ANGELS & AIRWAVES: SPELLBOUND
Purpose of the Project
In 2021, Angels & Airwaves released “Spellbound” from their album Lifeforms, with Tom DeLonge directing a music video that would visually match the song’s hypnotic energy. Instead of a typical performance video, DeLonge wanted a striking, immersive visual experience that would capture the feeling of being entranced by love. To achieve this, PRECISION was brought in to create Laser Banding effects that would surround the band with beams of colored light, casting dramatic shadows and creating a mystical atmosphere. The decision to use only lasers for lighting gave the video a unique, cinematic feel.
Our Role
PRECISION designed and programmed the laser effects that made up the entire lighting structure for the shoot. By surrounding the performers with Laser Banding, we created walls and beams of light that felt both organic and surreal, elevating the performance. The lasers became the primary light source, with no additional lighting needed. This allowed the beams to form intricate patterns around the band, reinforcing the theme of being trapped in a “spell” and intensifying the emotional mood of the song.
On-Set Execution
Filmed at Nightlight Studios, the video took place in a minimalist set, where laser beams surrounded the performers in real time. This setup allowed the Laser Banding to take center stage—drawing focus to the performers and transforming the small studio into a glowing, dynamic environment. Each flicker and pulse of light was choreographed to enhance the song’s emotional tone, giving the video a striking visual quality.
Reception and Public Reaction
Critics and fans alike praised the video’s innovative use of lasers. The glowing, intricate laser effects were described as “mesmerizing” and “hypnotic,” perfectly capturing the essence of the song. The decision to rely on lasers as the sole lighting source was hailed as a bold and successful choice, setting the video apart from typical performance visuals. Fans on social media celebrated the fresh approach, noting how the laser effects brought the performance to life in an unexpected and captivating way.
Outcome
“Spellbound” succeeded in delivering the immersive experience that DeLonge envisioned. The Laser Banding effects were integral to translating the song’s hypnotic mood into visuals, creating a trippy, futuristic atmosphere that captivated viewers. For Angels & Airwaves, it was another step in evolving their artistic vision, while PRECISION proved that lasers could not only enhance a performance but also become the storytelling medium itself.
SEE IT LIVE
Book a studio visit to explore ideas in person, or request a quote today. We look forward to delivering signature laser moments for your next project.