Single/video review: Marilyn Manson – Hey, Cruel World

Hey, Cruel World is from Manson’s new album Born Villan, the singer’s eight full-length album, directed by Tim Mattia – who has also directed for My Chemical Romance and Korn, and who often creates videos for AmpRockTV.

With a slow yet driving beat to start, the single strips back the sound, but once again brings forward those classic voice filters Manson is known for. This cut-back style is echoed in the video, stylish and slick, all in black and white. A simple, performance-based video interjected with masked individuals, it has a classic Manson feel: lots of exaggerated mouth movements coupled with odd camera angles. Not as extravagant as previous videos, this single seems to be centered more on the song and music rather than shocking the audience, which is what Manson has tended to do in previous videos.

The song itself is stripped back so much more than usual. Even when the beat drops into the body of song, it doesn’t last for long and we revert back to glitchy guitar and drums. It’s as if he wants us focusing on the lyrics more than anything. Despite retaining that classic shouting style, mixed with glitchy breathy passages and a simple accompaniment, this is certainly something different from Manson. However, his vocal style still pushes through and is easily recognisable.

Fans will love this single – it’s not for everyone, but certainly a single and video for metal fans, especially ones who have followed his career from classics such as Tainted Love and Beautiful People and earlier. Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie will be visiting the UK as part of their Twins Of Evil tour in late November, with a show at the O2 Arena on the 26^th November.

Verdict: •••

Helen Whitcher 

For tickets and other information visit Marilyn Manson’s official website.

Watch the video for Hey, Cruel World here: