Shock Machine - “Shock Machine” (Official Video)

James Righton is probably best known for his contributions to the psych-raving Klaxons, but his new project is nothing to gloss over. The first offering from Righton’s Shock Machine comes via the eponymous single and matching set of visuals. “Shock Machine” is a vulnerable plea, perhaps with some underlying worries present under shimmering psych guitars and slow, subdued drums. There seems to be some apprehension on Righton’s part about his new venture, but it is expressed beautifully through this first foray. The aesthetic he contributed on the keyboards is present within the bright synth work, and it initially drives the track, but it is later enveloped by electric guitars for a huge crescendo as penetrating questions hit: “But do we need the Shock Machine?/ Will you follow me to the shock machine?” Done and done, if larger bodies of work are going to sound like this. The video is clever play of light and shadow with Righton silhouetted against bright backgrounds and seaside imagery which captures the spirit of the song perfectly. Director Saam Farahmand had this to say about the clip: “This video is a direct symbol of spiritual transition, and the influence of (late artist) Angus Fairhurst’s absent human cutouts. Transition is synonymous with James and Shock Machine. Everything felt right when we were shooting it.” Watch.