Orillia, ON, folk-roots duo Steve and Marni Van Kessel (VK) are proud to share their official music video today for “Smelling Like Roses,” the latest track taken from their 2019 “Charm” album. Written by Steve Van Kessel, this adventurous tale of overcoming adversity is brought to life through the visual artistry of animation. “[We] metaphorically share a unique expression of how your darkest fears can be conquered with hope and conviction,” the duo share. “A very fitting story and message for the times we all find ourselves living in right now!”
Opening with a light drum roll and beat that quickly determines the pace, Steve opens this tale against the backbeat, his voice provoked at pivotal moments by the energetic bursts of vintage organ. “I was once struck by lightening / You’d think it’d be frightening / But it helped me to see / I was flying a kite / In the middle of the night / The only time I had to be free.” As our intrepid animated hero lives through these scenes, “Amidst the chaos and smoke / I saw this old bloke,” the source of hope and resilience is introduced (with an uncanny familiarity to a well-known Torontonian) to offer prominent words of wisdom. “When it’s all done, you’ll come out smelling like roses,” are delivered passionately, with Marni’s soothing sounds offering a perfect accompaniment to Steve’s powerful lead.
Faced with an untamed beast on the African plains one moment, and some rooftop suspense the next, our animated hero clings on to the wise words bestowed upon him time and time again. “The imagery through animations, the engaging story, and the music all work together to captivate and entertain,” the duo offer. “When it’s all done, you’ll come out smelling like roses.”
The British guy that crossed the ocean and crash landed in central Pennsylvania (to quote Greg Keelor, “And I wonder what am I doing here?”). As the youngest of four siblings, exposure to music from a very early age nurtured my passion and appreciation for many musical genres. Continuing to discover some amazingly diverse and talented musicians based in Canada, I gravitate to live music experiences and remain devoted to spreading the word about such a vibrant music scene.
