In regards to the meaning of this song:
Before a live performance on the EP Five Stories Falling, Geoff states “It’s about the last time I went to visit my grandmother in Columbus, and I saw that she was dying and it was the last time I was going to see her. It is about realizing how young you are, but how quickly you can go.”
That’s the thing about Geoff and his sublime poetry, you think it’s about one thing, but really it’s about something entirely different. But the lyrics are still universal and omnipresent, ubiquitous, even. So relatable. That’s one thing I love about this band. I also love their live performances, raw energy and Geoff’s beautiful, imperfectly perfect vocals. His voice soothes my aching soul.
People my people -- the cat in the steeple --
and everyone here I need your ear so be cool for a few
I feel a funny emotion, a negative notion
a tear in the air, an unseen stare, if I'm wrong then I'm wrong
what I say?
Senors and senoras -- they cannot ignore us --
we know that they know the score, it's there at the core --always been
and we could give it up all nice, or put it on cold ice
while that could suffice I give these dreams up in hell -- ring a bell --
what I say?
Somebody's got to pay for the piano
Somebody's got to make sure we honor everyone
I know if we can forfeit all our sorrow, it may as well be us
People my people, supreme to my equal
say not a word I know you're tired so am I, I could cry
you know you knew it would be hard to play such a bad card
lower your guard to unseen harm 'cos you're scarred, I can see
and the people that need you say the couldn't read you
you plant 'em a seed they claim they loved all the weeds
so you flee -- what I say?
So people my people -- the cat in the steeple --
and everyone here I know your fear like a friend -- I contend --
commandos commandettes, it wasn't a sure bet
but nothing good was and what should or could be does what it can
It's a quiet and sad choice you hear in your own voice
I know what I'd like and I can't say anymore: Je t'adore
so break it down...
and everyone here I need your ear so be cool for a few
I feel a funny emotion, a negative notion
a tear in the air, an unseen stare, if I'm wrong then I'm wrong
what I say?
Senors and senoras -- they cannot ignore us --
we know that they know the score, it's there at the core --always been
and we could give it up all nice, or put it on cold ice
while that could suffice I give these dreams up in hell -- ring a bell --
what I say?
Somebody's got to pay for the piano
Somebody's got to make sure we honor everyone
I know if we can forfeit all our sorrow, it may as well be us
People my people, supreme to my equal
say not a word I know you're tired so am I, I could cry
you know you knew it would be hard to play such a bad card
lower your guard to unseen harm 'cos you're scarred, I can see
and the people that need you say the couldn't read you
you plant 'em a seed they claim they loved all the weeds
so you flee -- what I say?
So people my people -- the cat in the steeple --
and everyone here I know your fear like a friend -- I contend --
commandos commandettes, it wasn't a sure bet
but nothing good was and what should or could be does what it can
It's a quiet and sad choice you hear in your own voice
I know what I'd like and I can't say anymore: Je t'adore
so break it down...
Lyrics submitted by patgas
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@[Diderik:33655] "Your a holiday!" Was a popular term used in the 50s/60s to compliment someone on their all around. For example, not only are they beautiful, but they are fun and kind too ... just an all around "holiday".
I think your first comment is closer to being accurate. The singer/song writers state "Millions of eyes can see, yet why am i so blind!? When the someone else is me, its unkind its unkind". I believe hes referring to the girl toying with him and using him. He wants something deeper with her, thats why he allows himself to be as a puppet (even though for her fun and games) as long as it makes her happy. But he knows deep down that she doesnt really want to be serious with him and thats what makes him.
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I think much like another song “Anti-Matter” (that's also on the same album as this song), this one is also is inspired by a horrifying van crash the band experienced on Nov 3, 2022. This, much like the other track, sounds like it's an extension what they shared while huddled in the wreckage, as they helped frontman Garrett Russell stem the bleeding from his head wound while he was under the temporary effects of a concussion. The track speaks of where the mind goes at the most desperate & desolate of times, when it just about slips away to all but disconnect itself, and the aftermath.
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This song was originally written by a guy called Peter Gutteridge. He was one of the founders of the "Dunedin Sound" a musical scene in the south of New Zealand in the early 80s. From there it was covered by "The Clean" one of the early bands of that scene (he had originally been a member of in it's early days, writing a couple of their best early songs). The Dunedin sound, and the Clean became popular on american college radio in the mid to late 80s. I guess Yo La Tengo heard that version.
Great version of a great song,
Just A Little Lovin'
Dusty Springfield
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I don't think it's necessarily about sex. It's about wanting to start the day with some love and affection. Maybe a warm cuddle. I'm not alone in interpreting it that way! For example:
"'Just a Little Lovin’ is a timeless country song originally recorded by Eddy Arnold in 1954. The song, written by Eddie Miller and Jimmy Campbell, explores the delicate nuances of love and showcases Arnold’s emotive vocals. It delves into the universal theme of love and how even the smallest gesture of affection can have a profound impact on our lives." https://oldtimemusic.com/the-meaning-behind-the-song-just-a-little-lovin-by-eddy-arnold/
everything about this song rocks. and one thing i can honestly say about DP is that its almost impossible to directly compare them with anyone. also the songwriting style is different, these lyrics seem conversational, almost.