WHOOP-Szo Share New "Nshwaaswi" Video

It's the latest from 'Warrior Down' to get some visuals

BY Allie GregoryPublished May 5, 2020

London, ON's WHOOP-Szo have shared another visual effort from their 2019 record Warrior Down.

Today marks the release of the band's new Travis Welowszky-directed music video for the instrumental album cut "Nshwaaswi," featuring a collage of vintage travel footage. The video continues the story that the band's video for "Gerry" began back in October and, according to a press release, "propagates an apocalyptic vacation, complete with doomsday boat rides, caged spirit guides and all the other privileges enjoyed at the expense of the 8th fire."

As the group's Adam Sturgeon explains, the word "Nshwaaswi" translates to the number eight in the Anishinaabe language.

"[Nshwaaswi] is the name of the eighth song on our record Warrior Down," he said in a statement. "Much of Anishinaabe culture is based around the number seven, most notably our 7 Grandfather Teachings (Truth, Love, Bravery, Respect, Humility, Honesty and Wisdom) and the stages of life. We also have a prophecy that talks about an 8th fire or stage that we as humans can choose to light. The 8th fire of prosperity, love and well-being. An eternal fire of peace."

Previously, WHOOP-Szo had released videos for other Warrior tracks, including "Amaruq" and "Long Braided Hair."

Prior to nationwide COVID-19 restrictions, the band were set to head on a massive North American tour in support of their recent record. WHOOP-Szo were also scheduled to perform alongside ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead last month during the trek. All remaining dates on the tour were cancelled in late March.

Warrior Down arrived last November via You've Changed Records. The album made it on Exclaim!'s 10 Most Underrated Albums of 2019. Its release followed the band's 2016 album Citizen's Ban(ne)d Radio.

While the band have not announced plans for an official follow up to Warrior Down, they have hinted at the release of new material in the "very near future." Stay tuned for that.

Watch the video for "Nshwaaswi" below.

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