The Artist Explains: LUNA - 'Night Drive'
UK electronica artist LUNA speaks to us about her cinematic visuals for robust single ‘Night Drive’ which explores the idea of finding catharsis through self reflection.
Where was the video for ‘Night Drive’ filmed?
The video was filmed in Delamere Forest, Cheshire. I grew up around there, so it was lovely to go back and reconnect. The scenery is so beautiful.
How does the video connect with the song?
I wrote Night Drive during a visit back to my family home, sitting in the back of my friend’s car and staring out into the dark sky. I was thinking about who I had grown into; the people I had loved and subsequently lost along the way. I’m sure it’s the same for many, but returning home when it’s not quite your ‘home’ anymore, always evokes mixed feelings. But overall I felt nostalgic and contemplative... So returning to film the music video in the same place helped me revisit those emotions.
Do you have any behind the scenes stories you could share with us?
It was filmed in December, so as you can imagine, IT WAS SO COLD. Breaks between takes were spent star-jumping in two coats and being cuddled by my glamourous assistant Karis. I wish the tears in my eyes were genuine emotional expression, but actually I was just in numbing pain. There was also a Christmas tree fair on, so an abundance of families with dogs who were definitely puzzled by a girl parading round in just a dress...
Can you tell us about the ideas/themes/imagery used?
I knew from the off I wanted nature to be a prominent theme. Nature is omnipresent throughout the whole ‘Hello Earth’ EP - not only in the title, but in tracks Wind, Lay Like Stars and all the imagery used. I love comparing human feelings with elements - both are so raw and real. I was lucky enough to work with Robin Clewley, an incredibly talented photographer/videographer who really shared my vision. Instead of telling a story, we wanted to create a piece of cinematography, focusing less on a narrative and more on lighting, colours and scenery.
Is there a message the video is trying to convey?
That it’s okay to get lost in your own thoughts sometimes. It’s okay to go on a solo journey through your emotions; reflect on what you’ve been through. It may feel dark and lonely at the time, but it’s necessary to reach a place of acceptance and the subsequent feeling of release.
Interview by Karla Harris