Every now and then, it’s good to take a moment to remember that music isn’t something that needs to be taken too seriously. In fact, now would be a great moment, and Papillon Rising’s video for “Things Are Looking Up” is the perfect reminder. This twist-filled ride through the streets of Düsseldorf is quite possibly the most fun you’ll have watching a music video all year, complete with a track that is as unapologetically funky as they come.
Slap bass, colorful suits straight out of 1973, and alien spaceships are a recipe for a good time, and “Things Are Looking Up” has all three. Add to that a massive dose of charisma, and you wind up with a visual that all but forces you to smile. As the duo struts through the city, inadvertently ruining the day of everyone they cross paths with, we’re treated with everything from cold dance moves, to top-shelf slapstick, and even a twist-ending that would give Shutter Island a run for its money. The song itself is stupidly catchy, perfectly goofy, and even a bit inspiring, with lyrics like “The grass is greener on that side, and the ass is meaner on that bride”. While Papillon Rising clearly make an effort not to take themselves too seriously, they certainly take their craft seriously.
Things are looking upYeah we’re coming to the twist of the storyThings are looking upMy mama told me better brave than sorry
If you find yourself turning up your nose and reaching for the back button as Papillon Rising’s “time glider” zooms across the sky, I implore you to hold off for just another few seconds. Because, if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself legitimately laughing out loud and nodding along soon enough. Just be warned, there’s a good chance the song’s chorus will be making a nest in your brain for at least the next day or two…
