Music Video Review: Xiu Xiu's "Grey Death"

Music Video Review

Xiu Xiu “Grey Death”

By our guest blogger, Megan O'Malley

The video for the Xiu Xiu new single “Grey Death” is an eerie piece of work. Their minimalist approach is not only unsettling--at times, it is down right creepy.

Xiu Xiu has long been known for their off-beat sensibilities, but “Grey Death” takes it to a whole new level. For the most part, viewers are unclear of what they are seeing because the camera work is shaky and jumping. The use of bright colors doesn’t make the video anymore light-hearted; instead, they merely highlight the darkness of the images on screen. This comes to a head when viewers see a woman lying in murky, water-colored green and later red--her face and the water itself is very reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining.” Xiu Xiu also uses a singular light for specific shots making the brightness much harsher against dark backdrops. This technique makes part of “Grey Death" look like an attempted snuff film, as viewers see someone being choked.

“Grey Death” the song is as eerie as the video. Singer Jamie Stewart wrenches at the listener making them feel the pain he’s singing about. His lyrics are painful and sad--there is no sense of hopefulness in this video or in this song. Xiu Xiu and their experimental art rock sound have moved into dark and dangerous territory with “Grey Death.” Established fans will surely enjoy this new movement of theirs, but newcomers beware this may not be the video or song to start with.

Grade: B-

Watch the video for "Grey Death" below. What are your thoughts?