The Libertines- Don't Look Back Into The Sun

This video for 'Don't Look Back Into The Sun' is set in London using a live action performance as well as a narrative of the band acting as tourists in the city. They visit the high streets and walk around dressed in a marching band type style of clothing. These red coats suggest the indie style that the band has and could refer to the 'Britishness' of the band, this is also supported by the fact they are in England's capital, London. Their clothing overall is a mixture of casual (particularly on stage) yet costumed to undoubtedly make a statement. The colours vary through the video, featuring both bright red and black. These colours reflect the ups and downs the band has had collectively. 

The storyline of the video reflects the bands rebellious attitude and care free lives.  The performance is simple and mostly focuses on the music in the song. The song has no real storyline and reflects the bands state at the time, (Pete Doherty had recently been realised from jail). They mention forgiveness and letting go in the song which again reflects their their personal lives. The fact that there is no set storyline shows lead singer Pete Dohertys personality, this is supported with the lyrics from the song 'Don't Look Back Into The Sun'.

The performance is simple and affective with them playing at an enclosed venue. This sets the band at the same level as the audience for the performance. Also the lack of technical equipment (lighting, smoke machines etc) emphasizes the emotion of the song.

 Screen shots from the music video Don't Look Back Into The Sun

The Libertines- Can't Stand Me Now

Screen shots from the music video Can't Stand Me Now

This video for 'Can't Stand Me Now' includes a live action performance of the band. The gig was at Kentish Town Forum and was shot to promote the bands' first single from the second album. 

The video reflects 'outcast teens' as the lyrics portray this idea, 'Can't Stand Me Now'. In the video their clothing is dark and fits a stereotypical indie style. The bands clothing shows their individualism,presenting to their audience their personalities. The lighting is also dark and the band are shown as bright figures on stage. The video shows fans trying to get onto stage with the band, the band seem to ignore the fact they are there which shows their rebellious attitude. For the remainder of the video the Libertines are jumping around and engaging with the fans. There are quick flashing shots of the band performing, this reflects their lives and the fast pace they live in. The black and white parts of the video provide a rustic feel and reflect the roots of original indie/alternative music. This is shown with the simplicity of the shots.

The video has no real narrative, like most of the Libertines videos. The song 'Can't Stand Me Now' can be interpreted in the video as the band act in a rebellious manner. Their performance gives viewers an idea of what it would be like to see them play live, this is a promotion technique used to build a hype around the band.

 

Arctic Monkeys- I Bet You Look Good On The Dance floor

I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor was Arctic Monkeys' first single and music video. The video is a live recording of the band playing to a small crowd with both the video and audio taken live. The video is shot with cameras  from the 1970s in which an aged effect was created. The video reflects the bands indie rock style through the composition.  The performance gives an initial impression of the band and their music.

Their clothing is simple and plain and would typically represent an indie style. It is easy to tell this is their first video with its simplicity and the natural shots used. Their personalities are shown through their confident stage presence and attitude. The setting and stage is also simple and sets the band at the same level as the audience, making them connect in the performance.

There is not a clear narrative in the video as it is predominately only a performance. This is a common theme in indie/alternative music videos as for these bands/artists it is vital to show their stage presence and focus on the music.

Screen shots from the music video I Bet You Look Good On The Dance Floor