Video Review: Denmarc Creary - Late Night

Based in Leeds, singer-songwriter Denmarc Creary is a tour-de force in hypnotic RNB-style melodies. Born in Jamaica, but now residing in the UK, Creary expertly blends his 2000s rap influences with an idiosyncratic take on new age hip-hop that is moulding his style, with an impressive catalogue of releases dating back to 2014.

Initially released in 2019, ‘Late Night’ is an ambience of slowed down beats, matched with the rhythmic tones of a song amassed in a sense of longing. The song opens with the chorus: a dulcet and mellow rhythmic experience that is tantalising in its tempo. Creary’s words navigate an embodiment of dreaming for someone, which is complimented by its sultry sound. The vocals are buttery smooth, flavoured with illustrations of flirtation. Throughout the song there is a playful sensuality that only adds to its trance-inducing atmosphere that is both relaxing and exciting.

Interestingly, the music video for ‘Late Night’, which premiered recently, opens with a title card demonstrating the definition of trust, ‘the firm belief in the integrity, ability, or character of a person or thing; confidence or reliance’. Recently released to his Youtube, the imagery for ‘Late Night’ visualises the lyrics as a conversation, in which Creary speaks them through the phone. Yet, parodying the opening title-card, both partners are actually both seen to be involved outside of their relationship.

Perhaps this visualises the lyric, ‘you need someone you can trust, I need someone I can love’ implying an absence of trust from his side. The video is filmed in black and white whilst the lyrics of the song are contrasted with the short-story music video, maybe suggesting that relationships are never as black and white as they seem.

‘Late Night’ is a lesson in combining seductive melodies and ethereal vocals. It marries its influences with a modern and relevant approach which provides the foundation for Creary’s music.

Words: Lizzie Shaw