Ohio-born singer-songwriter Darrin Hacquard brings his wit and storytelling to life in the new music video for “Drunken Philosopher.” The track is a confessional piece from his upcoming album Weights and Measures, out October 17 via Like You Mean It Records.
The song explores his past relationship with drinking, described by Hacquard as going “face-to-face with my past drinking problem. That’s a little bit of an apology to myself and to others that I’ve done wrong, but also a bit of a screw you.” The visuals of the video reflect his honesty through their handmade style.
There is no overcomplicated or polished production in the “Drunken Philosopher” video, consisting of drawings and handwritten scribbles that feel like pages from a personal journal, mirroring the journey of Hacquard’s struggles with alcohol. It captures the real humour and vulnerability of the lyrics in the song, reminding us of Hacquard’s reputation as a remarkable storyteller.
Artist Glen Smakula, who created the video, took inspiration by making a connection between “Drunken Philosopher” and the Allegory of Plato’s cave: “Leaving the cave, in this case by distancing himself from alcohol, reveals just how distorted and insular perceptions are on the inside, yet he retains a fondness for the characters he knows from his barfly days,”
Hacquard shares, “I know a host of characters who fit this archetype – the drunken sage – but this song is an ode to one friend in particular who lived a thousand lives… The song is also vaguely autobiographical, and commemorates the individual who recognizes their flaws but stands – or wobbles – fully atoned on the path of self-actualization.”
“’Weights and Measures’ sort of alludes to the struggles I’ve had over the last ten years, about calculated measures of growth,” … “With these songs, I decided I had said my piece about mental illness… I made an effort to write songs that were positive.”
Weights and Measures, produced by longtime collaborator Severn Edmondson with guitar contributions from Don Rogers, brings together Hacquard’s wide range of influences, from Jimmy Buffett to Guided By Voices. The 13-track collection marks a new chapter for Hacquard, whose songwriting was once featured in a Sundance-premiering film and whose debut album Signs and Wonders blended psychedelic rock with old-time fiddle.
Throughout his career, Hacquard has built a reputation as a beloved figure in the Appalachian music scene, known in songwriting circles and admired by fellow musicians.
With the release of the music video for “Drunken Philosopher” and Weights and Measures on the horizon, Hacquard continues to use his talent for songwriting, storytelling, humour, and reflection – and he invites you to join him.
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