I think the song's also an obvious reference to Bob Dylan's 'Subterranean Homesick Blues' - of which the opening line is: 'Johnny's in the basement mixing up the medicine...'
Interesting as Johnny Borrell was quoted as saying "If Dylan's making the chips then I'm drinking the champagne". People thought he was up himself but that statement was taken out of context however as Borrell was comparing his and Dylan's first albums, not their overall career. I personally think this song is more of a respectful nod to the Dylan classic, using a similar beat poetry style and rhythm but putting it in a more modern 'London' context. And I love it!
I think the song's also an obvious reference to Bob Dylan's 'Subterranean Homesick Blues' - of which the opening line is: 'Johnny's in the basement mixing up the medicine...' Interesting as Johnny Borrell was quoted as saying "If Dylan's making the chips then I'm drinking the champagne". People thought he was up himself but that statement was taken out of context however as Borrell was comparing his and Dylan's first albums, not their overall career. I personally think this song is more of a respectful nod to the Dylan classic, using a similar beat poetry style and rhythm but putting it in a more modern 'London' context. And I love it!