Mark Pritchard and Thom Yorke are making waves once again with their latest single, ?Back in the Game.? This exciting collaboration showcases the unique artistry of both musicians, reigniting their creative partnership for fans to enjoy.
With over 30 years of experience in the electronic music scene, Mark Pritchard has established himself as a talented musician and producer. His collaboration with Thom Yorke, the iconic frontman of Radiohead and The Smile, dates back to 2016 when Yorke lent his voice to the track ?Beautiful People? from Pritchard?s acclaimed album, Under the Sun. Additionally, Pritchard has a rich history with Radiohead, having released remixes of their track ?Bloom? in 2011, featured on the TKOL RMX 1234567 compilation. This enduring partnership continues to evolve, captivating audiences with each new release.
?Back in the Game? retains the signature sound of their previous collaborations, featuring Yorke?s vocals processed through Pritchard?s innovative techniques. This time, the vocals are transformed using the H910 Harmonizer, which holds the distinction of being the first commercially-available digital audio effects device. This creative approach adds a distinctive layer to the track, enriching the listening experience while showcasing the duo?s prowess in blending technology with artistry.
Thom Yorke has been incorporating ?Back in the Game? into his live performances, much to the delight of fans. He first premiered the track during his solo tour in Christchurch, New Zealand, back in October. Since then, he has continued to feature this captivating song in every show of his tour, allowing audiences to experience the electrifying energy that comes from live renditions.
The release of ?Back in the Game? is accompanied by a visually stunning music video, crafted by director Jonathan Zawada. This surreal and kaleidoscopic visual experience blends both analog and digital techniques. Zawada shared that his initial concept for the video was inspired by a cocky, strutting portrayal reminiscent of John Travolta?s iconic character in Staying Alive, but with a darker twist that adds a layer of intrigue.
Zawada elaborated on his creative process, explaining that the visual representation evolved into a character adorned with a giant parade head, wearing a manic expression. This character?s endless march blurs the lines between aggression and celebration, reflecting the song’s lyrical depth. As he delved deeper into the lyrics, a grand concept emerged: a parade of diverse characters marching past a building where chaos unfolds as everything is thrown from the windows into a giant bonfire.
Eventually, the music video for ?Back in the Game? presents a vivid depiction of a blind celebration occurring amidst a backdrop of societal decay. This narrative explores how we assign value to our cultural expressions and collectively navigate the significant cultural transformations of the 21st century. The juxtaposition of joy and deterioration serves as a poignant commentary on the current state of civilization.
