Transviolet’s new “Drugs In California” video depicts a dystopian world where the feeling of fame has been synthesized, and you can take a diamond pill to feel adored. But like the real thing, this glamorous drug comes with horrifying side effects.
About the Video
“Director Kyle Vorbach, Cinematographer Skyler Bocciolatt and I wanted to create a dystopian world where the feeling of fame had been synthesized, and you could take a diamond pill to feel adored. But like the real thing, this glamorous drug comes with horrifying side effects.
The high of performing has been something I’ve been craving desperately during this pandemic. It’s weird to put out music and not know if you’ll ever get to play it live. Being on stage is a place where I feel completely liberated, completely myself. Feeling heard, loved and connected is what inspired me to start making music in the first place. I think it can be really beautiful to receive that from others, but I’m also grateful I’ve had this time away, where I had to face some demons, and learn how to give those things to myself.
I’m really proud of this video, and that we were able to get creative and pull it off safely. Kyle directed the video remotely from New York, and at times would be giving directions via zoom! He also did all the editing and CGI which is absolutely mind blowing. Skyler shot it so beautifully, and stylist Savanna Chonis really nailed the grotesquely glamorous vibe. It all came together better than I could have ever imagined.” Sarah McTaggart (Transviolet)
Watch the “Drugs in California” Music Video
About the Song
“Drugs in California is a song about a toxic relationship. Specifically, it’s about a toxic relationship between fame and adoration. I’d always felt sort of ambivalent to fame. it always just seemed like an inconvenient side effect to making music that I might have to endure one day if things went really well. I felt like I could prepare myself for it. I’ve had small tastes of fame now, but it’s nothing like I anticipated.
It’s weird because I wouldn’t think of myself as famous, but the truth is, to some people, I am famous. I won’t lie to you, it feels amazing to have people connect with my work so deeply- to feel so seen, understood, and appreciated- to be adored. However, that feeling can be really addictive, even destructive. it’s made me question myself- who I am, my intentions, my integrity; at times it’s made me feel isolated and disconnected from people. it’s fucked with my head more than anything else I’ve ever experienced. should I want this? should I not want this? I still don’t know.”- Sarah McTaggart (Transviolet)
“Dark and moody pop song that landed them somewhere between XYLO and Lana Del Rey.”- Complex
Great song and video.
Can’t wait for the tour!