Here's what's up with RAINSFORD: Her birth name is Rainey Qualley and she splits her time between acting and singing. Thus far she's released two songs—"S.I.D. (Sunshine in December)" and "Too Close"—totally independently. Both are beautifully lithe cuts of R&B that sound modern with a little kick to the 80s as it turned to the 90s. So, think Jesse Ware and Sade with a weeny bit of Noonie Bao and Banoffee, if the latter two artists were more pop chart-minded. RAINSFORD's voice is nimble in its runs, but the 26-year-old is also capable of dropping her tones down low and sultry and simple. Additionally she looks like a young Liv Tyler, if teen Tyler starred in Glossier ads as opposed to Aerosmith videos, a.k.a. enviably fresh-faced and free.Premiering below is the video for "Too Close," a minimalist, surrealist short. She's in a sticky situation emotionally, and visually we find the singer stroking boxes (no that's not slang, smutty), and dancing with, and getting strangled by, a furry beast. The video's a kindred spirit to Sälen's "Diseasey" and [Sui Zhen's "Infinity Street."
](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jq5Z9fu4tR0)"I am delighted to share this music video because I really love it," explains RAINSFORD. "'Too Close' is a deeply personal song, and one of my favourites I've written so far. When I wrote it I was in a position where I was very unhappy and felt out of control of my own life. So for the video I thought it would be compelling to anthropomorphise my fears/self-doubt/sorrow. However, I wanted to create a world for the song that was colourful, and strange, and fun to step into. Even with all those elements I wanted it to be authentic to myself. So I wore all my own clothes, did my own hair and makeup, and worked closely with Remi (the amazing director) to be sure every detail felt right. I couldn't be more pleased with the result!"Watch below and keep your ears tuned for more.
Advertisement