We spend our days and nights navigating through the web, our inboxes, and the various scary social media rabbit holes to make sure you can watch music videos online on AltSounds, uninterrupted by bollocks. As we’re digging around we come across some super weird music videos that’ll make your brain melt. These trippy music videos take on their own visual and audio journey and truly take you to a new dimension.
So if this is your thing and you want to just sit back and watch some weird-ass music videos then you’re in the right place my friend. Below we’ll give you an awesome collection of best trippy music videos to drool over. Be careful though, these may freak you out a little, especially when you’re high.
The trippiest music videos to watch now
So here we go, a run down of the song, who is the mad director behind the video, the date and the link to go watch it if you really feel that you can handle it. See you on the other side and if you have some tunes to add with an additional mad music video you can submit your music to us.
In no particular order of trippy visual crazyness…
TOOL – Parabola
Directed by: Adam Jones
April 25, 2002
https://altsounds.tv/8i10
The TOOL “Parabola” music video is a masterful exploration of consciousness, the physical realm, and the transcendence of the human spirit, encapsulating the band's penchant for merging their deep, philosophical lyrics with visually stunning and thought-provoking imagery. Directed by Adam Jones, TOOL's guitarist known for his visual artistry, the video is a compelling journey through surreal landscapes that mirror the song's exploration of the ephemeral nature of existence and the eternal essence of the soul.
Concept and Visuals
“Parabola” is not just a music video; it's an experience. The video opens with live-action sequences that gradually morph into a vivid, animated odyssey. It incorporates a mix of CGI and stop-motion animation, creating a visually trippy experience that perfectly complements the song's themes. The imagery is rich with symbolic elements, from the transformation of human figures into pure, energetic forms to the depiction of a lotus flower, which traditionally represents rebirth and spiritual enlightenment.
Themes and Interpretation
At its core, the “Parabola” music video delves into the concept of duality—life and death, light and darkness, physical and spiritual—and the connection between them. The lyrics, “This body holding me reminds me of my own mortality… But the pain is an illusion,” serve as a meditation on the temporary nature of physical existence and the illusion of separation from the universe.
One of the most striking aspects of the video is its ability to blend the abstract and the concrete, inviting viewers to interpret its meaning in their own way. The transformation scenes, where the physical form disintegrates into a state of pure energy, can be seen as a representation of transcending the physical plane and realizing the oneness of all existence.
Technical Mastery and Reception
The technical execution of the “Parabola” video is a testament to TOOL's commitment to their artistic vision. The seamless integration of different animation techniques with live-action footage required a level of precision and creativity that set new standards for music videos at the time. It's a prime example of how the band uses visual media not just to accompany their music but to deepen and expand the listener's engagement with the song's themes.
Upon its release, the “Parabola” music video received widespread acclaim for its artistic ambition and execution. It was celebrated not only by TOOL fans but also by critics and enthusiasts of visual art, contributing to the band's reputation as innovators both musically and visually.
The TOOL “Parabola” music video stands as a monumental achievement in the fusion of music and visual art, offering a deeply immersive experience that goes beyond the conventional. It's a vivid, visual representation of the band's exploration of existential themes, inviting viewers to ponder their own existence and the nature of reality. In the landscape of music videos, “Parabola” remains a unique and enduring work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its profound beauty and complexity.
Bonobo – Kerala
Directed by: Bison
November 8, 2016
https://altsounds.tv/oq9g
The Bonobo “Kerala” music video is a riveting piece of visual art that stands out for its innovative narrative technique and emotional depth. Directed by Bison, it features Gemma Arterton in a compelling lead role, capturing a series of frantic, looping sequences that beautifully complement the track's lush, intricate layers of sound. “Kerala” is a track from Bonobo's 2017 album “Migration,” and the video is a testament to the producer's ability to blend diverse musical textures with equally complex visual narratives.
Concept and Execution
The video for “Kerala” is striking in its approach, utilizing a unique looping effect that plays with the concept of time and perspective. It portrays the protagonist, played by Arterton, experiencing a series of intense, repetitive events that blur the lines between reality and perception. This looping narrative not only matches the hypnotic rhythm of the song but also adds a layer of psychological depth, suggesting themes of memory, trauma, and the cyclical nature of human experience.
Technical Innovation
One of the most remarkable aspects of the “Kerala” music video is its technical execution. The seamless looping effect is achieved through meticulous planning and editing, creating a sense of disorientation and unease that mirrors the song's frantic energy. This technique is not just a visual gimmick but a narrative tool that enhances the storytelling, drawing the viewer deeper into the protagonist's emotional state.
Symbolism and Themes
The video is rich in symbolism, with each loop adding to the complexity of the narrative. The recurring motifs and characters the protagonist encounters serve as both literal and metaphorical elements, inviting viewers to interpret the video in multiple ways. The fragmented, looping narrative can be seen as a reflection on the nature of memory and perception, suggesting how our experiences shape and distort our understanding of the world.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, the “Kerala” music video was praised for its originality and emotional resonance. It showcases Bonobo's knack for creating music that not only sounds beautiful but also evokes a deep emotional response. The video's innovative narrative structure and visual techniques were highlighted as groundbreaking, contributing to the song's impact and helping it to stand out in the crowded music scene.
The “Kerala” music video by Bonobo is a masterclass in visual storytelling, perfectly complementing the song's rich sonic landscape. Its innovative use of looping sequences and emotional depth makes it a compelling watch, inviting multiple viewings to unpack its layers of meaning. As a piece of visual art, it goes beyond mere accompaniment to the music, offering a profound, immersive experience that resonates with viewers long after the video ends. This video not only cements Bonobo's reputation as a visionary in the electronic music scene but also pushes the boundaries of what music videos can achieve as a form of storytelling.
Flying Lotus – Post Requisite
Directed by: Winston Hacking
November 19, 2017
https://altsounds.tv/mj7a
The Flying Lotus “Post Requisite” music video is a mesmerizing journey through a surreal, animated landscape that perfectly encapsulates the artist's experimental and boundary-pushing sound. Released as a part of the promotion for his 2019 album “Flamagra,” the video serves as a visual feast that complements the eclectic mix of electronic, hip-hop, and jazz influences present in Flying Lotus's music.
Visuals and Animation
Directed by Winston Hacking, the “Post Requisite” video is a collage animation that brings to life a kaleidoscope of bizarre and fantastical imagery. The technique involves layering cutouts from various sources to create a dynamic, ever-evolving scene that feels both chaotic and intricately ordered. This method perfectly mirrors Flying Lotus's production style, which often layers complex rhythms and textures to create his unique soundscapes.
Themes and Interpretation
“Post Requisite” dives into themes of rebirth, evolution, and the cyclical nature of existence. The video's rapid-fire imagery includes everything from human figures undergoing transformations to abstract, cosmic visuals, suggesting a journey through creation, destruction, and renewal. This aligns with the broader themes of “Flamagra,” which often explores the concept of fire as both a destructive force and a catalyst for new life.
The frenetic pace and overwhelming density of the visuals invite viewers to interpret the video in their own way, finding meaning in the chaos. This open-ended approach to storytelling is a hallmark of Flying Lotus's work, encouraging a personal and introspective experience rather than prescribing a single narrative.
Technical Mastery
The “Post Requisite” music video stands out for its technical mastery and creative vision. The collage animation technique requires a meticulous assembly of disparate elements to create a cohesive whole. Winston Hacking's direction ensures that each frame is packed with detail and movement, making the video a rich tapestry that rewards repeat viewings. The seamless blend of animation with Flying Lotus's music enhances the overall experience, creating a synesthetic effect that is both visually arresting and sonically immersive.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “Post Requisite” was lauded for its innovative approach to music video production and its ability to visually articulate the complex themes present in Flying Lotus's music. Critics and fans alike praised the video for its creativity, depth, and the way it pushes the boundaries of what can be achieved in the medium of music videos.
The video not only serves as a powerful visual complement to the “Flamagra” album but also reinforces Flying Lotus's reputation as an artist who transcends musical categories. It showcases his commitment to exploring new artistic territories and his ability to collaborate with visual artists to create works that are as thought-provoking and multifaceted as his music.
The “Post Requisite” music video by Flying Lotus is a testament to the power of visual art to expand and deepen the impact of music. Its intricate collage animation, combined with the artist's signature sound, creates an unforgettable experience that blurs the lines between the auditory and the visual. This video exemplifies how music videos can be much more than promotional tools; they can be standalone works of art that enrich and elaborate on the themes of the music they accompany. “Post Requisite” is a vivid, imaginative journey that perfectly captures the essence of Flying Lotus's artistic vision.
David Bowie – Lazarus (R.I.P.)
Directed by: Johan Renck
January 10, 2016
https://altsounds.tv/k3pa
The David Bowie “Lazarus” music video, released just days before his tragic passing in January 2016, stands as a poignant farewell from one of music's most iconic figures. Directed by Johan Renck, the video is a haunting, introspective work that serves as a powerful component of Bowie's final album, “Blackstar.” Laden with symbolism and a sense of foreboding, “Lazarus” is not just a music video but a final masterpiece from an artist who was always ahead of his time.
Visuals and Symbolism
The “Lazarus” video features Bowie in a hospital bed, his eyes bandaged, with buttons sewn over them. This imagery is both unsettling and profoundly symbolic, evoking themes of blindness, insight, and the transition from one state of being to another. The video oscillates between scenes of Bowie confined to the bed and him standing, frenetically writing at a desk, suggesting a struggle between creativity, mortality, and the afterlife.
The stark, minimalist setting of the video contrasts with the rich complexity of its symbolism. References to Bowie's own life and career abound, including nods to his earlier personas and works. The title “Lazarus” itself evokes the biblical story of resurrection, hinting at Bowie's own awareness of his impending death and his legacy's enduring nature.
Themes and Interpretation
“Lazarus” explores themes of mortality, legacy, and the artist's relationship with his own mythology. The video, with its spectral atmosphere and imagery of confinement, suggests a meditation on the end of life and the transition to what lies beyond. Bowie's performance is both vulnerable and defiant, embodying the dualities that defined much of his career.
The video's open-ended nature and rich symbolic language have led to numerous interpretations, with fans and critics alike seeing it as Bowie's farewell message, a reflection on his career, and a commentary on the nature of fame and identity. The line “Look up here, I'm in heaven” is particularly poignant, serving as a direct acknowledgment of his own mortality.
Technical Execution and Reception
Johan Renck's direction captures the essence of Bowie's vision with a stark, powerful visual style that complements the song's lyrical themes. The video's cinematography, with its muted color palette and careful framing, enhances the feeling of isolation and introspection.
Upon its release, “Lazarus” was met with critical acclaim, with many noting its emotional depth and the way it seemed to foreshadow Bowie's death. The video quickly became a focal point for fans mourning the loss of a legend, serving as a reminder of Bowie's genius and his ability to communicate complex emotions through his art and search for meaning in every audio visual moment.
The “Lazarus” music video is a testament to David Bowie's enduring creativity and his ability to engage with profound themes in a deeply personal way. It stands as a final, indelible mark of an artist confronting his own mortality and leaving behind a piece of work that resonates with universal themes of life, death, and rebirth. As both a part of the “Blackstar” album and a standalone work, “Lazarus” encapsulates the mystery, innovation, and emotional depth that defined Bowie's career, offering a haunting yet beautiful farewell from one of music's most transformative figures.
Massive Attack – Voodoo In My Blood
Directed by: Ringan Ledwidge
February 23, 2016
https://altsounds.tv/c6ie
The Massive Attack “Voodoo In My Blood” music video is an intense, captivating piece that stands as a testament to the band's continued innovation and willingness to explore dark, complex themes through their music and visuals. Released in 2016 as part of their “Ritual Spirit” EP, the video features a mesmerizing performance by actress Rosamund Pike and is directed by Ringan Ledwidge, known for his powerful and evocative visual storytelling.
Concept and Visuals
Set in a stark, clinical subway tunnel, the video begins with Pike encountering a floating, spherical drone. What follows is a chilling interaction where the sphere seems to possess and control her, leading to a series of violent and erratic movements. The clinical, almost sterile environment of the subway contrasts sharply with the primal, chaotic actions that unfold, creating a powerful visual metaphor for the song's themes of inner turmoil and the struggle between control and liberation.
The sphere itself, with its smooth, almost alien appearance, serves as a potent symbol of external control or influence, inviting interpretations related to technology, surveillance, and the loss of autonomy in the modern world. Pike's transformation under its influence is both disturbing and compelling, highlighting her struggle against an unseen force that seeks to dominate her.
Themes and Interpretation
“Voodoo In My Blood” delves into themes of control, possession, and the darker aspects of the human psyche. The video's portrayal of Pike being controlled by the drone can be seen as a metaphor for various forms of manipulation and influence, whether societal, technological, or psychological. Her frenzied dance and expressions of fear and ecstasy capture the complex relationship between individual agency and external forces.
The title itself, “Voodoo In My Blood,” suggests an inherent, almost primal force within that can be awakened or manipulated, further emphasizing the tension between the natural and the artificial, the internal and the external. This tension is a recurring theme in Massive Attack's work, which often explores the intersection of technology and humanity.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, the “Voodoo In My Blood” music video was praised for its boldness and originality, as well as Pike's intense, uninhibited performance. Critics and fans alike were captivated by the video's ability to provoke thought and evoke a visceral response, marking it as a significant work in the band's visual repertoire.
The video's unsettling, provocative nature sparked discussions about the meaning behind the imagery and the broader implications for society's relationship with technology and control. Its open-endedness and ambiguity allow for multiple interpretations, making it a piece that continues to engage and disturb viewers.
The Massive Attack “Voodoo In My Blood” music video is a powerful exploration of the themes of control, influence, and the struggle for autonomy. Its stark visuals, combined with Rosamund Pike's compelling performance, create a haunting narrative that complements the track's brooding intensity. This video stands as a testament to Massive Attack's enduring ability to push boundaries and provoke thought, remaining a significant and thought-provoking piece in the landscape of music videos. Through “Voodoo In My Blood,” Massive Attack continues to explore the complexities of the human condition, challenging viewers to confront the unseen forces that shape our lives.
OK Go – Upside Down & Inside Out
Directors: Damian Kulash Jr., Trish Sie
July 31, 2016
https://altsounds.tv/bpi5
The OK Go “Upside Down & Inside Out” music video is a remarkable feat of creativity and technical ingenuity, showcasing the band's hallmark for producing wildly inventive and visually captivating videos. Released in 2016, this video takes the viewer on a gravity-defying journey aboard a reduced gravity aircraft, perfectly synchronizing the band's antics with the song's upbeat tempo. Directed by the band's members, Damian Kulash, Jr. and Trish Sie, the video continues OK Go's tradition of pushing the boundaries of the music video as an art form.
Concept and Visual Execution
The video is shot in a single, continuous take aboard a plane that performs parabolic maneuvers to create brief periods of weightlessness, similar to how astronauts train for space missions. Throughout the video, the band members and several acrobats perform a meticulously choreographed routine that involves floating, tumbling, and interacting with various props, including laptops, paint, and even a couple of piñatas.
The use of zero gravity as the central element of the video allows for a playful yet surreal exploration of movement and space. This choice not only complements the song's energetic vibe but also visually represents the song's themes of disorientation and exhilaration. The absence of cuts or edits adds to the video's authenticity, making the viewer feel as though they are part of this extraordinary experience.
Technical Challenges and Innovation
Filming “Upside Down & Inside Out” posed significant technical challenges, requiring precise timing and coordination to match the song's progression with the periods of weightlessness. The band and crew underwent rigorous training to prepare for the shoot, and the video was the result of numerous takes to capture the perfect sequence of events. This dedication to achieving their creative vision, despite the physical and logistical obstacles, underscores OK Go's commitment to innovation and their hands-on approach to their music videos.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “Upside Down & Inside Out” was met with widespread acclaim, quickly becoming a viral sensation. Viewers were amazed by the video's seamless execution and the band's ability to transform a complex scientific principle into a visually stunning and entertaining piece. Critics praised the video for its originality and for pushing the limits of what can be achieved in a music video, further cementing OK Go's reputation as pioneers in the field.
The video also sparked interest in the science behind zero-gravity flights, providing an educational aspect that resonated with audiences beyond the music industry. This blend of entertainment, science, and artistry is a hallmark of OK Go's work, demonstrating their unique ability to engage and inspire curiosity across a wide range of viewers.
The OK Go “Upside Down & Inside Out” music video is a testament to the band's ingenuity, creativity, and willingness to explore new territories in the realm of music videos. It stands as a vivid example of how music and visual art can come together to create something truly innovative and memorable. By challenging themselves and their audience to see the world from a different perspective, OK Go continues to redefine the possibilities of the music video format, leaving a lasting impact on both the music and visual arts communities.