Elle Evans
Despite the mayhem that struck 2020, it has still been a successful year for music, more specifically, in regards to the bridges being built between territories worldwide. An example of this is in the form of this hot new collaboration between Polish, hip-hop phenomena, Schafter and Slough-bred, London-based upcoming artist, Houston X titled “need help.”
The pair have remained consistent with their melodious and auto-tuned brand of rap over the past year and “need help” is another stellar example of the new wave trap permeating through the urban scene right now. The beat kicks off with rhythmic percussion which is layered by synthy impressions; atop both artists deliver fresh and flex worthy verses that detail their flashy lifestyles and fly-boy ways.
Combined with a clean visual accompaniment, shot in Warsaw and London - the video embodies the theme of the track which is inspired by the idea of trying to get away from something but being unable to, and perhaps enjoying the thrill of it along the way. Key visual influences are said to include the work of a video art pioneer -Nam June Paik, footage of Kate Moss under surveillance; as well as a set of music videos exploring the concept of someone being observed, both knowingly and unknowingly. Which is a very timely concept in an age where the rise of social media, has normalised virtual, 24-hour accessibility to billions of people across all platforms.
In addition to this, the music video was created in response to the restrictions that came with self-isolation and out of need to capture both artists in completely different countries. The CCTV channeled throughout provided a point of connection between the two narratives by utilising slick transitions, 25 TV screens, 12 CCTV cameras and 270 metres of cables.
Watch the music video for "need help" below.