Live Review: Wafia leads the resistance in disconcerting new video for 'Bodies'

26 September 2017 | 9:05 am | Molly McLaughlin

The exciting artist's new video emphasises the political themes of 'Bodies' by creating a dystopic future, but Wafia won't go down without a fight.

Brisbane-based artist WAFIA has released an intense video to accompany her latest single 'Bodies', creating a dystopia where authoritarianism restricts individuals' self-expression. The video, directed by Alli Coates, explores the multitude of ways that humans can be divided and controlled, from imposed gender roles to constant surveillance. However, this triumphant anthem asserts that hope can be found in our communal humanity.

Wafia hopes the song will bring people together, “from crossing country borders with other families, to marching and protesting a shared belief, or even just a night out with friends.” She was inspired to write 'Bodies' by the struggles of her extended family in Syria, but it carries a universal message which has been channeled by the queer community and other minorities. "I never wanted the Bodies video to be literal or only portray my family's experience. Above all I wanted it to celebrate differences," she explains.

Somehow, Wafia has managed to create a party tune that is also a protest anthem. In the video, she stands tall as she sings into a megaphone: "Telling us to let go/ Saying the uprising ain't right/ But this is for us, what do they know?/ And we could do it all night." Her alt-pop sound is uniquely suited to the eerie, uncomfortable mood she creates here, while her angelic vocals reassure us that it will all be alright, eventually.

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Wafia's EP VIII comes out on October 13 via Future Classic. Catch her on tour at the below dates:

Fri 29 September - Oxford Art Factory, Sydney (w/ BUOY and special guests)

Thu 5 October - The Corner Hotel, Melbourne (w/ BUOY and special guests)

Mon 1 January - Field Day Festival, Sydney

Tickets at wafiamusic.com

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