Here’s the video for ‘Barbed Wire’, the latest single from artist, singer and producer Pat Carter. Over a restless rhythm from drummer Alssandro Guida, Carter delivers a characterful vocal performance and a compelling melody. There’s a sense of urgency in his message and his evocative lyricism, set against the rich tones and warm layers of Phil Farrow’s Rhodes.
In the accompanying video, the artwork we see was created by Carter himself, with the concept and animation from by Oliver Eckert. It’s a bright, vibrant visual, full of images to immerse yourself in.
Berlin-based Carter is best known for his output with indie-Americana band Rodeo FM, with whom he has released four studio albums, including 2023’s “Right Wing Planet”. ‘Barbed Wire’ is taken from Carter’s solo debut LP, “Love in the time of Capitalism”, which was released to critical acclaim in the summer – see our 9/10 review here. Through these intimate songs, Carter explores what it means to be human and to connect with others in a capitalist world driven by profit and built on greed. Humans have become increasingly isolated statistics; our desires have become dehumanising data to be consumed by powerful corporations that have commercialised everything from love and relationships to personal, lived experiences. Carter explains: “Capitalism sells us the illusion of endless options while making real connection nearly impossible. It teaches us that opening up, showing your true colours, being authentic is a weakness. But without vulnerability, there is no love.”
This is raw, powerful music that tackles weighty themes, including alienation, disconnection and trauma, reflecting wider systemic stresses. Carter continues: “‘Love in the Time of Capitalism’ is about the radical act of connection in a system that promotes detachment, not least as a means of control. It’s about softness as resistance.” Take a listen. And resist.
