Trippy animated tribute to Watts Moon Starr by Kelley Stoltz

There is something profoundly groovy about stepping outside the mundane, and Kelley Stoltz has bottled that feeling into his latest offering, If You Don’t Know Me, Buy Now!. This new album isn’t just music; it’s a psychedelic tribute to some of the most iconic rock drummers of all time, presented through a visually arresting lens that blurs the line between reality and the cosmic.

The sonic experience is perfectly matched by the accompanying video, “Watts Moon Starr,” a surreal animated piece that takes listeners on a journey from an urban landscape into outer space. The stunning visuals were brought to life by illustrator and album/poster artist Dave Van Patten, who has already earned recognition for his work, including a Grammy in 2023 for his contribution to the Grateful Dead box set “In and Out of the Garden ‘81 ‘82 ‘83.”

Van Patten’s vision for the piece was born from a deeply personal observation. He found his inspiration while walking through his neighborhood at night, noticing how his footsteps seemed to fall perfectly in sync with the rhythm of the beat. This reflective experience transformed into an artistic self-portrait—a character that feels like an alien observer navigating the world. The journey into space, he explains, wasn’t a kidnapping, but rather a beautiful return home.

This unique blend of introspective observation and cosmic escapism gives the entire project a wonderful sense of wanderlust. It’s a reminder that the most profound journeys often begin with the simplest movements.

While the artistic vision is expansive, Kelley Stoltz remains firmly rooted in the live music scene. He is currently gearing up for a lively tour across the UK and Europe this autumn, bringing his sound to audiences from Glasgow to Madrid.

His schedule is packed with exciting dates, including an upcoming session for BBC 6 Music with Marc Riley in London, adding another layer of exposure for his unique brand of music. This tour promises a chance for fans to experience the creative energy that fuels the album live.

Beyond the music and visuals, Stoltz continues to share insights into his process. He has discussed the creation of the new work in interviews, exploring collaborations with figures like Robin Hitchcock’s band and Echo and the Bunnymen, offering a deeper look into the creative forces behind If You Don’t Know Me, Buy Now!.

Fans looking to dive into the depth of this project can find more information about Kelley Stoltz and his work on various platforms, including discussions on the BV Interviews podcast.

Kelley Stoltz is taking his cosmic vision on the road. Keep an eye out for his upcoming performances as he brings the magic of “Watts Moon Starr” to live audiences across Europe.

Credit: BrooklynVegan