By Cynthia Gross
On February 27, Ottawa, Canada-based alternative electronic duo Apollo Rising released a music video for their latest song, “Where Are We Going.” Directed by Novoviso Production, the video complements the track’s exploration of how to create a path forward despite being uncertain of the outcome.
The video begins with pianist and vocalist Danick Coutu and drummer Colvin Gallant performing at what appears to be an open mic for local bands. After a heartfelt performance of their original song, “Daydreamer,” the band is applauded by their enthusiastic audience: a lone person in the bar. They soon leave the venue, voicing their shared frustration with the frank reality that things are “honestly just getting embarrassing at this point.”
Following the failed performance, Apollo Rising takes to passing their time drinking, watching TV on the couch, and returning to meaningless corporate jobs until their spark is reunited by recognizing their old selves in a young busker who performs music on the street as if she’s on a big stage. The video juxtaposes grimy alleyway scenes with stunning aerial shots of the band performing in the great outdoors of their native hometown, which is symbolic of the tension between who they are and who they want to be.
“Where Are We Going” is essentially a rousing comeback story in which audiences can see themselves clearly. “Depicting the band’s struggle to re-discover their love and passion for music, the music video captures themes of depression, addiction, disillusionment, and the power of choice,” Apollo Rising explains.
Lyrics, including the chorus, “Give just a little more if you can / Say what you wanted / Maybe we can make it through the passing of the seasons / Find yourself the reasons to make your great escape,” allow the song to serve as a universal call-to-action. “Where Are We Going” channels our inner warrior, reminding us that only we can put in the work to change our circumstances.
The video closes with Apollo Rising performing once again at the same bar. Although their audience does not show a marked improvement (this time, it’s the janitor), we get the sense that their new confidence will allow them to overcome.
Fans of Two Door Cinema Club and Twenty One Pilots will identify with Apollo Rising’s compelling indie sound and signature songwriting that stands apart from the rest. Follow our Alchemical Multigenre Mixdown playlist for more great music featured on the site.
Cynthia Gross is a freelance writer and award-winning spiritual pop artist based in Maryland. With more than a decade of experience as an executive ghostwriter, she understands the power of each individual’s voice to create positive, meaningful change.
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Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
