Florence and the Machine | Sweet Nothing

This is it. This is the track that fully tuned me in and wrapped me up in her world and all its wonder. And it wasn't just the song itself but video (directed by Vincent Haycock) that took hold.

This is my favorite music video.

And it's not enough to tell me that you care
We both know the words are empty air

The synthesis of the candid lyrics, emotionally spent vocals, the cool neon blue and bleeding red color pallets, the narrative rooted deep in this dark reality (quite the contrast of Welch’s typical fantasy worlds), the native sounds of this story world reeling us in a bit deeper, the editing that gracefully threads the backstory into the main narrative, the set dressing (gawk, that gold tinsel), the wardrobe (do you see that fur coat?! And the burgundy suit with a skinny tie — spot on — with the slicked back hair? Shoutout to HMU). And, of course, Welch’s performance. The undressing and trashing across stage to shed this life she’s become burdened by; her Sweet Release.

It’s an impeccably crafted video that packs a punch. I was hooked from the opening sequence, and so began my deep admiration for the Welch/Haycock creations that would come and always leave me yearning for more (mostly in the form of a desired full-length indie narrative staring Ms. Welch of which I'm still waiting hopeful for).

Video Credit: Nik Houser

In promotion for their upcoming album How Big How Blue How Beautiful, the band has been touring and performing a new arrangement of the song. Infused with ethereal background singers, a soothing harp and vocal embellishments, it's a more fantastical and delicate arrangement (akin to her earlier records) though just as poignant as the original.

0:46 says it all.

xxChris