Tune-Yards

tUnE-yArDs’ video for “Water Fountain”, from their forthcoming record Nikki Nack, was inspired by a beloved childhood favorite: Pee-Wee’s Playhouse. In the video, Merrill Garbus interacts with puppets, a scientist, ghosts, and a chef (played by her tUnE-yArDs partner Nate Brenner) who seemingly doesn’t know how to cook. It ends the logical way: with a dance party. In a statement, director Joel Kefali said:

When Merrill approached me wanting to make a video with a “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse” vibe I had to say yes. I’d had plenty of ideas for a kid’s show that had been waiting to see the light of day. I didn’t want to make a straight homage piece; there are moments of nostalgia in there but the video is our own modern, manic, collage of a kids show. Like many great kids shows I wanted to cram in as many ideas as possible and sneak in the occasional wink to the art world, contemporary and historic. The musical dynamic of “Water Fountain” lends itself perfectly to the concept and I think this video is best viewed while consuming a big bowl of cereal. Then again, what isn’t?

[Pitchfork]