By DCist Contributor Sung Min Kim

Clones of Clones’ new music video is another District-flavored visual treat from Nigel Lyons, who previously worked on videos for Paperhaus’ single “Cairo” and Deleted Scenes’ “Landfall.”

At first glance, the video seems like a classic unrequited story with a modern location of Meridian Hill Park. According to the band’s vocalist (and the video’s central character), Ben Payes, Lyons’s work is the director’s own interpretation of the song.

“It is told out of order, which is kind of an ode to [the film] “Memento”,” Payes says. “Guy locks his eyes on a girl, girl breaks up with her boyfriend and guy [does the same] to pursue each other.” Scandalous!

With Brian Abbott’s energetic drumming, a series of playful bass riffs and fuzzy guitar supplements, Hayes’ character becomes more than a sad sack. Pleading yet triumphant vocals tie together the elements of a fun and catchy garage rock track.

According to Payes, the single is a change of pace from their upcoming album, Monster Heart, which he describes to be “much darker” overall, as evidenced by “I Don’t Need Your Love,” another single from the upcoming album [which also features a Modest Mouse cover].

Monster Heart, the band’s first LP, is officially out on October 6. Clones of Clones are lining up a series of shows to celebrate the release.