Today, Chicago’s soulful songwriter nicholas premieres his striking new music video for the intoxicating single ‘Capitali$er’ on Backseat Mafia. If you missed the track’s drop back in December, now’s the time to catch up. It’s a bold, drop-everything-and-listen kind of hit, wrapping breezy, soulful instrumentation around sharp political commentary. Fans of Gorillaz will feel right at home with its funky, hip-hop-esque pulse and thought-provoking lyrics.
Teaming up once again with frequent collaborator Tim Nagle (the visionary behind visuals for Twin Peaks, Lala Lala, and Post Animal), nicholas’ crafts a video that’s as layered as the track itself. Shot entirely in monochrome, it paints a stark portrait of Nick and Marcus Darling as they wander through Chicago’s urban sprawl. Adorned in keffiyeh scarves, they’re seen wandering in bright daylight, their movements contrasted by shadowy scenes lit by an artificial spotlight in the night. The backdrop is a maze of construction sites, adding a raw, industrial feel to the noir-inspired visuals. It’s a clever nod to the song’s theme of capitalism’s grip on society, presented with a gritty, cinematic aesthetic.
“This song was born in the belly of the beast — where our lives and our peace of mind come second to the almighty dollar bill,” Nick explains. “There is a growing awareness in industries across the globe that those who are owners prioritize profits over people. What does it mean to truly own something? You can’t take it with you in the end.”
Beneath the laid-back grooves and soulful melodies, ‘Capitali$er’ is a sharp critique of how money has warped political systems and how the ownership class puts profit over people. It’s a callout disguised as a bop—a danceable protest that’s as thought-provoking as it is catchy.
Backing him up is his trusted circle of collaborators: Marcus Darling (known for their work with Wyatt Waddell and clairice) lends vocals, guitar, and co-production, weaving in their signature sound. Eric Novak (The Curls, Dissonant Dessert) delivers a bassline that grooves effortlessly, while Steven Rutledge (Uma Bloo, Ari Lindo) brings the beat on drums.
Released as a standalone single, ‘Capitali$er’ follows a string of tracks that saw nicholas’ experimenting with a rotating cast of collaborators, as well as the vinyl release of his experimental soul debut album ‘HEAT ISLAND EFFECT’ (Shuga Records). It’s another bold step forward, a reminder of his knack for combining introspective lyrics with unforgettable hooks.
Image Credit: Tim Nagle
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