The Artist Explains: Cat Clyde - 'All The Black'

Cat Clyde talks to us about the creative process behind her surreal visuals for her brooding, blues-infused single, ‘All The Black’.


Where was the video for 'All The Black' filmed? 
The video was filmed in Kansas City, at an air B&B. 

How does the video connect with the song? 
I think the video connects with the song aesthetically, and sonically. The song is very spacious and dark and each change from verse to chorus kind of feels as though you are moving from one room to another, but with a underlying connection. The colours are mostly vivid and dark, and the lighter colours are very dreamy and kind of spooky which I feel really resonates with the vibe of the song. The images and themes are bizarre, but in a kind of sad, hopeless way. 

Do you have any behind the scenes stories you could share with us?
The shoot took around 15 hours straight and everyone involved worked constantly to make the set changes, props, and rooms become something magical. It was extremely impressive and it was a pleasure to work with such driven, awesome people. 

Could you tell us about the ideas/ themes/ imagery used? 
The video was directed by Christopher Goode, all the ideas, imagery and themes came from him. I was sent an initial draft of the concept, and thought "Wow, this is really cool. How the hell is this going to be pulled off?" Basically the video goes between several rooms, each with their own themes but all connected by the tendrils coming out of the dress I am wearing at the table. The grass room, toxic bathroom, moon room, main room, muck kitchen, desert room, and bathroom each have their own stories within them but all connecting to the main room, where I am singing the song to a man with his head wrapped in a red cloth. 

Is there a message the video is trying to convey?

I don't necessarily think there is a particular message, but just a feeling. A sad, dark, strange peek into the house manifestation of the main characters mind. A glimpse behind the curtain you could say. I hope the imagery of the video leaves the viewer feeling a little strange, and sad. And hopefully they can connect with the lyrics and how they unfold as the story is unfurled on the screen.

Interview feature by Karla Harris