Mr. West is back with another single. Double negative aside, this is classic (cliche?) Kanye. Addictively melodic sample? Check. Lyrical lamentation over the materialism of hip hop with timely references to diamonds and handbags? Check. Uninspired flow with awkward rhyme schemes? Check.
From the look of the video, Mr. West got a deal on the set (or digital composite) Linkin Park used for What I’ve Done and hired a crew, model, and wind machine to recreate a four and a half minute version of the writhing oracle chick from the movie 300.
This is an alternate video for the song that just happens to be superior in every way. Starring Zach Galifianakis and directed, shot, and edited by Michael Blieden, this video is a wonderful juxtaposition of hip hop swagger against a backdrop of southern redneck scenery. Opening with Galifianakis firing up a chain saw in what must be retribution against whomever wrote “I <3 Turds” on his face, we’re immediately sure we’re not going to see a normal rap video. Less parody (although there is hilarious tractor booty shaking) and more atmospheric oddity, the video is beautifully shot and edited. I particularly like the silhouetted Galifianakis scenes, accenting his lumberjack beard. I also like the authenticity of the young girl dancers, none of which are “Hollywood”. That reminds me of another great video that took place in a field - Blind Melon’s “No Rain”.
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Justin Dickinson
