From the mysticism of the Cantabrian forest to the world, comes Amanda Mur. A classically trained musician in piano and voice, this strict traditional approach to creation works beneath the surface. Presenting her first single Mutante, she is interested in “the constant awakening of freshness and novelty”, as well as beauty in the details, subjugation and power.
She melds electronics with classical instrumentation and songwriting, creating smart and beautiful work that explores hybridity. Born in Cantabria, Amanda Mur is releasing her debut album Neu Om on the catalan label La Castanya. Mutante, out today, has a clear intention, as set out by the directors Lucía Toral and G. Hernandez, “The concept of the video for Mutante aims to connect nature and avant-garde, contrasting the different worlds where Amanda Mur’s song lives.” Mutante takes us to explore a wooded path by a cascading river with the artist dressed in white lashes in the snow. There’s a sense of magic as she invites viewers to be mutants, “si quieres ser mutante”, but this time it sounds like there are conditions, “no le digas quién eres” in english, don’t tell them who you are. The release seems steeped in mystery.
The directors go on to explain, “The video juxtaposes black-and-white imagery and a 4:3 aspect ratio with contemporary styling and makeup. The shots are contemplative and cinematic, with vintage lenses adding weight and depth to the ARRI camera footage. The editing challenge was to balance stillness and dynamism, playing with multiple layers of meaning and techniques like double exposures to unravel the song’s universe.” As the shots jump from dark interior scenes with traditional looking dressed characters, a perplexing swinging crystal and Amanda Mur’s searching eye we get a sense of play with the idea of being seen, known or perceived.
A key part of that is fashion, on which they add, “The styling, featuring outfits by emerging Spanish designers, creates a contrast with the wild surroundings, while the makeup enhances the gaze and face of Amanda Mur, who radiates strength and uniqueness in every frame of the piece.” As the folk and electronica sounds flow, there’s a sense of elegant balance.