The Script are doing something a little different ahead of the release of their new album The User’s Guide To Being Human – turning its songs into the soundtrack for a four-part microdrama.
Directed by Charles Mehling, the short-form series follows an Irish pub owner facing the difficult decision of having to let members of staff go in order to keep the business afloat.
Then a storm arrives.
With the local community trapped inside the pub together, their individual stories, relationships and heartaches begin to unfold, soundtracked by music from the band’s upcoming album.
The idea ties into one of the themes running through The User’s Guide To Being Human: what happens to genuine human connection when so much of our lives is spent looking at and swiping through screens.
Microdramas originated in China and have quickly grown in popularity, with short episodes designed particularly for people watching on their phones. For The Script, the format offers an interesting way of introducing the stories and ideas behind their new music without simply releasing another collection of traditional music videos.
Fans won’t have long to wait to see how it all comes together either.
The first episode will premiered on YouTube today with a new instalment released each day until 12 August. All four episodes will then be brought together as one short film on 13 August, the day before The User’s Guide To Being Human is released.
Danny O’Donoghue says, “We’re very excited to be entering this space as The Script have always been a very visual band. Our songs are mini movies, so putting them to screen just seemed obvious. We see it as the way forward — combining music with visuals in a drama format that sits perfectly on social media. It’s the fastest growing sector in entertainment and we’re delighted to be part of it.”
It’s an unusual way to introduce an album, but one that feels particularly fitting for a record exploring how we connect with each other. Rather than simply talking about putting down our screens, The Script are using those very screens to tell a story about the people behind them.
‘The User’s Guide To Being Human’ album is available to pre-order / pre-save HERE. It is available on CD and limited transparent vinyl while the band’s official artist store also stocks exclusive merch bundles and a cassette.
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