In May 1994, the industrial legends Nine Inch Nails released their Halo 9, “Closer.” The single jumped to number 41 on Billboard’s US Hot 100; however, its chart reign would continue for years. In 2000, 2002, 2007, and 2012, “Closer” stayed close to the top–and inescapable at industrial clubs to this day. The aggressive lyrics detail self-hatred and obsession, famously misinterpreted for lust due to its blunt chorus.

Following the release of “Dead To Me” in December 2023, Palaye Royale released their surprise EP, Sextape. It features two originals: the aforementioned single and “Desire”—along with covers of Depeche Mode’s “Stripped,” Donovan’s “Season of the Witch,” and Nine Inch Nails’ opus, “Closer.”

The music video pays tribute to the original version, directed by Anton Corbijn. The Palaye Royale rendition was directed by Yulia Shur, who also embraced the role of editor. The dark, cinematic atmosphere is completed by the gothic, distressed wardrobe and eerie set design.

Sextape resonated well with fans and critics worldwide who praised both their original works and the covers. Palaye Royale shared, “Sextape is that moment in time of complete ecstasy where the world and the problems that it holds falls by the waistline. Where you can forget who you are and enjoy pleasure.”