Role Model (Tucker Pilsbury) is back with a new music video for his single ‘High Hopes 3000’ and it marks the beginning of a new era for the singer/songwriter. Director Danica Kleinknecht has delivered a music video that aligns perfectly with the song’s nature of yearning, high energy, and emotional uncertainty. The music video stands as a first visual for Role Model’s new album ‘Chuck Timely & The Hourglass’, which introduces listeners and audiences alike to a nostalgic and movie-like world, whilst sticking to the singer’s signature country pop vibe and trademark. 

A strength of the video is the atmosphere created by both Kleinknecht and Pilsbury, which is developed by creating a visual that mirrors the song’s central idea: the choice of believing in something better, whilst knowing disappointment might be just around the corner. The video really embraces the Americana stylised aesthetics, which keeps it quite simple but effectively reflects the genre of Pilsbury’s music. With the scenes heavy on the roller skating everywhere,  the cigarettes, and the garage, the video allows viewers to drift through the scenes that feel both familiar and strange at the same time. 

The performance from Pilsbury himself is understated, but it works really well. He never overplays the act throughout, instead letting the small expressions tell the story and communicate the emotions woven into the track. The chilled-out energy that’s presented in this music video has always been one of his strengths as an artist, and Kleinknecht’s directing skills show she knew exactly how to use it. 

Kleinknecht also deserves credit for her ability to balance irony and sincerity. The project contains moments of playfulness and scenes of self-awareness, but it never undermines the emotional demeanour or purpose of the song. Similar to the single, it mirrors the conflict of confidence and doubt, as well as romance and delusion. 

Overall, the music video excels because it feels like the track and the video reflect each other. Kleinknecht and Pilsbury have created something that feels cohesive and has a purpose alongside his music. The song’s themes of hope, love, and optimism are translated into a visual that expands the story rather than just illustrating what he’s already said in words. It’s a really solid introduction into the next era of Role Model’s music and a visually memorable project. 

Neve Pomfrey

@Nevepomfreyy

Image: ‘High Hopes 3000’ Official Single Cover

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