Recap: Oktober

Duran finally takes the “Pressure Off”

At long last, Duran Duran released the video for “Pressure Off” on Oct. 21, and it was worth the wait. Video director and longtime collaborator Nick Egan took to the Duran Duran Message Board to answer fans’ questions about the arty clip. Egan revealed that the video was inspired by Philippe Halsman’s photographs (hence all the jumping around) and that the logistics of getting the members of Duran, Nile Rodgers and Janelle Monae all in one place was a reason the release was delayed. What’s clear from the clip is that Simon, John, Roger and even Nick are having fun, their smiles shining bright even in black and white. The impact of the video remains to be seen. The stark, modern imagery and the fact that “Pressure Off” features faces more recently seen on music television (Monae and Rodgers, with Daft Punk) bode well.

duranduran.com

Awards roll in...again

Remember before and after the “Astronaut” album was released, when a newly reunited Duran couldn’t seem to not win a lifetime achievement award? Well, so far this year, Duran has both a Q ICON Award and an EMA Visionary Award under its collective belts. Duran co-conspirator Mark Ronson made an appearance with the band at the EMAs, and Charli XCX (she of “The Hunger Games” duet with Simon) presented the band with the Q honor. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. is advertising “Paper Gods” for Grammy consideration. Hopefully, it’s a sign the awards rush won’t stop.

Duran Duran at Red Rocks, where they debuted
“What Are the Chances?” live. Photo by Christopher Windle.

Duran amps up Euro promotion

As Duran gears up for a pre-Christmas tour of the U.K., the band is in TV promotion mode, with recent appearances on “X Factor Italia” and “Later...With Jools Holland.” The live showcase the latter provides meant the band performed more than just “Pressure Off,” as live standout “What Are the Chances?” and classics “Notorious” and “Wild Boys” also were on display. U.S. fans can tune in to watch the show Nov. 5 on Palladia.