The hit band The Killers were struck with Covid’s lethargic yet unsatisfying quarantine vibe just like anyone else. During the beginning of the pandemic, they worked on their new album “Pressure Machine.” Unlike their usual repertoire of music, this album is more subdued, calm, and reflective. “This silence of quarantine brought songs that weren’t your typical Killers songs,” lead singer Brandon Flowers said on Good Morning America.
Their song “Sleepwalker” (and others) highlights the small Utah town where Flowers grew up. Their music video has been featured on ABC News and in Times Square; and it was directed by none other than BYU professor Robert Machoian Graham.
“I don't normally make music videos,” says Machoian Graham, “but Brandon Flowers contacted me after reading about a feature film I made and asked if I wanted to collaborate on a few projects. I said yes, and off we went.”
Making a music video is more than just filming; it is a unique combination of visuals and sound meant to enhance and build upon the musician’s original content. “I think there are a lot of ways visuals and music can be used to elevate each other, and that's what I find I am most interested in,” says Machoian Graham. “In the case of these videos, which were amazing to make, it was focused on the fans getting to see an amazing band perform.”
For Machoian Graham, the desire to film has consistently been present for him. “It's hard to pinpoint it, but I always had an interest in some form, just not access to the tools. But when my daughter was born we bought a camera to document her growing up. I made a documentary on her when she was three. It was ten minutes long, and I spent one late-night editing it. After it was finished, I realized how much I loved it and could see myself doing this long-term.”
With a background ranging from short to feature films, Machoian Graham’s expertise and professional skill bring the music alive. Anyone watching feels they are in the room with the band, listening to the melody and thought-provoking lyrics with the sun shining through the windows.
Robert is an Associate Professor of photography in the Photo- and Lens- Based Design program. His works have been honored by many prestigious film festivals, including Sundance, Atlanta Film Festival, CPH:DOX, Aspen Film Festival, Tribeca Film Festival, South by Southwest, and many others. His most recent short, The Killing of Two Lovers, was accepted into the Sundance film festival.
