Deerhunter is an established American rock band that can most broadly be classified under Indie rock, however more specifically categorized as shoegaze or garage rock. Lead vocalist and guitarist Bradford Cox has also been quoted as describing the band’s sound as “ambient punk”. Fading Frontier, released in October of 2015 , is the newest addition to Deerhunter’s discography and holds true to their classic garage sound with Cox’s distinguishable voice integrated into the instrumentals. Fading Frontier is the band’s sixth studio album in addition to several EP’s, split albums, and singles released since their formation in 2001.
The lead track on the album “Snakeskin” was released as a Single with the accompanying music video. This is Deerhunter’s fifth official music video and like the others, it is confusing, hypnotizing, stylistic, and not a surprise from the band. “Snakeskin” starts off with an in your face hit sequence that leads to the first downbeat of the track. This initial energy is what puts the track in motion and sets the tone for the next four minutes. The accompanying music video appropriately cuts from yellow snakeskin matching the beat of the hits and then focuses on Cox in center frame, sitting in a home library dressed in nothing but overalls and a hat. The symmetry throughout the video is typical Deerhunter and something viewers have come to expect, however what sets apart this video from their others is the intentionally clear and choppiness of scenes. Fans are used to Deerhunter music videos consisting of double exposure with usually fog, static, or anything abstract against Cox’s face blended in. We infact see this type of effect and projection later in the video, but the initial visual clarity aligns itself perfectly with the new energy of the song. Cox has an enigmatic personality which is precisely what gives Deerhunter the edge that they have managed to capitalize on for over a decade, and it is evident throughout this video. If unfamiliar with the band, this video may seem strange, weird and even uncomfortable. If the music is muted and only the video is played, the vibe completely changes and the eccentric personality of the band and its leader prevail. This quite obviously proves the importance of persona and style to the band beyond just their music. This characteristic style also lends itself to the lyrics of “Snakeskin” and all Deerhunter tracks. With “Snakeskin” inparticular, there are a few different interpretations of what the lyrics mean as well as no correct answer.
The whole point of Deerhunter is making their music into art and into an experience. Whatever is taken away from that experience by listeners whether good, bad or inbetween is the motive of the band. Feeling anything at all and stimulating thought, reaction, judgement, etc. is why Deerhunter continues to do what they do so well. This track is worth a listen because it not only accurately encompasses the band unabridged, but it provides a steady groove through the typical and interesting bassline, Cox’s famous vocal phrasing, and overall captivative pulse.
