The first in a series of short films, directed by the esteemed award-winning photographer Seamus Murphy, has premiered on PJ Harvey’s official web-site www.pjharvey.net this morning.Murphy has directed a series of short films to accompany all 12 songs on Harvey’s new album ‘Let England Shake’. ‘The Last Living Rose’ is the first to air and can be seen here: 

As mentioned previously, the 12 films will feature still and moving images from a 5,000 mile road-trip Murphy undertook around England. He has worked similarly with still photography on journeys through America and Russia.

 

Inspired and developed from themes in Harvey’s new album, the films were made in the manner of classic photographic reportage – recording real & spontaneous situations. They make up a visual diary of Murphy’s journey, travelling light and alone, and his attempt to document England and the English.

 

Murphy has mixed his observations on England with images from his work in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Middle East – places Polly refers to in her depiction of England.  The film soundtrack, the studio recording of the album ‘Let England Shake’, is mixed at times with footage and audio Murphy captured of Harvey in rehearsal and in performance. In addition some of the album lyrics were given a voice by people he encountered on his journey.

 

‘Let England Shake’ is set for release on Island Records on 14.02.2011 and Vagrant Records in the US on  15.02.2011.

 

For more information on Seamus Murphy go to http://seamusmurphy.com