In active rock music, Upstate New York has been a hotbed for this undercurrent movement for decades. However, the scene hasn't produced many newer, hungry emerging acts like the mid-aughts Syracuse band, Brand New Sin, except for the Southern tier’s DramaScream. I’ve known the members of this band for a few years now but was aware of the band and their live show reputation for being fierce and devoted. So, getting the opportunity to strengthen a working relationship with the band and be invited to join them on a video shoot this fall was a cool opportunity. Lauren & Steve from the band have released many great videos in the past, including fan favorites such as “What I’ve Become” and “Phrenic.” Still, they recently released a powerful track called “Destroy Me,” which we all agreed deserved its own moment in the sun.
Our expedition began with a deliberate choice to traverse the scenic back roads from Syracuse, where my main office is based, to Binghamton, NY, where the band calls home. I joined my twin brother, who was directing the project, on the trip. We wanted to immerse ourselves in the charm of the journey and decided to prioritize the back roads, which were covered in mid-fall mists and warning signs of hunters prepping for the kickoff of the deer hunting season. This decision led us to a serendipitous encounter with a mysterious ambiance of silence along the roads with the occasional outburst of gunshots coming deep within the woods – its eerie ambiance providing an unexpected but fitting backdrop for the shoot.
Once we arrived at the final secluded location for the shoot, we realized how well it served as a canvas for DramaScream to channel the intensity of "Destroy Me." Against the backdrop of dense foliage, the band's performance resonated with authenticity, capturing the raw emotion embedded in their music. Navigating the challenges posed by weather fluctuations and occasional wildlife disruptions, the team's resilience underscored the unwavering commitment to the project. Behind the scenes, a dedicated and skilled group of artists worked effortlessly to ensure a genuine, raw performance was carried out for DramaScream's vision.
In the fading daylight, our efforts culminated in a music video that not only visually encapsulated the essence of "Destroy Me" but also reflected the passion and dedication invested in its creation. This behind-the-scenes journey offers a glimpse into the meticulous artistry and collaborative spirit that define DramaScream's commitment to delivering an immersive and thrilling experience for its audience. Not pictured: me and the band at a local dive bar after the shoot, enjoying wings and a Bills game.
