Watch Incubus - The Morning View Sessions

Incubus - The Morning View Sessions is not a traditional movie in the sense of having a scripted narrative, plot, and characters played by actors. Instead, it's a unique film that blends concert footage, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and artist interviews, offering fans of the band Incubus a deeper insight into one of their most significant album eras. The film is centered around the release of their album "Morning View," named after the house in Malibu, California, where it was recorded.

The "Morning View Sessions" concert film was released in 2002, following the success of Incubus's "Morning View" album, which dropped in late 2001. This release served to cement Incubus's reputation as one of the defining alternative rock bands of the early 2000s. For those unfamiliar with the band, Incubus is composed of Brandon Boyd (lead vocals), Mike Einziger (guitar), Alex "Dirk Lance" Katunich (bass), Chris Kilmore (turntables, keyboards), and José Pasillas (drums). Their sound is known for its inventive mix of rock, nu-metal, alternative, and elements of electronic music, along with thought-provoking lyrics and Boyd's versatile vocal delivery.

The movie is primarily a concert film, featuring the band performing a setlist mostly made up of tracks from the "Morning View" album. This includes hits like "Wish You Were Here," "Nice to Know You," and "Warning," among others. Each song is delivered with the energy and commitment that Incubus is known for, capturing the band in their prime as live performers. The members play off each other dynamically, showcasing not just their musical talents but also the chemistry that has contributed to their long-term success.

What makes Incubus - The Morning View Sessions particularly compelling is that it's not just a straightforward recording of a live performance. Interspersed between the musical performances are candid interviews with band members. These conversations provide context to the creation of the "Morning View" album, revealing the inspirations, challenges, and artistic decisions involved in crafting the songs. Fans are given an inside look at the band's creative process, from the initial songwriting stages to the rehearsal room, and how these translate to the energy and vibe of a live show.

Furthermore, the aesthetic of the film complements the music, utilizing both the scenic setting of the Morning View house and a variety of visual effects that add an artistic layer to the viewing experience. The camera work is intimate, often giving a close-up view of the musicians as they immerse themselves in their performance, while also capturing the live audience's reaction to the band's electric stage presence.

The setting for the concert component of the film is unique and symbolic. Performed at a custom-built set on the Sony Studios lot in New York City, which was designed to replicate the atmosphere of the Morning View house, the band is surrounded by a mixture of serene landscapes and modern production design. This choice of location for the performance ties back to the themes and feelings explored on the album itself—those of reflection, introspection, and a certain peace found within the dynamic energy of their music.

The Morning View Sessions additionally delves into the individual members of Incubus, touching on their personal journeys and evolutions during the band's ascent to fame. For instance, viewers get insight into frontman Brandon Boyd's approach to songwriting and vocal expression, while seeing guitarist Mike Einziger's sonic experimentation and scholarship. Bassist Alex Katunich offers his grounded perspective, and Chris Kilmore brings a commentary on the band's experimentation with texture and layering, thanks in part to his turntable and keyboard work. The film underscores how each member's contribution is an integral part of Incubus's sound and success.

For enthusiasts and aficionados of the band Incubus, The Morning View Sessions is more than just a concert film; it's a chronicle of a defining moment in their career. It invites the audience to not only hear their music but to witness the humanity and artistic determination that drive the band. This film stands as an in-depth portrait of Incubus during this particular era of their musical journey, offering both nostalgic pleasure to long-time fans and an engaging introduction to those discovering the band's legacy for the first time.

In sum, Incubus - The Morning View Sessions from 2002 is a definitive piece for any collection of music documentaries or concert films. It provides a thorough look into the making of a pivotal album for the band, framed through powerful live performances and enlivened with personal insights from the members themselves. This multi-dimensional experience helps solidify the place of Incubus within the broader landscape of early 2000s alternative rock.