Recently, Portland electro-rock group Unknown Mortal Orchestra released a new stand-alone single, ‘First World Problem.’ The track continued on where their last album Multi-Love left off, encompassing classic funk grooves with catchy hooks and just a dash of disco, as well as some sly commentary on the contemporary world.
Dancers Kiani del Valle and Derek Shiesel have directed a new video for the track, in which both of them get to show off their moves. As well as some beautifully choreographed sequences, the video is also striking, telling the narrative through dance and bold lighting choices. Watch below.
Del Valle spoke about the concept behind the video: “With ‘First World Problem,’ I aimed to create a dialogue between both art forms. I wanted the video to be the response to Ruban’s lyrics and musical melodies rather than showing literally what the song is saying. There are always two sides to one story and the video piece is her side of the story.”
He continued: “I am a heavy fan of silent films and how unspoken language could add a second layer to the one we speak. The directorial collaboration with James Lees came really organically as we have been planning for a while to do something together. James is really good at storytelling and has a great eye, while I am more abstract and conceptual. Producer Jason Baum was the key element of magic, making everything happen gracefully.”
