Watch the new video by The Carringtons!

Quebec City-based garage punk outfit The Carringtons have introduced a new visual companion to their track "EMPTINESS," a song featured on their soon-to-be-released album, The Reunion. This latest offering highlights the band's raw energy and tight musicianship, underscoring their ongoing evolution within the punk scene.

The video for "EMPTINESS" was created under the direction and editing of Alexandre Gloutnez-Charron, a collaborator who also serves as the band's bassist. The production embraces a minimalist, DIY ethos, with the filming process completed in under three hours, prioritizing atmospheric authenticity over elaborate setups. This approach reflects the band’s commitment to crafting compelling art within practical constraints.

Musically, "EMPTINESS" stands out with its concise structure, clocking in at just around two minutes. The track delivers a punchy, rhythmic drive that the band members attribute to a deliberate effort to emulate the mechanical precision of a drum machine. Drummer Dave Chamberland adapted his usual forceful style to achieve a tighter, more repetitive beat, lending the song a distinctive percussive edge.

Complementing the rhythm section, the bass lines maintain a sharp, controlled presence, while the guitars introduce a biting intensity that punctuates the track with an almost chilling force. Additional layers, including synth elements, were incorporated near the final stages of production to enrich the song's texture without compromising its immediacy.

The Reunion, the album from which "EMPTINESS" is drawn, was recorded and mixed in Montreal by Adrian Popovich, a producer known for his work with various prominent rock acts. The project also benefited from input by Hugo Mudie of The Sainte Catherines, who contributed to arrangements and creative ideas, further shaping the album's sound.

Lead vocalist and guitarist Ben Fortier has described "EMPTINESS" as an exploration of void and disconnection, capturing a sense of internal desolation paired with a yearning for change that is ultimately stifled. This thematic core is reflected in both the lyrical content and the song’s stark musical delivery.

The video’s visual concept was carefully aligned with the album’s aesthetic vision. According to bassist and videographer Alex Charron, the goal was to craft visuals that resonate with the record’s mood without relying on elaborate production values. The project benefited significantly from the expertise of colorist Alexandre Richard, whose work was instrumental in achieving the desired cinematic look.

The Reunion is set for release on October 2, with "EMPTINESS" becoming available digitally the day prior. This rollout marks a significant moment for The Carringtons as they continue to solidify their presence in the garage punk landscape, combining a grassroots creative process with a sharpened sonic identity.

While details about the full tracklist and additional promotional plans remain limited, the early reception to "EMPTINESS" and its accompanying video suggests that The Carringtons are poised to make a notable impact with their forthcoming album. Their blend of stripped-down production and focused artistry exemplifies the enduring vitality of the DIY punk tradition in contemporary music.