2018 has certainly been a hell of a year for music. Here, the Midwest Action staff pulled their favorites from a year characterized by standout creative work to form our Best of 2018 lists. Check out our six favorite music videos from 2018 below.
“Big Operation” by The Bingers
This amazing piece of animation truly redefines the idea of a simple “lyric video”. The stark monochromatic tone pairs perfectly with the songs already dark and slightly morbid narrative. The song is a killer surf rock jam that is made exponentially better through this fantastic little video.
–Dan Jarvis
“TDMAD (The Devil Bought Me A Drink)” by Melo Makes Music
I first discovered Chicago rapper Melo Makes Music through the Hideout’s SXSW Send-Off, and I’ve loved his output ever since. This asylum-inspired video takes you on a journey as Melo, literally and metaphorically, escapes his mind in a track that explores mental illness/wellness. It also features a third-verse not on his full-length Hold Your Tongue, making it a must-see for fans.
–Alyssa Lee
“Microscope” by Emily Blue
A wonderfully colourful video that manages to reinforce the clinical robot pop with some creepy mannequin performances.
–Dale Price
“Dogs in Nylon” by Sunglow (New Trash)
The video is just so weird, and I can’t not watch it. In between shots of crop topped men and synchronized dance moves, you might notice something a little more sinister lurking. You’ll never look at milkmen the same way again.
–Alyssa Lee
“Prozac Spaceman” by Faux Co
Dancing astronauts, mullets, inflatable instruments, and a few super furry animals make this video a psychedelic green-screen dream. The song itself is an equally out of this world ’60s tinged pop groove.
–Dan Jarvis
“You’ll Be Fine” by Kevin and Hell
Do y’all remember Cyriak? While Cyriak didn’t animate this video, it feels eerily similar to his work, and I’m in weird-love with it. In this, an army of Kevin and Hells hang out against a technicolor background in what feels like a shoe-in on [adultswim]’s airwaves.
–Alyssa Lee
Honorable Mention: The entire DZ Records video catalog and film crew
Led by mastermind Ben Arguelles, the video team at DZ Records have been churning out quality live music performances for over half a decade now. Their YouTube channel is treasure trove of local and touring acts alike that have passed through their Hickory Hills basement or graced the stage at their yearly summer fest. Peruse their archives and follow their channel for new videos every month.
Best of 2018
ALBUMS • EPS • SONGS • MUSIC VIDEOS • VINYL RELEASES • CASSETTE RELEASES