Barbie Almalbis has just released a new music video for her track “Platonic.”
The newly released visualizer captures the Filipino alternative rock icon’s boundless energy on stage, as it follows her recent performance at the famed gig venue, Mow’s. Captured and directed by longtime friend and creative collaborator Niña Sandejas, the music video features documentary-style footage that highlights the colorful scenery of gig places such as Mow’s — whether it’s the rush of the mosh pit, euphoric nature of dance breaks, or even the thrill of the crowd surfing experience.
“This song is about loving people fiercely, unconditionally, generously, vulnerably, in a non-romantic context,” said Almalbis in an official press release. “Platonic love has been so enriching in my life, and I’ve really felt much less alone because I have deep friendships to count on or because I can be a friend to someone. I think the world would be less lonely if more people would embrace its joys.”
Watch the full music video below:
According to Sandejas, the entire concept of the music video came from the experience of attending several metal shows and noticing “the primal yet euphoric energy in the mosh pit.” “When I saw Barbie was playing Mow’s, it hit me; we have to document this,” said Sandejas in the press release. “Barbie starting a riot? That’s exciting. But of course, it had to be done with love. That’s what makes this different.”
Speaking of the experience, Sandejas describes it as “a rush,” adds Sandejas. “We stitched together this fast, chaotic blur of sweat and joy. My favorite moment? That loving pit Barbie asked for. She knew exactly how wild it would get and how to ground it in something beautiful.”
Almalbis’ “Platonic” serves as one of the standout tracks off her latest album, Not That Girl, which was released earlier this year. With the record produced by Nick Lazaro, their collaboration allowed the alt-rock musician to venture off into new sonic territories, including the heavier sound that “Platonic” itself dives right into. “I just said, Nick, I have something—can you make it metal?” Almalbis mentions before concluding, “He absolutely did.”
Not That Girl was also released on a limited edition vinyl format, pressed on 180-gram smokey red vinyl — exclusively available via Backspacer Records.
Listen to Barbie Almalbis’ latest album, Not That Girl, in its entirety below: