Time is running out for Kris Allen.
Not, you know, metaphorically or anything like that. It's basically the plot of his brand-new video for "Live Like We're Dying," the first single from
his self-titled debut disc (due November 17). Time — here represented by a constantly diminishing digital clock located somewhere near an abandoned housing complex in the middle of the desert (no word if the Bluth Company put it there) — is eternally fleeting, and as such, we should live without fear or regret. Or, if you will, like we're dying.
And that just so happens to also be the plot of the song, a fantastic rock/pop hybrid originally written by Irish act the Script, then co-opted by Allen for his debut, somewhat understandably, since the song seems tailor-made for him. It plays to the strengths that carried him to the "American Idol" crown — his husky, broad voice, shuffly guitar playing and genuinely sweet disposition — and wraps them in a well-worn, subtly sexy tune, full of wide-eyed, dare we say inspirational sentiments. Yet, at the same time, it's also incredibly earnest in tone. Allen wants you to seize the bull by the horns, but he's not going to be pushy about it. He's a nice guy, after all.
But back to the video for a second here: It looks great (or certainly costly), full of artfully color-saturated frames and great expanses, recalling Snow Patrol's stylish "Run" clip and the Madonna/ Justin Timberlake vehicle "4 Minutes" (mostly in the clockological department). And, in a move that's commendable, it does away with the narrative crutch most "Idol" champs' debuts lean on (see, for example, David Cook's "Light On"), putting the focus squarely on Allen himself. This is his time. This is his show.
And while Allen's debut video isn't as flashy-dashy as "Idol" compatriot Adam Lambert's "Time for Miracles," it's just as good — mostly because, rather than rely on fiery explosions, "Dying" plays it straight, showcasing Allen and his talents. It's a bold move, indeed — Allen has never been known as "the flashy one" — but the folks at Jive Records are betting that his personality is all folks need to see.
Of course, it doesn't hurt that the song is Ebola catchy, either. Or that Allen is so incredibly likable that he seems to transcend fame, or at least seem unaffected by it. He's a good-looking, really nice kid. He can sing a bit. His video has a clock in it. It's not rocket science, after all — it's pop music.
This report is from MTV News.
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