Playlist: Alex Grossman

What’s the best music video you’ve seen recently and why?

Director Hugh Mulhern's work for Hak Baker - Telephones 4 Eyes is the best I've seen lately. 

Its capture of the energy of London as well as the track itself, coupled with creative visuals on what I imagine is a modest budget, makes it the best music video I've seen recently.

What's the first music video you remember being impressed by?

Aphex Twin - Windowlicker, directed by Chris Cunningham, was the first to leave a profound impression on me. Its satirical commentary on American gangsta hip-hop, combined with surreal visuals like the transformation of faces using masks and makeup, made it unforgettable. Its unique storytelling and satirical edge, set against the backdrop of Los Angeles and Santa Monica Beach, showcased a blend of humour and bizarre creativity that I deeply admired.

And what’s your all-time favourite music video?

My all-time favourite music video is a tough one but I am going with Aphex Twin - Windowlicker, as mentioned above and directed by Chris Cunningham. The innovative visuals and creativity showcased in this video were truly ahead of their time and it always stuck in my mind. 

What other directors/artists do you look to for inspiration?

Amara Abbas of Iconoclast and Hugh Mulhern of Riff Raff are two directors making waves with their fresh and innovative approaches. Abbas' vibrant work, especially her collaboration with Skrillex and Nai Barghouti on Xena, and Mulhern's compelling narrative for Hak Baker's music videos, exemplify the transformative power of creativity in the music video industry. Their ability to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant work keeps me inspired and stand out for me in the music video industry today.

What are you listening to at the moment?

Spotify labels my musical preferences as 'eclectic,'. My current rotation includes the likes of Arty Cooper's Something, the everlasting vibes of The Beatles' Tomorrow Never Knows, and the distinct beats of 21 Savage's Redrum. Not to forget Labrinth's Mount Everest and Young Fathers' Holy Ghost. Each track brings its own unique flavour and energy to my days.

What's your favourite bit of tech, whether for professional or personal use?

My fascination with the latest AI applications has significantly impacted both my professional and personal life. The efficiency and ease they bring to daily tasks have made them an indispensable part of my routine.

What artist(s) would you most like to work with and why?

Palma Pictures have recently worked with talents like Labrinth and Lewis Capaldi, their exceptional talents and unique perspectives make them ideal partners for creating groundbreaking work. It would be great to work with them again.