Watch the Genesis Owusu music video for DEATH CULT ZOMBIE on ABC Rage
Under the scorching sun, the desert sands stretch endlessly, with eerie creatures slowly emerging from the shadows in search of their next victim. In the midst of this barren landscape, Genesis Owusu roars through the terrain in a dune buggy, trying to evade the monstrous undead that lurk nearby. This surreal scene may seem like a metaphorical journey, but for Genesis Owusu, it is a stark reflection of the chaotic world we live in today.
Genesis Owusu, known for his thought-provoking and symbolic storytelling, decided to take a more direct approach with his latest project, “DEATH CULT ZOMBIE.” In a time of widespread misinformation and confusion, he felt compelled to convey his message with clarity and boldness. “I’m used to my world-building being steeped in metaphor and literary reference,” Genesis explains, “but in this time of global gaslighting and mass psychosis, it’d be detrimental to obscure what I’m trying to say in any more ambiguity, writing-wise.”
Director Isaac Brown, the visionary behind the visually stunning music video, drew inspiration from classic horror films like “28 Days Later.” The eerie atmosphere of the movie seeped into his subconscious, influencing the haunting visuals of “DEATH CULT ZOMBIE.” Brown recalls, “You know when what you’re watching bleeds into your dreams, like you can still hear it? I think that definitely informed some of ‘DEATH CULT ZOMBIE.’ Plus, now I’m afraid to go to sleep.”
Filming took place just before and after Genesis Owusu’s electrifying performance at Harvest Rock Festival in Adelaide. Remarkably, the zombie dancers required minimal makeup, as they effortlessly transformed into the undead after a night of revelry in the festival’s rave tent (or so they joke). During Genesis’ set, a zombie dancer managed to sneak on stage, adding an unexpected twist to the performance. Brown reflects on the surreal moment, stating, “seeing one of our creatures come to life in front of a festival crowd was a pretty special moment.”
The concept of “DEATH CULT ZOMBIE” provided a wealth of visual inspiration for the team, allowing them to create a thrilling and comedic homage to classic zombie films like “Thriller.” Opting for a more action-packed and lighthearted approach, they brought the adrenaline-fueled chase flick to life amidst the rugged beauty of Port Augusta’s sand dunes. Genesis remarks, “because the phrase ‘DEATH CULT ZOMBIE’ has so much imagery to it already, it gave us the space to be really literal with the visuals… and create a fun, classic, zombie chase flick, paying homage to the greats (like Thriller) just in time for Halloween.”
In conclusion, “DEATH CULT ZOMBIE” is not just a music video; it is a statement—a reflection of the turbulent times we live in and a reminder to confront our fears head-on. As Genesis Owusu and his team push boundaries and explore new avenues of creativity, their work continues to captivate audiences and provoke thought.