Curtis Wayne Millard who has also done some great photography for this release. He couldn’t have made a finer choice when it came to transforming the song into an 80’s retro-styled intergalactic odyssey. Tasjan has worked with the likes of Willie Nelson and also made Chuck Berry’s first, and only, music video…As Tasjan’s album fourth album is described as a masterclass in retro pop, vintage glam, 90s Anglophilia and psychedelic rock & roll, the match seems…and looks perfect.
Tasjan! Tasjan! Tasjan! will be available on 5th Feb 2021 across all digital platforms as well as on CD and standard black vinyl. A limited to 300 three-colour “twister” vinyl edition will be available exclusively via Vinyl Me, Please while a limited to 1,400 four-colour-splatter vinyl edition will be available at Independent Retailers and for pre-order NOW via New West Records.
Photo Credit: Curtis Wayne Millard