Music video featuring gay soldier returning home from war carries powerful message

The overarching theme of a new music video by indie punk rock duo Brick + Mortar is brotherhood and humanity. “Brotherhood became the theme of the video and there is no stronger example of brotherhood than soldiers,” said music video director Rosco Guerrero.

The video tells the story of a gay soldier returning home from war.

Guerrero, who directed the “Hollow Tune” video told Popular Military that multiple veterans and active duty service members were consulted during pre-production and set building. The bunker scene in particular, “we went to great lengths to make it look authentic.”

“The African American actor is in reserves and the uniforms are authentic. However, people may notice some inconsistencies in uniform, this is on purpose because perfectly replicating a uniform on camera isn’t permissible, or at least that’s what we were told,” Guerrero said.

The inspiration for the video—which was produced by Blurred Pictures — came from the repeating lyrics “you’re not alone.”

Guerrero said:  “We realize there is controversy surrounding the topic and also that there may be some backlash, however, we really wanted to show that ultimately we’re all humans and we’re all here for each other. We wanted to send a message to people that may feel alone or alienated that they’re not alone. We’re in this together.”

The band members of Brick + Mortar told Out:  “We make music for people who believe in equality and acceptance for everyone regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or belief. This song was written about love to say: ‘You’re not alone, I’m not alone,’ to the one you love. Love is love period.’

What’s so striking about the video is that the disturbing hate-fueled scenes are juxtaposed with the images you’d normally see when a service member returns home – the families that anxiously wait, the warm hugs, the crowd back at the house preparing to surprise the soldier.

So the message comes across loud and clear — these men and women are not alone. Love is love, no matter what the soldier’s sexual orientation.

“Lyrics from Hollow Tune:  my bloodshot eyes, a one- way street to nowhere… my broken hands, my weary bones … I’m lost again but I’m still alive… I’m sorry for all that I’ve done.”

“Whether overseas, in combat or at home, we all should look out for each other,” Guerrero added.

Brick + Mortar frontman Brandon Asraf and drummer John Tacon have become a big part of the musical and artistic culture of Asbury Park — a favorite destination of the LGBT community. As the first electronic drum and bass pop duo in the area, the two have garnered a significant amount of regional success since their formation in 2008.

Watch the video here: