Mary In The Junkyard, fresh off the release of their debut EP This Old House last year and currently touring alongside Wet Leg, have dropped a new single titled “Drains.” The track is a guitar-fueled exploration of the hidden world beneath our feet. Vocalist Clari Freeman-Taylor’s dynamic voice conveys themes of mental instability and the solace found in unexpected connections.

“I am curious about the bowels of the city, we don’t see what’s below but there are many pipes and caves and my friend onc said ‘if you bury yourself i will dig you out again’ and I wanted to immortalise it because it made me feel so warm,” Freeman-Taylor explained.

The song is accompanied by a video, directed by Edie Lawrence, featuring live-action puppetry. The visual introduces a character residing in the sewers, who emerges through drains to observe the human world. The reception to these subterranean dwellers, however, isn’t universally positive.

The Making of “Drains” Music Video

Edie Lawrence’s direction brings a playful, yet poignant, dimension to “Drains.” The use of live-action puppetry creates a tangible connection to the sewer-dwelling protagonist, inviting viewers to consider the unseen lives existing just beneath the surface of their everyday world.

“I am curious about the bowels of the city… and my friend once said ‘if you bury yourself i will dig you out again’ and I wanted to immortalise it because it made me feel so warm.”

Understanding Urban Infrastructure

Urban infrastructure refers to the basic physical and organizational structures needed for a city to function. This includes systems like water supply, sewage, power grids, transportation networks, and interaction lines. These systems are frequently enough unseen, yet thay are essential for public health, economic activity, and overall quality of life.
Infrastructure Australia
american Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)

The development of urban infrastructure has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. The Romans,such as,were renowned for their advanced aqueducts and sewer systems. Over time,these systems have evolved to meet the changing needs of growing populations and technological advancements.
History.com
Britannica

Modern cities face notable challenges in maintaining and upgrading their infrastructure.Aging systems,increasing demand,and the impacts of climate change all contribute to the need for innovative solutions and sustainable practices. Investing in resilient and efficient infrastructure is crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of urban centers.
EPA
world Bank