Synopsis

Steed Lord's "Bed of Needles" is a performance-driven visual built around Svala Kali and two dancers moving through stark, shadowy spaces. Their angular choreography and highly stylized makeup create an otherworldly mood, while close-ups and fragmented editing emphasize tension, vulnerability, and physical intensity. The Los Angeles performance footage is intercut with Icelandic volcanic landscapes, contrasting human movement with ancient, elemental imagery. Rather than following a conventional storyline, the video translates the song's melancholy electronic pulse into a dark, ritualistic dance piece.

Factoids & Trivia

• The video was filmed across two locations: Los Angeles and Iceland. Production took place in March and April 2011, with the finished video released in September of that year.

• Choreography was created by Sonya Tayeh, whose work brings a contemporary dance vocabulary to the video's sharp, tense physicality.

• The dancers credited alongside Svala Kali are Chantel Aguirre and Michelle Dawley.

• The makeup team included Heba Thorisdottir, Soley Astudottir, Sherri Simmons, Molly Tissavary, Hildur Arsaelsdottir, and Mandy Artusato.

• Icelandic volcanic footage was supplied by Ozzo, giving the Los Angeles dance scenes a geological counterpoint and reinforcing the video's elemental atmosphere.

• "Bed Of Needles" was the first single from Steed Lord's second studio album, "Heart II Heart." The song was released in March 2010, well before the music video appeared.

• The band described the track as melancholy and sad despite its driving dance production. That contrast is reflected in the video, which pairs energetic choreography with an austere and uneasy visual tone.

• The project reflects Steed Lord's broader DIY approach. The group was involved in music, video, fashion, styling, and visual design, while also working with Los Angeles-based collaborators and the dancers' creative team.