In the self-directed video for early 2020 single “Nobody’s Favourite,” Mobley’s trapped in a seemingly inescapable mansion, being monitored by a trio of villainous vice regents. Today, the musician and filmmaker continues the story with “James Crow.”
“You’re a devil in a daydream,” intones the singer to the titular “James Crow,” a reference to America’s so-called “Jim Crow” systems of social, economic, and artistic oppression against African Americans. The film-like clip, derived from one continuous shot, features the Austin creative performing in a nightclub while his tormentors convene in an adjoining Japanese restaurant. Actress Brittaney Ortiz, who appears to rescue Mobley in the “Nobody’s Favourite” video, returns in “James Crow” to cause some problems for the antagonists.
Both segments will figure into a larger narrative coinciding with Mobley’s Young & Dying in the Occident Supreme EP early next year.
Meanwhile, the multi-instrumentalist pop crafter also announces a Curbside Tour of Austin, in which he’ll arrive outside the houses of select fans and perform the single. Performances will be for one family at a time, take place from at least a 12-meter distance, and he’ll be wearing a PPE mask. You can enter to win a curbside concert here.
Here comes “James Crow” right here:
This article appears in September 11 • 2020.