submissions
| Imogen Heap – Between Sheets Lyrics
| 16 years ago
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What really made that impression on me is the final few notes and vocalizations. The song is fairly clearly about exercising sexuality, but not in the frivolous methods critiqued in that Shins song. |
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| The Shins – Kissing the Lipless Lyrics
| 16 years ago
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I think kissing the lipless implies a kissing of body parts... also, Imogen Heap eerily apes the concluding melody in her song "Between Sheets". Maybe a reference to the sheets? |
submissions
| Regina Spektor – Laughing With Lyrics
| 16 years ago
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I think thats a good interpretation, but the implication that no one laughs AT G-d because we are all laughing WITH him, is that G-d is either laughing at us mockingly or that these situations of tragedy created by G-d are funny to her... |
submissions
| Lupe Fiasco – Daydreamin' Lyrics
| 16 years ago
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Relistening:
I think a different interpretation of this passage warrants consideration:
I had to turn my back on what got you paid
I couldn�t see had the hood on me like Abu Ghraib
His upbrining in the hood led him to not snitch and look the other way when illegal activity happens. He has the hood on him as a blinder, so deeply ingrained that he loses his ability to make decisions that will better the hood. |
submissions
| Lupe Fiasco – Daydreamin' Lyrics
| 16 years ago
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I think project building is a double entendre. The first verse refers to both hiphop, Lupe, and where he came from, and their complex relationship. The robot is the projects, Lupe has to exercise caution not to make his music too sad, too unpleasant, too unlikable, because then he will lose his ability to steer and effect change. It's how he is building his project, to give love back to the streets and educate (as in Gotta Eat), and promote social awareness on issues that aren't incredibly popular in the hood. So, Lupe is steering this project concept of his from the head of the robot, his means to an end, but at the same time, he has the "hood on him like Abu Graib", he has to be cautious that he doesn't become TOO focused on the hood and his roots, or it will blind his vision and limit his ability to maneuver.
I find something new in a Fiasco lyric every new listen. I am absolutely stunned at the depth and efficiency of his poetry. |
submissions
| Belle & Sebastian – Wrapped Up in Books Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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This song has been quite poignant for me of late. My girlfriend and I are looking at a 6 month separation by 1500 miles, and there are no two paths that we can follow; there is only one option. We truly never fight and we are really happy together, but our ambition is wrapped up in books (study abroad). This song gives me such great hope, the line "I've been unfaithful, I've been traveling abroad" (or is it a broad, ha ha) is along the lines of something I would deliver upon a return from a trip or other absence.
Such a great song, upbeat and catchy, amazing development and harmony in the final two verses, and as always, witty lyrics with actual meaning. |
submissions
| Belle & Sebastian – Piazza, New York Catcher Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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it also refers to a general family approval of the new husband/boyfriend, but one that he either feels is inadequate or that she is over deserving of; a demonstration of the position the writer gives Miss Private. |
submissions
| Belle & Sebastian – Piazza, New York Catcher Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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This is the first Belle & Sebastian song I've ever heard. It has been playing now for the last two hours straight.
I'm not a B&S expert, nor am I an expert on baseball or relationships. I think it probably is not as deep as a very obscure NY Times article, it's B&S, not the Decemberists; I also did not really see the "pitcher/catcher" gay relationship reference. From the incredible lyrical density and amazing lyric skill evidenced in this song, I doubt the writer would refer to "pitching" and "catching" in such vulgar, childish tones. I did, on the fourth or fifth play, think that perhaps it was, but listening now, I must agree, this is definitely about a heterosexual couple, perhaps in secret, perhaps not, but I must wholeheartedly agree with the interpretation by Neon Green Enthusiast, it more likely than not is a personal interpretation by the usual song writer about his relationship, which may have began in secret, but he wishes to marry; I also think it is likely about a honeymoon that extends into a life in San Fran, my evidence being the "rented virginal rooms" reference. The conclusion almost seems like the ending of a letter, "I wish that you were here with me to pass the dull weekend" makes me feel that. |
submissions
| Ben Folds – You Don't Know Me (feat. Regina Spektor) Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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I've always had an ear for Ben Folds, but none of his songs have really resonated with me like this one has. It's not because of the lyrics, particularly, their fairly simple and straightforward; it's the duet pairing with Spektor, who I would snatch up in a heartbeat. The duet writing is positively stunning, the way the song accommodates both artists' strengths, namely Ben's more down to Earth, less ornate vocals with Regina's very precise, absolutely gorgeous flourishes. It still retains the kind of boyish angst you get from Ben Folds songs, but adds something new that I really enjoy.
And for the record, I believe Regina sings "paint me any face". |
submissions
| The Cardigans – Iron Man (Black Sabbath cover) Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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At first I was hesitant to accept this song, but later came to enjoy it fully. The stark contrast between the original and this, and the fact the lyrics are discernible and frank, bring new meaning to this song.
I love the new take on the riff too. I view it as less of a tribute and more of a satire at the ridiculousness of the attitude of black/death metal bands, and the song is the vessel of revenge.
I'm convinced it's about a statue that falls over. But that's just me. |
submissions
| Katy Perry – I Kissed a Girl Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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lol... the criticism of other people for being too conservative? on a katy perry song? get over your conservative family values? thats why katy perry's songs ARE offensive, the values are at the heart of all of them, you just have to look. Whatever, I mean if you want to cash in because you're young and singing songs about kissing another girl, so be it. Good thing no one buys albums anymore... |
submissions
| Katy Perry – Ur So Gay Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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...and this song is JUST a song like Mein Kampf is JUST a book.
Seriously, allowing racism, sexism, and disciminatory terms to be popularized is just another step down the path. I hate Katy Perry not because she can't find a niche be it in the Christian music scene or the popular music market, but because her music and lyrics are patronizing, imbecilic, and solely jumping on selling trends (i.e. mocking emo or scene kids, kissing girls). |
submissions
| M.I.A. – Paper Planes Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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I should probably clarify that. In some Arab countries "Al Salaam Alaikum is shortened to Sa'am Alaiku, which is where I got the original idea that was what she was saying. I still think thats part of her argument in the song. After watching the video, I think it's actually dual in meaning, one is how the West generally views immigrants, and the other is how the West generally treats developing countries. This is clarified in the video, where people are buying sandwiches with platinum necklaces and watches; obviously you wouldn't trade a 5,000 dollar necklace for a sandwich unless A) you are starving, B) you are getting conned, scammed, etc., or C) you are retarded.
Final note: I think the lyrics are wrong, it should be "running when we hit armor", comparing immigrants to asymmetrical warfighters, like insurgents or rioters armed with sticks, stones, weed (I guess... I dunno), and bombs (like IED's). I'm not 100% on this, but I've heard it this way every time. |
submissions
| M.I.A. – Paper Planes Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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It's not gangsta rap... it's social commentary on perception of immigrants. Americans especially (as this song was written after she was denied an American Visa) are worried immigrants are going to "take our money" and undermine our security. The references to the drug trade I'm assuming have to do with the large number of immigrants in London who are involved in it. I definately agree, though, that this song is heading in a direction that I'm not positive I want her to head.
What I reallllllllly loved about this song, that basically sold me on it, is the "some some some I murder, some some I let go". The first time I heard that, I thought she was speaking Arabic (Sam Sam Salaam Alaikum, Wa ailakum Salaam means Hello and Good Bye) |
submissions
| M.I.A. – Bamboo Banga Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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You know, I'm really not positive because I'm a yank, but isn't "banger" slang for penis? I know in some Indian Ocean/ Philippino islands men strap bamboo shoots on their penis as a phallous and as part of a coming of age ceremony. |
submissions
| M.I.A. – 20 Dollar Lyrics
| 17 years ago
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Juxtaposedhalf pretty much got the lyric corrections I wanted to make, but I think there are one or two more.
"So I woke up with my Holy Qu'ran and found out I like Kaballah" (Jewish Mysticism, I'm guessing this is to deride the religious fighting between Jews and Muslims, although not incredibly prevalent in Africa though...)
I think it is titty set, I'm not entirely sure though.
I love her take on Blue Monday. |
submissions
| Neutral Milk Hotel – Oh Comely Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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I believe it is Autonym instead of automy; autonym meaning either your own name or a work published under your name... perhaps referencing Anne.
Overall, I believe it is the woe and regret experienced at the end of a sexual relationship, and the wish that he could be with someone as idealic or mythical as Anne Frank (or possibly her anyways.) The contrast between the harmonic chord progression and the overtly sexual language and implications is truly magnificent. |
submissions
| Regina Spektor – A Cannon Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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I'm not positive, but I believe this song is in the key of either A or a minor, I don't have perfect pitch or a trained ear so I'm not sure... One of my favorite Regina tracks, I think it is more about nursery rhymes and fairy tales sung to children and the dreams they provoke. Thats how it's "woken up once and I'm woken up twice and woken up millions of times", and the way people try to interpret the children's stories. |
submissions
| Kanye West – Stronger Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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I really think it's ironic that Kanye says:
i ask, cause i'm not sure
do anybody make real shit anymore?
And answers his own question by using a sample. Kanye makes great adaptations of other's original music and flows over it, but I'd hardly say he's making real "shit". |
submissions
| Metric – Patriarch on a Vespa Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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This is not a coming of age tale, nor is it a feminist manefisto: it's the thesis of the album- Live it Out. Don't focus on being chaste and chasing success (unless thats what you enjoy), enjoy life because it is short and can end any minute |
submissions
| Metric – Too Little Too Late Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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I'm positive it's a song more about morals dictated by others and how it affects human behavior... I'm not positive if it's a pro-individualist song or a dig at the selfishness of the actions of those in the song.
(The line is you CAN'T take a childhood friend to the bedroom |
submissions
| Immortal Technique – The Cause of Death Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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It's pretty straight forward; Technique really is a brilliant lyricist, his flow is impeccable. I'm not sure, I couldn't count the beats, but is it 6-6-6 of the different tones in the background?
While I may disagree with Marxist ideology and his anti-Republican statements, (since I'm conservative), it's still great music. |
submissions
| Sufjan Stevens – The Avalanche Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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Completely off topic: but the album artwork actually features a Chevy Avalanche truck... which I thought was hilariously clever. |
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| Sufjan Stevens – Dear Mr. Supercomputer Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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The "God is Dead" could be linked the the "superman" comment. I take this from a philosophical stand point; it is literally a question if a computer that acts human has a soul. I initially misheard the background lyrics as (Some will go some won't go, they will go they will go, no they won't no they won't) or something... it certainly made me think about what makes people different than automatons, or even other animals, and left me with the question: Does rational thought entail possession of a soul? |
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| Sufjan Stevens – Saul Bellow Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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The Ecclesiastes quote is insightful. Since sufjan often uses biblical references and is a devout Christian, he could be comparing one wise man to another. |
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| Sufjan Stevens – Springfield, or Bobby Got a Shadfly Caught in His Hair Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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No way this song is about drugs. "messenger man" is how she is using him to make a statement. Since he doesn't want to turn in to his father who worked himself to death, so he takes the womans offer for an affair. His wife with the knife on the bicycle... I'm not entirely sure, but I think thats kind of dangerous, eh? Probably means she killed herself or tried to kill him, literally or figuratively.
But I guess I could see how you could wrongly think it was a drug song... the angle is there, but I doubt thats where sufjan is going with it. |
submissions
| Orenda Fink – Bloodline Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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No no, it's about genetics. Orenda is lamenting the tragedies of her geneology by tracing her family roots and finding a slave plantation, presumably run by a woman who married for money. It is also a take on that culture; they (the dead) have taken with them the ringing of their church bells. It is also about genetic determinism; she doesn't want to wind up as her great grand whatever did.
The video is full of the different meanings of "taking hands" |
submissions
| The Shins – When I Goose-Step Lyrics
| 18 years ago
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I think Mercer is being self conscious:
He is thanking the girl for not judging him by his appearance; this kind of unconditional love is common in father daughter relationships. |
submissions
| Regina Spektor – Fidelity Lyrics
| 19 years ago
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This song turned me on to Regina after I first saw her on Conan. I think I'm the only one who doesn't think this is a song about a woman and a man; even though Regina is prone to character studies (and rarely prone to self disclosure) in her music, this song is not about a relationship, but about her love for music and what her life would be without it. I also believe this song is a bit of an ode to the hundreds of songs she never has a chance to write, record, and perform (to which she is being infidelous [side note, is that a word?]). Of course, the relationship dynamic is also there; the song is a brilliantly written multiple entendre. |
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