Photo by Noelle Duquette
I’m not a very fun person. That probably comes as a surprise to the group of people who I regularly binge drink with, but the idea of taking an extended trip or even attending a music festival with a group of people makes me want to lock myself in my bedroom and never come out. One night of fun is a good time, two nights, are tiring, three plus nights? Sounds like prison.
This the concept behind May Rio of Poppies’ “Party Jail”. May Rio wrote the song during lockdown but the inspiration came from her experience on tour; the constant barrage of social commitments where she is expected to spend a week or so straight performing both on stage and off. What is meant to be a good time becomes a chore and then becomes a trap where suddenly you cannot even be present for the fun meant to be had. Going through the motions like clockwork while your mind seeks a break from the loud monotony.
The video, directed by Brandon Tyson, portrays this monotony with low lights and vivid colors. A searing red tinge permeates May Rio’s lounge singer performance as the scene flickers to images of half eaten food, slathered makeup, and wilting flowers.
May Rio has a gorgeous voice and a soft, fey like presence. The intimate image of her seated in the candlelight knitting a scarf feels peaceful and simple, a huge contrast to the scene that is implied by a “Party Jail”.
In truth, I very much enjoy a good party, but when I think of my happy place, I imagine myself curled up in my apartment, my cat on my lap, a book in hand. In that way, I certainly have had my fair share of experiences with “Party Jail”.
