In a vibrant nod to urban life and community, D.C. punk band Scream has introduced their latest music video for "Tum Tum." This catchy track from their recent album, DC Special, intertwines a personal narrative with the lively essence of Brooklyn's Flatbush neighborhood. The song is a fusion of punk and ska, presenting both a narrative about young love and a celebration of local culture. As the band gears up for a series of performances in the Northeast this weekend, they are not just sharing music but also fostering connections with their new home.
Formed in 1981, Scream emerged from the D.C. punk scene, which has historically been a breeding ground for innovative music and political expression. The band is known for their energetic performances and deeply-rooted community ties. They played an essential role in the D.C. hardcore punk movement alongside bands like Minor Threat and Bad Brains. After disbanding in 1990 and returning in recent years, Scream continues to evolve while staying grounded in their punk ethos.
The 2023 album DC Special marks a significant return to form after several decades. The record not only revisits their punk roots but also explores new musical styles and collaborative efforts. According to frontman Pete Stahl, Scream sought to incorporate local artist collaborations into their work, aiming to tell authentic stories that resonate with the present-day experience. This commitment to community shines through in the "Tum Tum" video.
In describing "Tum Tum," Stahl emphasizes its dual nature: a narrative about a young couple’s encounter and a tribute to Brooklyn's vibrant Flatbush area, where the band has been based for the last few years. This locality, known for its Caribbean heritage and rich cultural tapestry, serves as more than just a backdrop—it enhances the song's message of connection and shared experiences.
The video was produced in collaboration with community members, highlighting the essence of Flatbush. Stahl explains that the band wanted to ensure the portrayal of the neighborhood was respectful and authentic. They worked closely with local artists and musicians, including Flora Luccini (of Maafa and the 1865), who connected them to punk organizer Antonio Rodriguez. This grassroots approach allowed local talent Jason 'Biz' Lucas and Morgan Wordlaw to portray the film’s central characters, making the video a community effort.
Directed by NYC filmmaker John Pirozzi, the video reflects the dynamic energy of Flatbush, prominently featuring dollar vans—shared transportation that many rely on in Brooklyn and Queens. The visual experience encapsulates the neighborhood's vibrancy, blending everyday life with the themes of the song. As Stahl articulated, "In these fractured times, personal connections and communication can show us a better way forward together."
Scream’s effort to celebrate both their music and community will come alive this weekend as they perform three shows across the Northeast.
These performances not only showcase Scream's new material but also serve as a platform for local bands—thereby promoting the vibrant punk scene in the regions they visit.
As Scream steps back into the limelight, they carry the responsibility and joy of representing the punk legacy while integrating their new home’s culture into their work. DC Special and the "Tum Tum" video are emblematic of this ongoing journey—a blending of punk history with contemporary community narratives.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate more collaborations and initiatives from Scream as they continue to explore the intersection of music, community, and cultural representation. Their approach offers a blueprint for how musicians can engage with their surroundings meaningfully and creatively.
Through DC Special and the new video for "Tum Tum," Scream not only reaffirms its roots in the punk scene but also embraces the evolving narrative of local engagement. As they perform across the Northeast, their music serves as a conduit for broader community connections, showcasing the power of art in bringing people together.
"Tum Tum" tells a fun story about a young couple and their chance encounter, while simultaneously paying homage to the Flatbush neighborhood in Brooklyn.
The video creatively uses the setting of a dollar van, a common mode of transportation in Brooklyn, to reflect the vibrant and diverse atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Scream is set to perform in Bensalem, PA on March 21, Brooklyn, NY on March 22, and Kingston, NY on March 23.
Scream has taken a collaborative approach, working with local artists and leveraging their community ties to inform their music and videos.
The album explores themes of local experiences, cultural narratives, and community engagement, reflecting the band’s desire to connect and tell meaningful stories through their music.
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