Archie Duffield

Cowgate: The Cutting Edge - Project Description

The aim of this project was to examine the different ways music impacted the film making process of a documentary about music venues in Cowgate. The project itself entailed the writing, shooting and editing of the film whilst the write-up focused on the theoretical basis for the actions taken during production. Attention was paid to different ways in which music impacted the film-making process, from creative choices to more practical considerations and how each of these categories impacted each part of the project. The relationship between sound and screen was also examined with considerations on what effect having a musician as the producer/director had on the making of the film.

Venue Shooting

The production of this documentary took place at three  locations: St Cecilia's Hall, Stramash and La Belle Angele. The main objective in each venue was to capture their unique sound and what makes them special to visit. I wanted people to watch this film and be inspired to see the venues for themselves and become a part of a community that shapes music in Edinburgh.

My Team

I would not have been able to complete this project without the help of the amazing team I gathered. 

So a massive thank you to:

Nathan Landon: Photography, recording engineer and sound designer.

Marie Trestrail: Assistant producer/director, cinematographer and assistant editor.

Matt Warlow: Cinematographer and editor.

I look forward to working with you all again!

The Weight of Perfection

The story of the EP follows my own internal to find my deepest thoughts and fears about music and to confront them head on. Each song represents a different layer of my consciousness: first of joy but unease; then panic and movement; anxiety; perfectionism and self-doubt before finally catharsis and acceptance. 

Imagery of Birds

Imagery of birds plays an important role in this process, first being heard at the end of the second track to signify the arrival within my inner world. This is due to my deep curiosity and respect for birds who seem able to sing with their whole being with no fear of mistakes. The name for this EP, ‘With Broken Wings’, comes from me attempting to understand my hesitations and worries, ultimately asking myself the question “am I just a bird with broken wings?”.