A new collaborative single from Vreid and Djerv entitled ‘Loving the Dead’ is out with a cinematic video that features Jackass icon Chris Pontius entering a dark, surreal metal universe.
Directed by Ulvar Gansum and filmed inside a church in Oslo, ‘Loving the Dead’ blurs the line between music video and psychological short film. The song is from Vreid‘s new album, The Skies Turn Black, and has been described as merging “the band’s raw, atmospheric sound with the haunting intensity of Djerv‘s Agnete Kjølsrud.”
Co-written and with vocals performed by Kjølsrud, ‘Loving the Dead’ invites interpretation rather than explanation. The lyrics move through a surreal inner world where darkness and destructive self-talk dominate, touching on the moment where resistance gives way to survival instinct. Even so, there is a quiet counterweight running through the song. Love is still present, just harder to see.
Inspired in part by Vreid and Djerv‘s shared fascination with David Lynch’s universe, the song is designed to leave space for the listener to create their own meaning.
The music video follows Pontius’ character as he drifts from the chaos of a bar into a ritual-like world, drawn forward by Kjølsrud’s almost siren-like presence. Surrounded by masked figures, he is slowly transformed, eventually embracing the darkness and becoming part of it himself.
“We wanted to create something cinematic and unexpected,” said Vreid‘s Jarle Kvåle. “Not just a performance video, but a visual journey.”
Pontius’ presence adds an unusual but natural crossover. Known globally for chaotic humour, he brings vulnerability and discomfort to the role, creating a striking contrast to both his public persona and the ritualistic setting. “It didn’t feel strange at all,” Pontius said about his performance. “It felt natural.”
