Elliot Simpson satirizes our obsessions - and probably predicts what is just around the corner - in his enjoyable video for DJ and producer Joel Corry, set in a rehab retreat for a select few who are addicted to their smartphones.

The psychological impact of smartphones has become a common theme in music videos in the past year or so, but this has the benefit of being more comedic than doomladen, and Elliot Simpson creates a cast of likeable characters, struggling to readjust to the challenge of life without phones, and having to work very hard on their non-screen-based social skills. 

Joel Corry fits in well into this ensemble cast, playing a counsellor in the facility - a suitable role, as he is not only a DJ/producer but also a fitness instructor in real life.

And let's face it, smartphone addiction rehab is surely coming in real life, very soon... 

ELLIOT SIMPSON:

“For the Joel Corry ‘Lonely’ video I wanted to create a tongue-in-cheek narrative, inspired by the track title, but with a bit of a twist. Exploring the idea that with today’s technology we’re more connected than ever, but at the same time more lonely than ever. So I came up with the concept of creating a country rehab retreat for people who are addicted to smartphones.

"There were a couple of references for the video, main one being the film The Lobster, which I love, as well as the Nosedive episode from the Black Mirror series. If you’ve seen either of them then I’m sure you’ll spot the references!"