It has been somewhere between three and four weeks (what is time) since the US has been in lockdown due to the coronavirus. The impacts of the virus can be felt all around the country, in some places more than others. Despite where you are, though, one thing is for sure: nobody knows how to think or feel right now. Is there a way to stay calm when things seem to be getting more and more out of control?
Well, Tyler and Josh from Twenty One Pilots have decided to address some of these thoughts on their new single, “Level of Concern.” Anyone who is “social distancing” and staying in quarantine will instantly connect with the track’s lyrics. But, if you cannot relate to “Panic on the brain, world has gone insane / Things are starting to get heavy” or the chorus, “Tell me we’re alright, tell me we’re okay,” then maybe you will be into the track’s sound. There is a definite “pop” energy present throughout the track, which is different from the usual “alt rock” sound we hear from the guys. If I had to label the vibe, I would go with “dream funk” – groovy guitar riffs, twinkling piano moments, and a lulling vocal melody to tie it all together.
The music video brings the song to life, literally. We see Josh and Tyler recording their parts for the track separately, putting the footage onto a flash drive, and then sealing the flash drive in an envelope that would go back and forth between their homes. Complete with Tyler’s signature dance moves, dramatic lighting, and appearances by their loved ones, it is a video that definitely eases some of your quarantine woes. You can check it out below!
Not only are musicians feeling the sting of the pandemic right now, but those who make touring and performing possible feel it as well. Twenty One Pilots stated, “With concerts on pause at the moment, crew members who are the backbone of live music are out of work. That’s why we’re dedicating a portion of proceeds from this song to Live Nation’s Crew Nation.” You can contribute here and here.
Keep up with Twenty One Pilots: Twitter // Facebook // Instagram // Website