Creed Bratton, widely recognized for his role on NBC’s The Office, takes a chilling turn in the newly released music video for “Psycho Prelude,” a collaboration with veteran producer Michael Bradford. Premiering exclusively on Entertainment Weekly on June 16, the video commemorates the 65th anniversary of Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic 1960 film Psycho by reimagining its legendary score through a modern, genre-blending lens.
The track, an instrumental fusion of Bernard Herrmann’s original orchestration with contemporary hip-hop beats and fragmented vocal effects, serves as the lead single from Bradford’s forthcoming album, The Man Behind the Curtain. Bradford, known for his work with artists such as Madonna and Ringo Starr, meticulously reconstructed Herrmann’s score without sampling the original recordings, aiming to capture the essence of the classic while infusing it with a fresh, rhythmic vitality.
“His work had such a jazzy, rhythmic feel beyond just orchestral, and his range was incredible,” Bradford noted, reflecting on Herrmann’s influence. “That’s the feel I wanted for ‘Psycho Prelude.’
In the video, Bratton embodies the eerie duality of Norman Bates, delivering iconic lines like “A boy’s best friend is his mother” and “We all go a little mad sometimes.” His portrayal draws inspiration from various sinister archetypes, including Hannibal Lecter, adding a psychological depth to the performance. “It’s probably a juxtaposition of my own interpretation of what an evil, scary voice would be, spiced with a little Hannibal Lecter and, of course … ,” Bratton explained. “It’s a sick stew.”
The video, directed with a nod to Hitchcock’s stylistic nuances, features disturbing visuals: Bratton wielding kitchen knives, caressing a baby doll with smeared makeup, and gazing directly into the camera lens, evoking the unsettling atmosphere of the original film. Juliette Beavan also appears, contributing to the video’s haunting aesthetic.
Bratton’s involvement in “Psycho Prelude” marks a significant departure from his comedic persona on The Office, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Before his television fame, Bratton was a member of the 1960s rock band The Grass Roots, contributing to hits like “Let’s Live for Today.” His musical journey has been characterized by a willingness to explore diverse genres and themes, a trait evident in this latest project.
“What Creed brought to this role ,” Bradford observed. “What Creed tapped into was the .”
“Psycho Prelude” stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Hitchcock’s Psycho, demonstrating how classic works can be reinterpreted to resonate with contemporary audiences. The track and its accompanying video not only pay homage to the original film but also invite viewers to engage with its themes through a modern, musical lens.
As anticipation builds for The Man Behind the Curtain, “Psycho Prelude” offers a glimpse into Bradford’s innovative approach to music production and Bratton’s dynamic range as a performer. Together, they have crafted a piece that bridges the gap between classic cinema and modern music, inviting audiences to experience a familiar story anew.