Seeing as fifteen seconds in I was crying as earnestly and unabashedly as when I heard Danny Don’t You Know and The Last Unicorn, I’d call that a *BIG YES* from me! I congratulate you, Danny, Jim and everyone involved with the magnificent splendor that is Shadow Academy. 💚😭😭💚
I love how beautiful this song is, but ever since my mom died, it just breaks my heart. She loved Dan's voice so much. Love you mom, hope you're listening.
This is basically what its like having depression man. Moments of happiness followed by feelings of hopelessness, put beautifully into a song that helps people like me know im not alone
The first time I ever saw this video and song I cried, between the visuals and the lyrics I felt more seen than I ever had before. The constant cycle of numbed darkness followed by bright energetic periods, only for the darkness to hit you again like a brick wall - it's so exhausting. Listening to music like this helps though, it reminds me the dark and light are both a part of me, it makes it less frightening to face them and try to find the balance.
The ending is fantastic too. Others can help you fight the darkness but at the end of the day the one who has to actually dispel it is you. Become at peace. A being of dark surrounding yourself with light and color.
No man is an island, just get out there and explore because someone might need the reassurance you can provide just by being yourself. And likewise it's important for you to have reassurance to know you are important in this world
Fucking incredible. I’ve longed for the more serious side of Dan’s music since Skyhill, but I couldn’t have imagined something this special. Outstanding work, guys.
Love that it ends with the figure making his own color, learning to be happy in spite of what he's lost and growing from the internal darkness that didn't go away. He wasn't given what he wanted, he became what he needed to be to make it for himself. Excellent job, Shooch and Shadow Academy both.
You know I wasn't planning on becoming emotionally invested in the struggles of a music video fairy man, but here we are with Dan's voice coming in and changing my plans and all.
This song just absolutely wrecked me. I'm in absolute sobbing tears while writing this. Absolutely the pure power of music to legitimately make me remember the worst day of my life but not to be sad but greatful that I had the time I did and that I can look back on it with appreciation. Dan's lyrics "I always star right when it ends" hit the most powerful as I didn't realize I was truly happy until right before I got the call my husband was never coming home. He had died in a work accident. My own personal start at the end. Thank you Dan and Shadow Academy for giving us this song. This is now one of my favorites as found my own personal connection to this song.
Yeah, "I never seem to start right til it's over I’m falling down like starlight on your shoulders What did I mean to say? Through myth and memory What was it I that fought for Weathering this long war Once and never more" Absolutely crushing.
I FUCKING LOVE THIS BAND MAN. dan has helped me through one of the hardest times of my life... I was homeless for the last 2 years and sleeping in my car in the heat and cold affected my health in ways that made it hard to keep going but i would charge my phone in my car and put on an episode of game grumps and the laughs would get me through the day.. Now that he has this outlet to share his voice it only gives me more hope for the future. Dan you change the world buddy! Love you and hope you are proud of everything you do. You're my hero! Today i have a great place to live and getting my health back thanks to the game grumps getting me through and making me during each day. I'll keep watching every day!
As someone whos also been homeless and lived in there car facing the elements and having it affect you I understand this on a whole other level, Glad your somewhere safe and can tell us your story
The ending of this music video always gets me. My interpretation is that the main character is grieving, always trying to get back to the way things used to be, but inevitably fails and hits rock bottom. But when he gets there, he finds out he can create his own world of life and love, even while carrying the darkness of his lowest moments with him.
I had a similar reaction. I took it as the giddy happy times weren't actually all him, but delusions of grandeur. Of course, the overwhelming light inevitably ends, he wants it back, but always loses because he isn't supposed to find that happiness from others. He is supposed to find his own, his own way, by his own energy. And right at the end, with no others' energy to use, he finds his own.
This is unbelievably incredible. Dan's angelic voice makes every note hit that much harder. The art style and tone of the video are amazing! I can't wait to see what you folks create next.
I lost my dad to cancer in April and he was a big music guy. Every time I hear this song I think of how he would have really liked it and I wish I had been able to share it with him. Thanks for the beautiful song 💕
Prog Magazine said it had a Barclay James Harvest vibe as well, which I can hear also. Also check out that band’s 70’s work. It’s fantastic if you like The Moody Blues or Pink Floyd.
It took me a couple watches to really grasp the deeper meaning of the song (I was too caught up in Simon’s incredible art). As someone who’s struggled with depression most of their life, this hits me right in my soul, especially the ending. It’s been a brutal journey but I’ve just recently found solid ground to stand on. Keep putting out this incredible stuff, Danny. You’re literally my Jewish hero and a massive inspiration.
That was really amazing. Such a beautiful display of emotions, both of despair and hope. I'm really glad I got to watch this as a premiere because of all the positive energy and nice people in the chat and to see Dan, Jim and Shoocharu there excited and proud of their work felt great to witness. I think this MV specifically will stick with me for a long time. Edit: Second time was just as good, still had that goosebump chill, y'know?
This definitely hit me hard. In high school, I had feelings for my best friend, and just as I thought we would start dating, he was set up with some other girl. I was devastated because I assumed he just didn’t care about me and we stopped talking for a long time. It’s funny, though, because I just got a text from him yesterday, nearly a week after listening to this song, and we stayed up all night playing games and catching up. I sent him this song and he told me he had also liked me at the time. Really does come full circle, I guess we’ll see what happens
As a person battling depression and other depressive mental illnesses, this song filled me with something I've had very little of lately. Hope. Dan, Jim, Simon? Thank you. I'll make sure to start my days off with this music video as an alarm of sorts from now on.
How is it that every one of Dan's more serious animated music videos makes me cry? Starlight Brigade, Magnum Bullets, Scarborough Faire, The Last Unicorn, and now this. This man has my heart on a string and he plays it expertly.
This is definitely what clinical depression feels like. Wandering, wishing you had what you did as a child, struggling to find and live in those bright spots, to be that bright and happy person again. Then finding out you can't go back, but you can make the best of what you have and get help to be the best you can with who you are. And Danny's angelic voice perfectly encapsulating the echo-y far away feeling of that hopeful spark that keeps you going, fighting one more day, one more hour, for the happiness you crave so much. Thank you for making this.
This truly feels like the natural progression of Danny's music journey. It feels like this band is where its all been leading too. So we'll done Danny, excited to hear more from you guys.
Oh my god, the video hit me deep in my core because that's how my life has felt for a long time, endless darkness with moments of pure light...I don't usually cry from things like this but it almost brought it out of me, thank you Dan, Jim, and Simon for this masterpiece
I adore this song so much. To me, it speaks of grief. Specifically, the crushing pain and despair of losing a loved one or significant other. Even remembering the good times, while it can bring moments of happiness, leaves you in an even deeper pit than you were before. But no matter how all encompasing that despair is, you can be happy again. It'll never be the same without them, but life can be good again.
I resonate so much with this video. I’m married with 2 children and 2 nights ago my husband was arrested for 2nd degree assault against me. The illustration in shows exactly what’s going on inside of me (right down to the imagery of them as kids- we’ve known and loved each other since we were 10 years old). It feels like my whole world is gone and over with and just totally messed up. I feel so low. He was my HUSBAND. I was his WIFE. How could he do this?? But all these memories of the good times keep popping up and they’re just so beautiful because when things were good, it was like a fairy tale. We were so connected, it felt like no one in the world was as meant for each other as we were. And then for a second I feel happy again.. then I’m hit with the darkness all over again. I’m not sure how to proceed. I don’t even know who I am without him. He totally took away my light and I don’t know how to find it again. But the ending is amazing and I’m so damn ready to paint my world with color again.
I'm crying. This video is my major depressive disorder. Today has been really hard, then I found this. I'm still in the gray lands, but this was a good reminder that the glowing world does exist and I will find it someday.
"I never seem to start right 'till it's over" What a beautiful line. Skyhill helped me a lot when I was in an abusive relationship for a year, I found them right as things were beginning to fall apart and honestly it was the most freeing thing. They've stayed with me since then and currently the Skyhill album is the Only One (heheh, reference) I own a physical copy of. I can actually see it from where I sit right now typing this comment. A big thank you to Danny for helping me through tough times, and another big thank you to Jim for making this new project possible. You guys are great.
The four stages; You watch, captivated by the video. You slowly sway to soft rhythms of the Music. You listen the earthshaking sound of lead's voice sends those positive waves through Your body. You finally hear and understand the lyrics, instantly connecting to the artist's muse and others who feel the same the world over.
Everything about this is amazing! Danny, your voice is beautiful. Jim, the music is awesome. And Shoocharu, the animation was great. I could see (and hear) all the work you all put into this. Rock on! 🤘❤️ Edit (6 days after song release): The first time listening to this song, I didn't cry because I was so fascinated by the animation and beautiful song. But after listening to it more and more, and understanding the meaning behind the lyrics, I find myself getting much more emotional. I saw what Danny's meaning of the song is, but he said it means whatever we want it to. I didn't exactly relate to his meaning of the song, I've been in a happy relationship for almost a decade, and have a family, so that brings me lots of happiness. But to me it has a special meaning still. I see it as chasing happiness after tough times in life. Life can sometimes feel all dark, but it's never going to be all light either. The ending of the video to me shows that you will most likely have to find a balance of the two, and that's okay. You'll get over the tough things life throws at you, and you'll find what makes you happy. In the end, some things may not have been worth worrying about as much as you did. Just have to say, this is the first band I was ever a fan of before even hearing the full songs. Love you guys! Keep rockin' on!
I have listened to this song and white whale about 3 Times per day since they came out. I love everything about them. The lyrics, music, vocals(Dan rocks), and the videos. I can’t explain how much this has changed my life. Shadow Academy is now my favorite band!!
With lyrics like "What was it that I fought for Weathering this long war", this song hit me in a special way. I've struggled with finding purpose in my life for a while now and after many years, I think I finally know what I'm fighting for. Thank you for touching me like this Shadow Academy, I'm looking forward to everything you make going forward!
Caught the premiere! My God, that was absolutely beautiful! I was trembling with excitement the whole time! These two years of hard work are truly showing here.
CHILLS!!! That ending got me right in the heart. Feeling the extreme ups and downs of depression is so tough, reaching what feels like happiness and stability just for things to fall through once again. When in the end YOU have to responsible for helping yourself to reach the okay point. Where you find the balance. Where you live a life that may not my "Perfect" And you except that. Where you have light and dark
The imagery stirs me emotionally. Even though it confuses me as well, it is so strong. Dan's voice has always been beautiful but it sounds pained in this. I hope that if this is an expression of pain or loss that whoever wa shurt finds healing.
A dear friend of mine suddenly passed away very recently. Months before his passing, he introduced me to your band, and I instantly fell in love with your music. I feel it only right to dedicate this beautiful song to the memory of his life and kindness.
Currently living this. I lost someone very dear to me and I fought so hard for it. She was incredible and what we had was magical. I miss her so fucking much. The timing just wasn't right..
Dan singing an original song is magical to me. I discovered this man years ago through NSP, and I never could've imagined that he'd become my absolute favourite music artist of all time. This song is absolutely amazing. Thank you.
I can't stop listening to this song. It's such a beautiful piece of music and I'm glad it exists. When I first heard this song I just thought it was another great song Dan had released but as I listen to it more I get more and more teary eyed. As a person with depression these last few years have been extremely rough. Especially while experiencing a divorce. More and more I would feel like the character falling into that black void with no sense of hope on the horizon. Thankfully I can say now I'm better and also like the character in the end, even though I carry my depression with me I find myself in this colorful world from the help of the people around me from my friends to my new partner. I will always have that black void inside of me but with these people's help I can still live in such a beautiful world.
To me, this video demonstrates what Bipolar Disorder feels like. The darkness and the light suddenly washing over you without any warning. Whether the feeling is good or bad, it's all-consuming, and you don't know when it will end. Great song and great video! Keep up the good work! 💕
This is literally the perfect song story and really pulls on the soul! Dan, I have always loved you on Grumps, but holy #$%k balls man! What do I say to the person who wrote and sang the best thing I have ever heard! Thanks heaps mate from Andy from Australia.
Ngl, this whole experience has me in tears, this is absolutely breathtaking. Everyone did such an amazing job, I'm absolutely blown away! I can't wait to see what all is in store for this band
I really like this, more than white whale for sure. They're very different songs but I love how Dan sounds in this one with the more majestic instrumental, I think this is the type of song he really shines in.
This is the first time since I was very young that a music video has given me consistent goosebumps from start to finish. Incredible work Shoocharu and Shadow Academy. 👍
Wow...i...wow, i can't like, express the emotion this made me feel, i listened to the song without the video, and while it's a beautiful song, the video really makes it special, it made me cry both tears of sadness and happiness, i felt so sad for the shadow elf, but the visual were so breathtaking, and danny's voice is just...wow, and the instrumentals are so moving, this really is something special
I literally have a playlist called “Danny singing other people’s songs” which consists of Under the Covers vol 1 2 and 3, Dan Avidan and Super Guitar Bros, Danny singing on TWRP songs, and some more. I love it
Shadow Academy is going to be a legendary band. These songs are so amazing, and the animations have been top notch. This one definitely made me tear up, so much heart put into all of it. I legitimately can't wait for more!
The artistic talent and poetry in this all wraps together so well and makes a wonderful experience that spoke to me in a really deep way. And the fact that you guys did it all in 4 minutes speaks LOUD volume for you of your talents. It's so rad to see so many people achieving their dreams!
Snow on the stones In the darkening door Almost Silent as ghosts Once and never more A glittering light On the unlived life We'd share Carried away On the moonlit air Lost in the streetlights Glowing more faintly every night Where nowhere meets sometimes I never seem to start right Til it's over I'm falling down like starlight On your shoulders What did I mean to say? Through myth and memory What was it that I fought for Weathering this long war Once and never more The moment is gone In the gray blue dawn Almost Tides on a coast Called and never drawn With glimmering eyes Under open skies Allies Wandering souls Only fantasize With all of the roadways Closed in a castle we didn't climb All of the answers we won't find I never seem to start right Til it's over I'm falling down like starlight On your shoulders What did I need to say? Through endless memory What was it that I hoped for Weathering this long storm Once and never more Once and never more Once and never more
Incredible magic here. This is one of those lightning-in-a-bottle captures that hits at 2 AM when you least expect it, while you're at home helping your mother die peacefully from cancer, realizing that *maybe* there is light in all that darkness. There is! Just as he finds at the end... And he finds the light he makes is different, all his own, and colorful like no other. Such a great message here.
Damn… I’ve been going through it lately, and this shot me straight in the feels. Absolutely incredible work from everyone involved: Dan’s vocals, Jim’s instrumentation, Simon’s animation. You guys are definitely the outstretched hand from this world of color for many who find themselves lost in darkness.
Absolutely beautiful work you guys, this literally brought me to tears... Every sound going on here strums right at the heart, and to accompany it with such a gorgeous meaningful animation was the perfect way to do it! That shot at 0:40 is an immediate background for my computer. Please keep going strong we need these gifts haha!
This song is a lot - but a nice 'a lot'. This song describes that feeling of being lost and the video shows it just as well. I was a bit sceptical of Shadow Academy but this song really set my fears aside. This is brilliant. This is wonderful. I can't wait for more.
Damn, that was amazing. Both the song and animation where absolutely beautiful. I’m glad you all are having fun with this new project cause y’all are making some KILLER art pieces!
This one hit me in a way I wasn't expecting. I'm currently going through the remnants of the Dark Night of the soul. I didn't ask for this, but it seems no matter what I do, no matter how hard I try, nothing much moves forward. I work to keep myself busy, but that doesn't keep the lingering thoughts of hopelessness or loneliness at bay. I know they won't linger forever but I do wonder how much longer I'll be on my own. I've been following the right path and I'm doing what I can to help others in small ways, but when it comes to really living up to my potential, I feel so inadequate. I can't look back, I've come too far. I don't think I'm meant to traverse this path solo much longer. Perhaps I just need to be a bit more patient, because like my dear dad said, 'Even behind the clouds, the sun is always shining'.
its an awesome work of art, I got the feeling I was watching someone who had forgot how to live without their love, and that they came to realize that you can create love, love for yourself and for anyone else.
Introduced this to my English classroom so we could discuss the meaning/message behind the animation. We had some interesting theories- although one common theme was that everyone enjoyed the music!
Been going through a lot lately and Danny's music has been one of the few guiding lights keeping me going forward. I am still trying to figure out who I am, where I'm going, and who I want to *be*...but I know there's a great star waiting to shine brightly within me. I know I'm rad af on the inside, just working on letting it out. #LoveAndPeace #AndShadowAcademy \m/
Dude shoo nailed the facial expressions in this one, sadness, wonder, determination, hope, concern. All the emotions expressed just through the facial expressions is just chefs kiss.
![TWRP - Starlight Brigade (feat. Dan Avidan) [Official video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/J9Q3i5w6-Ug/mqdefault.jpg)
I hope you all like this one! I can't believe it's finally out!
This is without a doubt my favourite thing I have ever worked on!!
Wow your favorite thing is saying a lot! I'm pumped to see it.
This was gorgeous artwork. Amazing to see 😊
It is amazing! I adore the colors and everything about it
Seeing as fifteen seconds in I was crying as earnestly and unabashedly as when I heard Danny Don’t You Know and The Last Unicorn, I’d call that a *BIG YES* from me!
I congratulate you, Danny, Jim and everyone involved with the magnificent splendor that is Shadow Academy.
💚😭😭💚
Simon this is so fucking beautiful, awesome job dude
Me and my soon to be wife have decided this will be a song we play at our wedding... thank you, Dan. Thank you.
I wish you all the Best.
wow, that's incredible to hear! Thank you for sharing. :)
I love how beautiful this song is, but ever since my mom died, it just breaks my heart. She loved Dan's voice so much. Love you mom, hope you're listening.
This is basically what its like having depression man. Moments of happiness followed by feelings of hopelessness, put beautifully into a song that helps people like me know im not alone
The first time I ever saw this video and song I cried, between the visuals and the lyrics I felt more seen than I ever had before. The constant cycle of numbed darkness followed by bright energetic periods, only for the darkness to hit you again like a brick wall - it's so exhausting. Listening to music like this helps though, it reminds me the dark and light are both a part of me, it makes it less frightening to face them and try to find the balance.
The ending is fantastic too. Others can help you fight the darkness but at the end of the day the one who has to actually dispel it is you. Become at peace. A being of dark surrounding yourself with light and color.
I'm with you dude. Know that no matter where any of us live, we will always have each other's back.
No man is an island, just get out there and explore because someone might need the reassurance you can provide just by being yourself. And likewise it's important for you to have reassurance to know you are important in this world
Fucking incredible. I’ve longed for the more serious side of Dan’s music since Skyhill, but I couldn’t have imagined something this special. Outstanding work, guys.
Love that it ends with the figure making his own color, learning to be happy in spite of what he's lost and growing from the internal darkness that didn't go away. He wasn't given what he wanted, he became what he needed to be to make it for himself. Excellent job, Shooch and Shadow Academy both.
“The pain I feel now is the happiness I had before. That's the deal.”
― C.S. Lewis
fair but still rip and was that his friend/lover?
@@rjc523judging by the clips of them together during the instrumental I imagine they were partners. One of the clips shows them with kids
"You can't go home again", and Dan said "and you can make a new home"
"In the darkest times, hope is something you give yourself. That is the meaning of inner strength." -Uncle Iroh
You know I wasn't planning on becoming emotionally invested in the struggles of a music video fairy man, but here we are with Dan's voice coming in and changing my plans and all.
@@RenSako so your a straight up hater. Got it
That AND making me choke up even though I've heard this song a bunch of times
as it should be lol.
Plan of mice and men
This song just absolutely wrecked me. I'm in absolute sobbing tears while writing this. Absolutely the pure power of music to legitimately make me remember the worst day of my life but not to be sad but greatful that I had the time I did and that I can look back on it with appreciation.
Dan's lyrics "I always star right when it ends" hit the most powerful as I didn't realize I was truly happy until right before I got the call my husband was never coming home. He had died in a work accident. My own personal start at the end. Thank you Dan and Shadow Academy for giving us this song.
This is now one of my favorites as found my own personal connection to this song.
😢
Yeah,
"I never seem to start right til it's over
I’m falling down like starlight on your shoulders
What did I mean to say?
Through myth and memory
What was it I that fought for
Weathering this long war
Once and never more"
Absolutely crushing.
:( I'm so sorry for your loss.
Smells like emo tweens in heeeere
@@BolFelix what tweens do u know that have dead husbands
I FUCKING LOVE THIS BAND MAN. dan has helped me through one of the hardest times of my life... I was homeless for the last 2 years and sleeping in my car in the heat and cold affected my health in ways that made it hard to keep going but i would charge my phone in my car and put on an episode of game grumps and the laughs would get me through the day.. Now that he has this outlet to share his voice it only gives me more hope for the future. Dan you change the world buddy! Love you and hope you are proud of everything you do. You're my hero! Today i have a great place to live and getting my health back thanks to the game grumps getting me through and making me during each day. I'll keep watching every day!
stay strong 💪
Proud of you brother. I’m happy to see you’re doing well and getting better. I hope your life becomes everything you want it to be.
💜
As someone whos also been homeless and lived in there car facing the elements and having it affect you I understand this on a whole other level, Glad your somewhere safe and can tell us your story
I've been there too. Game Grumps can really make life feel a lot brighter!
2:58 this part reminds me of a quote from a poem about depression that read "I dare you, extraordinary human to sprint into joy screaming"
Shadow Academy are definitely 2 for 2 with these singles, looking forward to the album release!
The ending of this music video always gets me. My interpretation is that the main character is grieving, always trying to get back to the way things used to be, but inevitably fails and hits rock bottom. But when he gets there, he finds out he can create his own world of life and love, even while carrying the darkness of his lowest moments with him.
I had a similar reaction. I took it as the giddy happy times weren't actually all him, but delusions of grandeur. Of course, the overwhelming light inevitably ends, he wants it back, but always loses because he isn't supposed to find that happiness from others. He is supposed to find his own, his own way, by his own energy. And right at the end, with no others' energy to use, he finds his own.
This is unbelievably incredible. Dan's angelic voice makes every note hit that much harder. The art style and tone of the video are amazing! I can't wait to see what you folks create next.
@@RenSako so no videos of your own, no talent, and a constant troll on here. Got it. Sad
I lost my dad to cancer in April and he was a big music guy. Every time I hear this song I think of how he would have really liked it and I wish I had been able to share it with him. Thanks for the beautiful song 💕
My partner shared this song with me tonight. My dad passed away earlier this evening. Also cancer. I feel my dad would have enjoyed this song, too.
This give me Peter Gabriel “In Your Eyes” vibes and I’m absolutely here for it. Another amazing song that I’ll be obsessed with. Well done guys. ❤️
i was about to comment the same thing!
Yeah, maybe it was inspired by that? I know dan has done a cover of In Your Eyes previously.
Yes that's what vibe I'm getting!! I couldn't explain it!
Prog Magazine said it had a Barclay James Harvest vibe as well, which I can hear also. Also check out that band’s 70’s work. It’s fantastic if you like The Moody Blues or Pink Floyd.
It’s a mix of this and ‘December Song’ by George Michael, in my mind.
It took me a couple watches to really grasp the deeper meaning of the song (I was too caught up in Simon’s incredible art). As someone who’s struggled with depression most of their life, this hits me right in my soul, especially the ending. It’s been a brutal journey but I’ve just recently found solid ground to stand on. Keep putting out this incredible stuff, Danny. You’re literally my Jewish hero and a massive inspiration.
I love how they we're able to make their own light by the end, rather than reaching for someone else's. It's bittersweet, but a new start regardless.
That was really amazing. Such a beautiful display of emotions, both of despair and hope. I'm really glad I got to watch this as a premiere because of all the positive energy and nice people in the chat and to see Dan, Jim and Shoocharu there excited and proud of their work felt great to witness.
I think this MV specifically will stick with me for a long time.
Edit: Second time was just as good, still had that goosebump chill, y'know?
Danny, Jim, Simon, thank you for all that you do and for bringing this loveliness to our eyes and ears!
Actually crying rn. This is beautiful. This band is already one of my all time favorites.
No matter how much you want it. No matter how hard you try. You just won't be able to hit the replay.
This definitely hit me hard. In high school, I had feelings for my best friend, and just as I thought we would start dating, he was set up with some other girl. I was devastated because I assumed he just didn’t care about me and we stopped talking for a long time. It’s funny, though, because I just got a text from him yesterday, nearly a week after listening to this song, and we stayed up all night playing games and catching up. I sent him this song and he told me he had also liked me at the time. Really does come full circle, I guess we’ll see what happens
Bruh i'm literally close to tears. If this little elf dude didn't make it back to the color world i would have been sobbing
Danny’s vocals take me to a fantasyland!
As a person battling depression and other depressive mental illnesses, this song filled me with something I've had very little of lately.
Hope.
Dan, Jim, Simon? Thank you. I'll make sure to start my days off with this music video as an alarm of sorts from now on.
Safe Camp fam
How is it that every one of Dan's more serious animated music videos makes me cry? Starlight Brigade, Magnum Bullets, Scarborough Faire, The Last Unicorn, and now this. This man has my heart on a string and he plays it expertly.
This is definitely what clinical depression feels like. Wandering, wishing you had what you did as a child, struggling to find and live in those bright spots, to be that bright and happy person again. Then finding out you can't go back, but you can make the best of what you have and get help to be the best you can with who you are.
And Danny's angelic voice perfectly encapsulating the echo-y far away feeling of that hopeful spark that keeps you going, fighting one more day, one more hour, for the happiness you crave so much.
Thank you for making this.
This truly feels like the natural progression of Danny's music journey. It feels like this band is where its all been leading too. So we'll done Danny, excited to hear more from you guys.
I would even say it is the perfect music, the music he needed to make at this stage in his life.
This song is in my opinion a pretty good representation of depression and fighting towards escaping it
Oh my god, the video hit me deep in my core because that's how my life has felt for a long time, endless darkness with moments of pure light...I don't usually cry from things like this but it almost brought it out of me, thank you Dan, Jim, and Simon for this masterpiece
I think this is my favorite music video of all time.
I adore this song so much. To me, it speaks of grief. Specifically, the crushing pain and despair of losing a loved one or significant other. Even remembering the good times, while it can bring moments of happiness, leaves you in an even deeper pit than you were before. But no matter how all encompasing that despair is, you can be happy again. It'll never be the same without them, but life can be good again.
I resonate so much with this video. I’m married with 2 children and 2 nights ago my husband was arrested for 2nd degree assault against me. The illustration in shows exactly what’s going on inside of me (right down to the imagery of them as kids- we’ve known and loved each other since we were 10 years old). It feels like my whole world is gone and over with and just totally messed up. I feel so low. He was my HUSBAND. I was his WIFE. How could he do this?? But all these memories of the good times keep popping up and they’re just so beautiful because when things were good, it was like a fairy tale. We were so connected, it felt like no one in the world was as meant for each other as we were. And then for a second I feel happy again.. then I’m hit with the darkness all over again. I’m not sure how to proceed. I don’t even know who I am without him. He totally took away my light and I don’t know how to find it again. But the ending is amazing and I’m so damn ready to paint my world with color again.
It's been 4 hours. I've listened to it 8 times, and I have it memorized. That's how powerful this song is.
I'm crying. This video is my major depressive disorder. Today has been really hard, then I found this. I'm still in the gray lands, but this was a good reminder that the glowing world does exist and I will find it someday.
"I never seem to start right 'till it's over"
What a beautiful line. Skyhill helped me a lot when I was in an abusive relationship for a year, I found them right as things were beginning to fall apart and honestly it was the most freeing thing. They've stayed with me since then and currently the Skyhill album is the Only One (heheh, reference) I own a physical copy of. I can actually see it from where I sit right now typing this comment.
A big thank you to Danny for helping me through tough times, and another big thank you to Jim for making this new project possible. You guys are great.
The four stages;
You watch, captivated by the video.
You slowly sway to soft rhythms of the Music.
You listen the earthshaking sound of lead's voice sends those positive waves through Your body.
You finally hear and understand the lyrics, instantly connecting to the artist's muse and others who feel the same the world over.
Everything about this is amazing!
Danny, your voice is beautiful.
Jim, the music is awesome.
And Shoocharu, the animation was great.
I could see (and hear) all the work you all put into this. Rock on! 🤘❤️
Edit (6 days after song release): The first time listening to this song, I didn't cry because I was so fascinated by the animation and beautiful song. But after listening to it more and more, and understanding the meaning behind the lyrics, I find myself getting much more emotional.
I saw what Danny's meaning of the song is, but he said it means whatever we want it to. I didn't exactly relate to his meaning of the song, I've been in a happy relationship for almost a decade, and have a family, so that brings me lots of happiness. But to me it has a special meaning still. I see it as chasing happiness after tough times in life. Life can sometimes feel all dark, but it's never going to be all light either. The ending of the video to me shows that you will most likely have to find a balance of the two, and that's okay. You'll get over the tough things life throws at you, and you'll find what makes you happy. In the end, some things may not have been worth worrying about as much as you did.
Just have to say, this is the first band I was ever a fan of before even hearing the full songs. Love you guys! Keep rockin' on!
it kills me everytime at 3:56 that damn breaking as you begin to cry.
I have listened to this song and white whale about 3 Times per day since they came out. I love everything about them. The lyrics, music, vocals(Dan rocks), and the videos. I can’t explain how much this has changed my life. Shadow Academy is now my favorite band!!
"What did I need to say?" got me messed up right now.
Never stop. Please.
With lyrics like "What was it that I fought for Weathering this long war", this song hit me in a special way. I've struggled with finding purpose in my life for a while now and after many years, I think I finally know what I'm fighting for. Thank you for touching me like this Shadow Academy, I'm looking forward to everything you make going forward!
I have CHILLS *and they're not going away!*
Caught the premiere! My God, that was absolutely beautiful! I was trembling with excitement the whole time! These two years of hard work are truly showing here.
The ending just made me cry my eyes out, the realization that he was always in the forest, but that he lost his light after losing her just hit me
You don’t always need a lot of instruments to make an impact. The voice can, and always will, carry the most emotion. Beautiful.
CHILLS!!! That ending got me right in the heart. Feeling the extreme ups and downs of depression is so tough, reaching what feels like happiness and stability just for things to fall through once again. When in the end YOU have to responsible for helping yourself to reach the okay point. Where you find the balance. Where you live a life that may not my "Perfect" And you except that. Where you have light and dark
The imagery stirs me emotionally. Even though it confuses me as well, it is so strong. Dan's voice has always been beautiful but it sounds pained in this. I hope that if this is an expression of pain or loss that whoever wa shurt finds healing.
A dear friend of mine suddenly passed away very recently. Months before his passing, he introduced me to your band, and I instantly fell in love with your music. I feel it only right to dedicate this beautiful song to the memory of his life and kindness.
So many chills, this is one of the best songs I’ve ever heard
Currently living this. I lost someone very dear to me and I fought so hard for it. She was incredible and what we had was magical. I miss her so fucking much. The timing just wasn't right..
I cannot *wait* for the album this and White Whale are on to drop. This is easily my most anticipated album in years.
Dan singing an original song is magical to me. I discovered this man years ago through NSP, and I never could've imagined that he'd become my absolute favourite music artist of all time. This song is absolutely amazing. Thank you.
This is just absolutely beautiful in every way! Can’t wait to see more!
It's like 20° outside but man, i really don't think it's the chill in the air giving me these shivers
I'm sort of in a bad place right now, so thanks for making this beautiful song, it helped a lot
You're loved dont forget that!
It helps me heal each time i listen.
I can't stop listening to this song. It's such a beautiful piece of music and I'm glad it exists.
When I first heard this song I just thought it was another great song Dan had released but as I listen to it more I get more and more teary eyed. As a person with depression these last few years have been extremely rough. Especially while experiencing a divorce. More and more I would feel like the character falling into that black void with no sense of hope on the horizon.
Thankfully I can say now I'm better and also like the character in the end, even though I carry my depression with me I find myself in this colorful world from the help of the people around me from my friends to my new partner. I will always have that black void inside of me but with these people's help I can still live in such a beautiful world.
Serious Love Me Like There’s No Tomorrow vibes with a modern twist and I’m loving every second of it.
To me, this video demonstrates what Bipolar Disorder feels like. The darkness and the light suddenly washing over you without any warning.
Whether the feeling is good or bad, it's all-consuming, and you don't know when it will end.
Great song and great video! Keep up the good work! 💕
Dare I say this is Dan's magnum opus, I want to see Dan perform this live.
What a calming and beautiful song, accompanied by a wonderful animation as always!
The only way I could describe this music video is: _magical._
Incredible. Lost for words. Gives a sense of nostalgia that never existed.
This is literally the perfect song story and really pulls on the soul!
Dan, I have always loved you on Grumps, but holy #$%k balls man! What do I say to the person who wrote and sang the best thing I have ever heard!
Thanks heaps mate from Andy from Australia.
"Once And Never More" is one of the coolest titles I've ever heard.
Ngl, this whole experience has me in tears, this is absolutely breathtaking. Everyone did such an amazing job, I'm absolutely blown away! I can't wait to see what all is in store for this band
I really like this, more than white whale for sure. They're very different songs but I love how Dan sounds in this one with the more majestic instrumental, I think this is the type of song he really shines in.
This is the first time since I was very young that a music video has given me consistent goosebumps from start to finish. Incredible work Shoocharu and Shadow Academy. 👍
2:00 aaaaaaaand tears
Wow...i...wow, i can't like, express the emotion this made me feel, i listened to the song without the video, and while it's a beautiful song, the video really makes it special, it made me cry both tears of sadness and happiness, i felt so sad for the shadow elf, but the visual were so breathtaking, and danny's voice is just...wow, and the instrumentals are so moving, this really is something special
Dan Avidan, singing more serious music?! And it sounds like THIS?!?!?! Yes pleeeeaaaase
I will always be listening to Dan the rest of my life, and thus, Forever Shadow Academy. I love you guys
I literally have a playlist called “Danny singing other people’s songs” which consists of Under the Covers vol 1 2 and 3, Dan Avidan and Super Guitar Bros, Danny singing on TWRP songs, and some more. I love it
Shadow Academy is going to be a legendary band. These songs are so amazing, and the animations have been top notch. This one definitely made me tear up, so much heart put into all of it. I legitimately can't wait for more!
The artistic talent and poetry in this all wraps together so well and makes a wonderful experience that spoke to me in a really deep way. And the fact that you guys did it all in 4 minutes speaks LOUD volume for you of your talents. It's so rad to see so many people achieving their dreams!
Someday Dan is going to have to take responsibility for all these cinematic universes he's singing into existence
Awesome. The song is great, and the animation takes it to a whole other level.
Snow on the stones
In the darkening door
Almost
Silent as ghosts
Once and never more
A glittering light
On the unlived life
We'd share
Carried away
On the moonlit air
Lost in the streetlights
Glowing more faintly every night
Where nowhere meets sometimes
I never seem to start right
Til it's over
I'm falling down like starlight
On your shoulders
What did I mean to say?
Through myth and memory
What was it that I fought for
Weathering this long war
Once and never more
The moment is gone
In the gray blue dawn
Almost
Tides on a coast
Called and never drawn
With glimmering eyes
Under open skies
Allies
Wandering souls
Only fantasize
With all of the roadways
Closed in a castle we didn't climb
All of the answers we won't find
I never seem to start right
Til it's over
I'm falling down like starlight
On your shoulders
What did I need to say?
Through endless memory
What was it that I hoped for
Weathering this long storm
Once and never more
Once and never more
Once and never more
This song is so good, the visuals make it even better. Good job shoocharu, Good job Shadow Academy.
Incredible magic here. This is one of those lightning-in-a-bottle captures that hits at 2 AM when you least expect it, while you're at home helping your mother die peacefully from cancer, realizing that *maybe* there is light in all that darkness. There is! Just as he finds at the end... And he finds the light he makes is different, all his own, and colorful like no other. Such a great message here.
Damn… I’ve been going through it lately, and this shot me straight in the feels. Absolutely incredible work from everyone involved: Dan’s vocals, Jim’s instrumentation, Simon’s animation. You guys are definitely the outstretched hand from this world of color for many who find themselves lost in darkness.
How many of us have listened to this 100+ times today already? So good.
I love how every comment is about Dan's voice being amazing. But it's so full of feelings are you doing okay man?
Aaaand I’m crying. This was beautiful. Thank you Dan & Simon
Absolutely beautiful work you guys, this literally brought me to tears... Every sound going on here strums right at the heart, and to accompany it with such a gorgeous meaningful animation was the perfect way to do it! That shot at 0:40 is an immediate background for my computer. Please keep going strong we need these gifts haha!
This song is a lot - but a nice 'a lot'. This song describes that feeling of being lost and the video shows it just as well. I was a bit sceptical of Shadow Academy but this song really set my fears aside. This is brilliant. This is wonderful. I can't wait for more.
Damn, that was amazing. Both the song and animation where absolutely beautiful. I’m glad you all are having fun with this new project cause y’all are making some KILLER art pieces!
I just cried for 4 minutes. I'm proud to call myself a Shadow Academic! I've already ordered my White Whale poster!
This one hit me in a way I wasn't expecting. I'm currently going through the remnants of the Dark Night of the soul. I didn't ask for this, but it seems no matter what I do, no matter how hard I try, nothing much moves forward. I work to keep myself busy, but that doesn't keep the lingering thoughts of hopelessness or loneliness at bay. I know they won't linger forever but I do wonder how much longer I'll be on my own. I've been following the right path and I'm doing what I can to help others in small ways, but when it comes to really living up to my potential, I feel so inadequate. I can't look back, I've come too far. I don't think I'm meant to traverse this path solo much longer. Perhaps I just need to be a bit more patient, because like my dear dad said, 'Even behind the clouds, the sun is always shining'.
its an awesome work of art, I got the feeling I was watching someone who had forgot how to live without their love, and that they came to realize that you can create love, love for yourself and for anyone else.
Introduced this to my English classroom so we could discuss the meaning/message behind the animation. We had some interesting theories- although one common theme was that everyone enjoyed the music!
Jesus dude this made me cry. Beautiful song and beautiful animation.
Been going through a lot lately and Danny's music has been one of the few guiding lights keeping me going forward. I am still trying to figure out who I am, where I'm going, and who I want to *be*...but I know there's a great star waiting to shine brightly within me. I know I'm rad af on the inside, just working on letting it out. #LoveAndPeace #AndShadowAcademy \m/
I'm crying
The Dan & Shoocharu collaboration has come a long way since Peppermint Creams
I personally prefer less effects on vocals, but it's an astounding piece of art regardless. Great work on the song and amazing job on the video. 🔥
How have I only just now heard about this?????
Dan's voice really takes me back to the 80's. Still the best decade.
Pretty sure my Dad always tells me that he sounds like Donnie Wahlberg
Dude shoo nailed the facial expressions in this one, sadness, wonder, determination, hope, concern. All the emotions expressed just through the facial expressions is just chefs kiss.
Gotta love Sir Daniel Sexbang for spreading so much happiness on the internet
2 years later this is still my favorite song love you danny