Detroit musician Sergio Gaetani has made waves at the Berlin Film Festival, earning a spot on the shortlist for Best Music Video, Color Grading, alongside renowned artists like Taylor Swift, The Pet Shop Boys, and Mitski for his song “The Trail.” Directed by Kiran Koshy, this stunning music video is a pulp sci-fi western that embodies the essence of psych-country and indie rock.
“The Trail” unfolds a gripping tale of murder and revenge, enriched by its unique blend of psychedelic outlaw country and Latin Narco influences. The track is set to be featured on Gaetani’s upcoming album, “The West That Never Was.” Koshy draws inspiration from the Coen Brothers’ film, “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs,” creating a visual homage that captures the essence of a surreal narrative.
The music video transports viewers to Monument Valley in an alternate, trippy universe, where an alien protagonist navigates the vast landscapes. This imaginative concept emerged from Koshy’s vision upon hearing the track, evoking the film’s opening scene. By juxtaposing a traditional musical genre with a surreal visual palette, Koshy crafts a fantastical story that captivates and engages the audience.
Filmed in just one day with a minimal crew—consisting of Koshy and two directors of photography—Sergio himself stars as the protagonist, donning a custom creature mask designed by Erick Rodriguez of Imaginerick Studios. The editing was handled by Peter Tarter, with the video’s vibrant colors expertly graded by Charles Gerstner.
Accompanying the release of “The Trail,” the album “The West That Never Was” was tracked and mixed at Rustbelt Studios in Royal Oak and mastered at Third Man Mastering in Detroit. It features a lineup of talented Detroit-based musicians, including several Detroit Music Award winners and nominees, such as James Simonson, Takashi Iio, John Holk, and more.
Sergio Gaetani’s “The Trail” stands out as a remarkable entry in the music video landscape, combining evocative storytelling with striking visuals, making it a must-watch and a promising precursor to his upcoming album.
