Synopsis

Mansun perform "Six" in a deliberately stripped-back studio setting, with the band presented in stark, formal compositions rather than a conventional narrative. The uncluttered imagery focuses attention on Paul Draper's vocal performance and the group's controlled, occasionally theatrical poses. The visual approach shifts during the song's contrasting sections, echoing the track's changing musical structure. Its restrained presentation stands apart from the elaborate character pieces and conceptual promos Mansun had made for several earlier singles.

Factoids & Trivia

• The video was intentionally sparse and modeled in part on Stanley Dorfman's classic television performances for David Bowie, particularly "Be My Wife." The middle eight also references the visual language of Bowie's "Heroes."

• Mansun had previously used several videos for the "Six" campaign in which the band members did not appear. For the title track, they were asked to be visible so audiences would know what the band looked like.

• The video accompanied a newly recorded version of "Six," produced and mixed by Arthur Baker. This single arrangement is considerably simpler than the more experimental album recording.

• The re-recorded single reached No. 16 on the UK Singles Chart in February 1999, returning Mansun to the UK Top 20 during the traditionally quiet post-Christmas release period.

• "Six" was the fourth and final single from the album campaign. The album itself was released in September 1998 and became a cult favorite for its progressive structures, abrupt changes and resistance to contemporary Britpop conventions.