Jesse Clegg and Msaki Release Short Film for “Awake in the Nighttime”
Jesse Clegg and Msaki have unveiled the official video for “Awake in the Nighttime,” marking Episode 1 of the Entropy EP short film. The project is part of the larger Entropy EP and represents a unique fusion of music and cinematic storytelling. Produced by CO Films with support from Sunday Studio, the video delivers a visual and auditory exploration of emotional turbulence, cityscapes, and personal introspection. Directed and shot by Marty Bleazard, the film features actors Ditebogo Mandita and Ally Damon, bringing the lyrics to life through intimate and expressive performances. From lighting and styling to hair, makeup, and color grading, a skilled team contributed to the polished aesthetic, creating a compelling viewing experience that complements the EP’s sonic landscape.
“Awake in the Nighttime” reflects themes of disorientation, change, and self-reflection, conveyed through evocative lyrics and atmospheric production. Lines like “Empty streets, trembling hands upon the wheel, I’m shook with disbelief” and “City lights a blurry haze inside a fever dream” communicate a sense of unrest and searching for clarity. The song captures the tension between personal uncertainty and the desire to regain control, while the repetition of “Been awake in the nighttime” emphasizes the ongoing struggle of sleepless reflection. Jesse Clegg’s emotive delivery and Msaki’s nuanced vocal contributions enhance the song’s introspective nature, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the narrative. The lyrics confront themes of entropy, impermanence, and the challenges of reconciling aspirations with reality, positioning the track as both personal and universal.
The production of the video highlights meticulous collaboration across multiple disciplines. Nombuso Ngcobo served as producer and hair/makeup artist, supported by assistants Mahlatse Chepape and Kotela Makotanyane, while lighting was managed by Alan Thorpe and Steven Moubane with Larren Knell assisting. Stylist Namhla Thiwani crafted the visual identity alongside her assistant, ensuring the characters’ presentation reflected the tone of the narrative. Johann De Klerk handled color grading to enhance the mood, and the project was supported by Sunshine Co and Nicholas Brown for gear, while catering was provided by The Bowery. Each member of the team contributed to a cohesive artistic vision, creating a cinematic interpretation of the song that emphasizes emotional depth, visual poetry, and thematic resonance.
Beyond its visual artistry, “Awake in the Nighttime” establishes a strong connection with the EP’s broader narrative and musical exploration. The song navigates emotional vulnerability, existential questioning, and the struggle to find peace amid uncertainty. The video amplifies these themes by pairing the haunting cityscape imagery with close-up moments of introspection, allowing audiences to experience the tension and release conveyed in the lyrics. By integrating music, film, and performance, Jesse Clegg and Msaki demonstrate the versatility of modern storytelling in the music industry, bridging auditory and visual mediums to enhance engagement. The project’s release across streaming platforms ensures accessibility, while its cinematic approach positions it as a standout piece within the South African music scene.
“Awake in the Nighttime” serves as an evocative introduction to the Entropy EP short film series, signaling a commitment to artistic experimentation and multimedia storytelling. Jesse Clegg and Msaki use the project to explore themes of impermanence, self-reflection, and resilience, while engaging audiences on both emotional and sensory levels. The video showcases the depth of collaboration required to translate music into compelling visual narratives, highlighting the role of production, styling, cinematography, and performance in shaping viewer experience. As Episode 1, it sets the stage for subsequent installments, offering audiences a layered, immersive journey that extends beyond the music itself. With its release, Jesse Clegg and Msaki reaffirm their position as innovative artists who push creative boundaries while maintaining accessibility and emotional honesty in their work.
Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AuP_arCB2w
