When you love something or someone with everything you have, you notice different parts and features every single time you are faced with it. I guess it keeps the love and attraction going. There are different ways of being in love. When you’re in love with a band, it goes beyond that feeling of being in love with a person. A person that you may or may not be with. Then again, if the feeling isn’t reciprocated is it even real on your behalf? You don’t have to think about it. If I were you (and let’s be glad you are not me) I wouldn’t bother wasting your thoughts on it. Direct it all towards a different thing. Go read a book, go for a nap- shut off. When I feel like I just don’t want to be bothered, I just listen to music. I listen to one specific band. It doesn’t take a genius to know it is of course, Warpaint.
My love for Warpaint is one I will openly write about here. I don’t think anyone actually understands what it means to me when I get a comment or email about Warpaint and how I write about them. I’m told I manage to get out how I feel about the band in a way the person wishes they could. Thing is, Warpaint make me feel I can be totally honest and open. Since being a fan of theirs, it is like I have allowed myself to get rid of ugly feelings and replace them with something worthy of feeling. They give you this sense of openness that doesn’t make you ashamed of who you are. We all struggle at some point with who we are. You can be so together on the outside, but inside you’re a mess. Sometimes a band is all that can put you back together again. I probably wouldn’t be so laid back and calm if it wasn’t for Warpaint.
Warpaint teach you to let go. I mean really really let go. A piece of music that sounds like a battle cry for the soul, well- that’s sometimes all you need. That’s why I’m going to attempt to write about The Fool opener, Set Your Arms Down.
Setting your arms down can be seen as dropping your weapons. Giving up to your defenses and facing up to what you are, and who you are. Not to mention all you have done. I remember hearing this record and being in awe of every single build-up in every song. Even in songs like Baby,m there is a sense of intensity in that song that is overwhelming but quickly turns into one of the most vulnerable songs I have ever heard.
Set Your Arms Down is a perfect album opener. As they tell you to set your arms down, you feel it is an instruction for the listening process of the record. You must surrender to this band. You must give it up for Emily, Theresa, Jenny and Stella. They must have every single part of you as you listen to them. Thing is, Warpaint are not a band you just play in the background. They aren’t a band you tidy the house to or play for friends. They are a band you play if you want answers. They are a band you play when you want to find the part of you that has been missing for so long. They take you on a journey that you cannot ever imagine taking with anyone else. They become, with first listen, a part of you. They become a way of life.
I guess sometimes when I write about Warpaint it is like a catharsis. Like I am cleansing myself of something by listening to them and writing it down. A lot of the time, I just throw away how I feel or how certain things make me feel. Warpaint chase away all that fear. It begins on The Fool with Set Your Arms Down. The lyrics really really mean a lot to me. It is like they are telling you to give it all up and face everything. Keep trying, because it’ll be okay. It is basically like a swift kick up the arse. The intense vibe in this song is so powerful. The instrumental towards the end makes you feel as if everything you fear in life is coming towards you- and you are stood frozen. Without your defences, facing it all. The song ends, and it is totally up to you now how you deal with the outcome. Are you going to fight off all you fear? Or are you going to remain a coward?
My favourite lyric in this beautiful song has to be:
“Walk through the fire, walk ’till it gets light. There is no hiding to save your life.”
I just find it to be so important, and so true. You have to walk through hell in order to get to where you want to be. You can try to hide as much as you want, but you cannot escape all that bothers you, and at times consumes you. You just can’t That’s what I take from this song. I know I probably seem borderline mental with my love for Warpaint, but everyone has a band that give them a feeling of being able to do anything. Being able to face up to all they must. I guess what I’m trying to say, is that Warpaint give me courage. I don’t know how it is for any real Warpaint fan- but I know that there are some out there who feel this way. Warpaint don’t just sum up how you feel- they also make sense of it. Sometimes it isn’t in their lyrics, sometimes it is just the way their music flows through you.
I have played Set Your Arms Down on repeat so many times whilst going for walks. Walking to nowhere in particular. Sometimes you just need to get out and clear your heard. Warpaint do that. They cleanse you and clear your head in a way that no other band comes even remotely close to doing.
There’s a change on this song. Theresa does the drumming on this song, and she plays equally as strong as Stella. The guitars sound like water flowing through, whilst the bass-line feels like the part of you that is being held together. The song doesn’t lead you astray, it holds you together. Warpaint make you feel like you can do anything, even if you’re a shy and sensitive soul like myself; they kind of bring you out of your shell a bit. Although you cannot physically share what they have given you with anyone else, as it so sacred- you keep it in your heart, nobody can take that from you. Ever.
Every decision you make in life will one day come back around to make a mockery of you. You can go one of two ways. Or you can end up heading towards both. For instance, you could have this fucked up dream of wanting to leave where you currently are so you can make something of yourself, and in time move away to the place that spiritually owns every part of you. Then it hits you. You look back at your emails or whatever. You’ve applied to close to 40 jobs in 5 days. You’re heading nowhere so very very fast. It is worse than last time, and in a week or so you will be going back home where you’ll shut yourself off and refuse to try again. It’s happening, and with this wave of failure kicking in- I’m going to carry on writing about a band that are somewhat holding me together.
It is obvious how much I love Warpaint. From the articles I’ve written to my tattoo to the amount of times I listen to them a day. I don’t listen to them because I want to, I listen to them because I HAVE to. There’s a few bands/singers I have this love for. It becomes like a ritual. Speaking of rituals….
The start of Composure starts with some kind of ritualistic chant. You can make up your own mind with regard to what they are chanting, but I will always remain adamant that it is “THE CLIT CUT.” They’ve said it is that in a few live clips, so its fine to yell this when you see them live. You can yell it during everyday life if you want, sure it may make you mental but there is no sense of normality around us because it does not exist.
I love the intro to Composure (chant aside.) The build up in this song is much like all their songs. Extremely euphoric and catapults you right off into another world. A world that is surrounded by stars, the sea and tranquility. Everything we need but for the most part, cannot seem to get our hands on. Do we keep trying? For me, this song holds a lot of meaning. Both personally and just a general love for it. At times I’ve listened to it with a sense of overwhelming urgency hitting me in the face, and I have listened to it and thought about the phrase “You are beyond” which is sung by Emily in such a hypnotising way. Her voice has this effect on you that causes you to feel like you are trapped, but it is totally fine because her voice will also be the voice that sets you free. The concept of freedom is a different matter, but I could probably relate it to a Warpaint song easily.
“How can I keep my composure? I turn my back and you got my shoulder. Release your mind, through your hands and your feet, A sigh digs you out when you’re getting too deep.”
You try to keep it together. The “you” could be a person or a state of mind that always has a grip on you. A possible death-grip. Your conscience will fuck with you, but that’s just how it is. You let all these words and feelings out. It becomes overwhelming, then you realise you’ve probably said too much. So what can you do? Well, all you can do is just sigh. You let everything come out, an intense release that is only greeted by a sigh. Is this what it has all become now? You cannot explain a thing, just a sigh sums it up. Sometimes though, that is all you have. I an relate. Thanks Warpaint! Although I love this verse a hell of a lot, there’s just one sentence in the song that from first listen to The Fool hit me like no other. It just meant a lot from the first listen. Its been nearly two years and I am still in awe when I hear:
“A sordid spot, a monster takeover. Living in shame’s gonna haunt your sleep.”
You’re in a sordid place and something horrific takes over you. This could be your own personal Hell or you could be brave, fighting off those demons that seem to creep up on you. Then you realise, being ashamed of all of this is haunting you. You’re not functioning. You’re not living. You’re not sleeping. You’re no longer you. There’s no shame in being weak. But you feel so ashamed, it stirs you. What are you going to do about it? What can you do about it?
The thing is, Warpaint tap into that part of you that you thought nobody could ever really get into. You always knew it was there. This mystical, euphoric feelings. But you were never quite sure on how you’d reach that state of being. Being fully aware of your surroundings but at the same time- in a dreaming state. It is easy to function like this. But there’s a difference, as you know, between functioning and living. For the most part, we aren’t living.
I try to take something from when I listen to Warpaint. Whether it is a way of trying to make sense or just trying to let that nagging feeling/thought go. This is why Warpaint go beyond being a band. Songs like Composure just make so much sense. Trying to keep yourself together when you know that there is something/someone with their hand on you waiting for you to turn back around. When you face whatever it is, will you go towards it or will you keep walking away from it?
Don’t live in shame, and allow that sigh to be the most liberating thing you do. Then listen to Warpaint. Listen to them, and maybe..just maybe something will click. Something may just make a little bit of sense.
Th dreamy guitars, the swaying bass, the tense drumming and the calming vocals really come alive in Composure. It is there in every Warpaint song, but you knew that already.
It isn’t just The Kills that are celebrating an anniversary today- Warpaint are now 8 years into their career. Yep, it goes way back before 2010’s The Fool and 2009’s Exquisite Corpse.
The band formed on Valentine’s Day 2004. The band have gone through some changes over the past 8 years. Jenny’s sister Shannyn Sossamon and current Red Hot Chili Pepper’s guitarist Josh Klinghoffer were part of the band during the start. As well as David Orlando and Michael Quinn. However, it is with Stella Mozgawa, that they found a soild with. When you watch Warpaint play, or just even on record- you can really feel such positive energy coming from them- much like The Kills.
It is fairly obvious how much I love Warpaint. I think my Warpaint tattoo has cemented my love for them, but like The Kills- my love goes beyond the music. It is the way their bond can make you feel so positive about..anything and everything. Even when it all seems a bit well, shit I suppose. Music can make you feel so much, and Warpaint’s music does that. Some songs feel like a powerful confrontation, others feel like a personal confession. I can quite happily just sit in my room, in the dark listening to their music and just allowing the sounds take me to a different universe. That’s what is so beautiful about music. When you find a singer or band that you connect with on an almost spiritual level, you allow yourself to feel so weightless and just drift off into a whole different place. A place where you can feel free without the shackles of every day life.
I remember first hearing Warpaint for the first time in 2009. I was researching some Billie Holiday songs for my dissertation, and I was using Strange Fruit as part of one of my articles. As I was watching a performance of Strange Fruit, I noticed in the corner “Warpaint-Billie Holiday.” I clicked on it. I was immediately hooked. Much like The Kills, I knew with first listen that I had found something sacred. For some reason, Warpaint aren’t a band I want to listen to with other people. It’s a thing I always feel comfortable doing alone. I guess it’s because I know of no one that connects to it like I do. I don’t mean it in a superior way at all. Most that I know that have claimed to listen only dig one song, or just fancy Jenny. Come on now. If you’re going to claim to be a fan- listen to EVERYTHING. I listen to Warpaint and I lose all my senses. I feel like I’m having some outer obdy experience. I’d feel like a massive idiot if I listened to them with someone and announced that to them. They’d probably punch me, and tell me to snap out of it. Honestly, if you listen to Shadows or Lissie’s Heart Murmur and do not feel like something has taken over you- you’re not listening to it properly.
The music is so ethereal and pure. Jenny’s bass playing is enough to make you wish you could play bass like that. Fuck it, the way they all play makes you wish you had musical talent (obviously if you already play an instrument this isn’t the case.) It’s the kind of music that makes you want to explore everything. The kind of music that just makes you want to become a better person, and discover things about yourself that you may have worked hard at pushing away.
I’ll never ever forget the day I interviewed Theresa. I haven’t done much that I am proud of, but I honestly believe that day to be the best day of my life, and one I am so fucking proud of. They say you should never meet people that you class as your heroes. I stick two fingers up to that declaration! I loved the interview because it didn’t feel like I was sat with “someone from a band.” It was like talking to someone you’ve known for years about something you both love- Music. The love they have for each other, and what they do is so beautiful. If you’ve ever seen any videos of them being interviewed, you will see that they are the most hilarious and warm people. They don’t take themselves seriously, and just love what they do. Like The Kills, they haven’t compromised who or what they are in order to get where they are now- they stayed honest to their art, and have made music that fast became timeless.
The euphoric feeling their music gives you is something every music lover searches for and craves in a band. That feeling of safety with hints of “where is this taking me?” It keeps you hooked for a lifetime. I honestly couldn’t imagine my record collection and life without their music. There was a huge void, but the wait for a band like Warpaint was truly worth it.
With only an EP and a full length album, they have fanbase that is just so loyal and passionate towards the band- and towards each other. It’s like the unity they have with each other is shared between the Warpaint fans (not the ones who buy the band shirt from Urban Outfitters and have NEVER fucking listened to the band.)
When I listen to their music, I always feel like I am in some kind of dreamy state. That I’m floating through life, and everything is just passing me by. Even with songs like Majesty- I still get that feeling. A feeling that, as much as I love certain bands- only Warpaint can give me. Each band that I hold so very dear to me does this. Each play a part, and give off certain feelings. Some feelings that, I just cannot explain. It’s almost as if words are not good enough to even try. However, if you listen to the music, you’ll probably understand what I mean.
Although I’ve met them, I’m still waiting to see them live. I just know it again, will be worth the wait and it will be some kind of life changing experience. There’s so much more I could say about Jenny, Emily, Stella and Theresa- but what good would it do? It’s obvious how much their music means to me.
Warpaint are one of the few bands that keep me going with regard to writing. There are so many times where I just think, “Fuck this fucking shit. No one reads this. I’m wasting my time. I’m really shit.” I think that at least once a week, maybe more. But, it’s this mind-set that keeps me going. If I thought I was any good, I wouldn’t bother. Warpaint inspire me to always write with heart, honesty and passion- the day I stop writing like that is the day I just give up forever. They make me feel like it is okay for me to put everything I have into something, even if it may seem so small. It will pay off eventually. I guess, they just give me hope. I also think they are a bit responsible for my huge urge to live in L.A.
Theresa, Emily, Jenny, Stella- thank you. Thank you for the music and for creating a sound that my ears were so in need of hearing. Big love. Olivia xxxx
If I could have any instrumental version of any song by Warpaint- it would be this one. At first I thought…IT’S THE DRUMS! IT’S THE FUCKING DRUMS! Then I listened again…IT’S THE GUITARS!!! And I then listened again…IT’S THE DAMN BASS! JESUS IT IS THE BASS. So, I’ve come to the conclusion that it is everything. This is the song that makes me wish I could sing. Most of their songs make me wish I could play an instrument, but Bees for some reason makes me wish I could sing. I can’t sing. I probably sound like a cat being stood on and violated. However when I have a cold- I think I can sing. It’s best if I don’t even try anymore.
The bass in Bees just makes you want to bounce like a ball around a room, going crazy. The drums make you nod your head in time. The guitars make your limbs move about so freely. Basically, when you listen to this you’ll probably do a bunch of crazy shit and look mental. It’s okay- I’ll join you. It’s all okay.
I adore the way Theresa sings, “Your full moon taunts me.” You know when you hear a line in a song, and it just sticks with you? You have no idea why it sticks with you at all, but you love it. If I could ever fully explain why I loved their music, I’d feel useless. More useless than normal. The fact that every single time I listen to them, and it blows my mind- makes me fall more in love with the music. It’s just got something else. Something I’ve never heard before, and will never hear again.
For me, this song makes me think about being involved with someone who is of a self destructive nature. If you’ve ever had to deal with this, you’ll be able to relate to this song- no problem. It doesn’t even have to be in a romantic nature. We all know someone who is self destructive and Hell bent on ruining themselves, and possibly draining everyone in the process. It’s an uncomfortable thing to go through and face, because you think to yourself, “Do I leave this person behind? Do I help them? What do I do?” If you listen to this song, you should hopefully be comforted by it because maybe, just maybe you’ll find the answers you need. Music does that to you. It can solve anything without you even being aware of it.
“You’ve been at yourself. You woke me up last night. And my eyes lit up like lights, Like a string of pearls, But you still did what you wanted.”
One of the most evocative lines I’ve heard. Not just by Warpaint, but in general. This person is destroying themselves- they know they are, and they are aware that you know. It stirrs you and you wake up- fully alert. But this person just carries on and does what they want. With no regard to or for anything.
“All that time it took you to get yourself straight, was too late.” This person finally starts to get their shit together, but it’s too late. Maybe they are beyond repair or maybe you’ve up and left them. Whatever it is, it’s too late. Sometimes, when something drags out for so long it becomes far too late to do anything about it. You’ve just got to let it go. It’s one of the songs that really interests me because the music is upbeat but the subject matter is potentially, quite dark. I love music that tricks you with upbeat music and chilling lyrics. We’ve all got a dark/curious side, some of us need to embrace it more often.
Warpaint manage to lure you in with no effort at all. You are immediately drawn in because they have this amazing quality. The fact that it is beyond words makes it so much more appealing. It’s like, when you are told “DON’T TOUCH THAT” but you do it anyway because you want to see what happens. What happens when you listen to Warpaint is that, everything just changes. The way you see yourself and others is just changed. Maybe I’m just going overboard with this, but I do believe that their music has changed how I view certain things in life, and people too. Obviously I’m not some unaccepting, axe wielding, homophobic racist arsehole. I don’t mean that. What they’ve done is essentially appreciate the silence in life, the more calming aspects. I’m not someone who likes being surrounded by large groups of people-mainly because I have nothing of worth to say and I hate small talk. I also hate loudness. I love silence. So much can be said in silence. Warpaint’s music made me, I guess, stay true to myself and not change in order to keep people around. I don’t know. I really don’t. What I’m trying to say is not coming out in the way I want it to. Bees for me, is about letting go off all the bad vibes and people around you. This song, for me, makes it easy to let shit go. I’ve seen what clinging onto the past does to people- I see it, and I vow to never be like that. Bees gave me this realisation. Maybe I’ve gone way too deep and should just accept that this is just a brilliant song? Each to their own.
Theresa sings most of this song, but Emily comes in near the end with this:
“Did I reset what I started? Did I resist what I wanted? Do I think you’ve got my number? I’m not the one to continue on.”
Has this person called them out on their draining ways? Are they to blame? Are you to blame? Have you decided to not be the one who carries on surrounded by all of this? It’s just a brilliant breakdown that, even if you’re not going through anything I’ve described (I’m not going through that, I just have a horrific ability to put shit like that into words) it makes you feel like you are- it’s like what Emily is singing is the solution to being near someone self destructive. Sometimes, you’ve just got to walk away from it. It doesn’t make you a bad person.
You know, most people are terrified of bees- for the obvious reasons. But if you watch them (I love watching nature documentaries a hell of a lot) you see how loyal and majestic they are. The sound they make is quite peaceful in a way. The intro to this, and throughout- musically, sounds like a swarm of bees. It’s a lucid trip that once you come back from, you will never be the same again.
Writing about Warpaint makes me happy. It makes me appreciate the band more than I really do. I listen to each song intensely and with great care. I firmly believe that Warpaint are one of those special bands that you have to listen to with headphones to feel every element of the music. You can feel the vibrations of Jenny’s bass going through your ears in a music-gasm based way. Stella’s drumming shakes your eardrums. Emily’s voice sways you. Theresa’s guitar magic makes you feel like nothing can touch you. All of these factors, and more just make it feel like Warpaint are taking you on some mystical and ethereal tour of exploring the soul.
I’ve taken my rings off and put my glasses on to write this. If I put my glasses on, you know I’m about to concentrate and put my all into writing. I do expect to go off on one with this song. Mainly because I love it so much.
The intro to Warpaint sounds like a monster slowly emerging from under the depths of a raging sea. As it comes further up, the sea becomes more and more calm. Calmed by the delicate drumming and tranquil vocals. I have sat with this song laying through headphones so many times; it just does something. The way Emily and Theresa’s vocals both transport from ear to ear as you listen is so powerful. Neither voice is more dominating than the other. Both voices flow so perfectly together, just like water.
If I was going to compare this song to anything in the world, it would be a desert island. It feels so spacious, relaxed and so far removed from anything else I have ever heard. It feels like a different world; a different level of music making altogether. Maybe it is THE signature Warpaint track? I’m not sure. It depends on who you ask. Some may say this, some may say Billie Holiday or Undertow or Elephants. Maybe no one song defines them; each song is so different from the other but still manages to give you the same euphoric feeling.
I’ve said a few times that their music has made me feel like I am floating on a bed of water. Now, as someone who cannot swim- it’s a strange feeling to look for and to enjoy whilst listening to music. Yet it is one of the best feelings a piece of music or a band can give you. If they can make you feel as if you are sailing off into something so pure and sacred- you know you have found a band worth clinging onto with everything you have.
The lyrics on this song are so perfect. You can take whatever meaning you want from this. I find this song to be more difficult than the others to grasp the meaning of, and at times I don’t know if I can even make my own up. I love this song because you just feel as if you are no longer in your own body. You’re having the greatest outer-body experience you can imagine. You do not want it to ever end, so you just have to keep hitting repeat. Over and over again. Over and over again. Until you feel so weightless and untouchable.
I love the way Emily sings: “Even when I was whispering. You hold on, the water was slippery. You listen, the weather was answering. I let go, I wanna get into it.” over Theresa singing : “In like a dull knife. Pulls out all the stops. I fall out like, time running out.” I just find this to be one of the most incredible and captivating parts of this track. The way their voices run through your ears as you taken in the beauty of the vocals and the wonderful imagery in the words, it’s just so utterly hypnotising. A smile always appears upon my face when I listen to this because it just causes you to see so much in your mind. You create so much from one small detail. It is just out of this world.
The last minute of the song. That breakdown. You know the part I mean. Hopefully it does the same to you as it does to me. The last minute makes me feel like my whole body is going into some kind of euphoric state as the drums kick in and they sing, “I’m over here by your way, tight as a knot I want to fade.” I just love that line SO much. I think it is so powerful.For me, it makes me think of being stood very close to someone you find to be the bee’s knees, but they don’t know you’re there. As they don’t know you’re there, you just want to fade out. I’m not sure if that’s what they were getting at. They probably weren’t but hey.
You know what other part of the song I dig? This part :
“You’re tied in a knot, can’t throw you back here. You’ve got the floor, they say. You gotta lock it up. Late into the night you wore off that fever. That fever.”
For the life of me, I just cannot explain to you why I love it so SO much. It’s just so much. You can apply this verse to anything or anyone. But be careful, you don’t want to waste such beauty on idiots.
When I first heard this song, I was in awe of everything. Every single part of this song- even the tiny details, they just became so timeless and instantly classic. It was if i had been waiting for so long for something to make me feel like this. I know I always say it- but Warpaint, I believe are the band I have been waiting to hear all my life. Of course The Jesus And Mary Chain, The Cure and Morrissey will ALWAYS be my favourites. But, when I heard Warpaint for the very first time, I just felt like I did when I heard those three. I felt like the missing part had been filled. I’ve honestly never felt like this over a band before. No band has ever managed to have everything I want. It’s like finding that pair of jeans or boots that just make you feel good, and you no longer have to search for them anymore because you’ve finally got them.
You cannot deny just how perfect the video fits the song. Sometimes a video can strip away all meaning of a song, but with the video to Warpaint all that feeling of being surrounded by water truly comes to life in the video. It’s just so perfect and just so right, you know? The only downside to the video is that the song is edited, and it isn’t the full 6 minutes. But like I said, it fits so well and just feels so right.
With all of this said and nearly the whole song lovingly picked apart, I reckon the lyrics I can most relate to and feel the most connection with has to be:
“Cold and under, I almost forgot to, Face up to what I ought to. Willing and I do give offering to you. Willing and I do give offering to you. Don’t know why I feel so different. Feel just like a different person. Willing and I do give offering to you.”
It’s sang in a strangely haunting yet comforting manner. You know those times where you don’t feel like yourself, that something else has taken over? This part, this song- just sums it up so perfectly.
As you know, I’m not exactly articulate or clever with my words. I don’t try to be, I wouldn’t know how. I know that my biggest problem is that I write from the heart and possibly with too much feeling. I guess it’s because the music I love is like that. If I don’t write this way, then there’s really no point. I suppose that is why I know I will never ever be paid to do this for a living. That being a Music Writer is just some childhood dream that has followed me into adulthood- but it just stays a dream. I’m just another twerp with a Journalism degree who’s trying to be heard (I don’t want to be seen.) But anyway, that isn’t about that right now. This is going to be another post with a lot of feeling. I have no idea why I’m even doing this. Maybe it’s beause I have a awful cold, and I’ve had too much cough medicine. You don’t have to read this. And why should you anyway.
I have no idea how to approach this at all. I never do. You see, I can pour everything I feel about a song or band so easily here. It seems to be the easiest thing in the world. Ask me to tell you how I feel about certain people or whatever- I seem to lose words and the ability to function. I guess it’s why I’m always writing something. Whether it be here, in my poetry notebook or my lyric notebook. I’m always writing something, about something- or someone. I’m not an emotionally challenged person. I just lose the ability to make sense a lot of the time. Nor do I need to be drunk to tell you that I love you, or to ask you for 10p. I’ll start this for real now.
Something happened very close to a year ago. Something which every single person on this planet fears. I’ve never spoken about in great detail with anyone. I didn’t see the need. I didn’t see why I should or why anyone would give a shit. I spoke about it with one friend. In fact, we both cried about it. This is why she’s my best friend and rock. She’s one of the very very few people who changed me for the better. She won’t see this, so there’s no point in me praising her too much 😉 Last year my mother flew over to England to tell me she had Breast Cancer. My reaction was typical. I cried like a fucking baby and clung onto her like an ape. I think my heart and world stopped. I wanted to swear, but I respect my mother too much to use the word FUCK in front of her. Buggery and twat is fine though. It was something I never ever imagined I would hear. It wasn’t something I ever thought about. How I felt from that moment from then on is something I wouldn’t wish upon anyone- even someone I disliked. People say having your heartbroken by a lover is awful. Whatever. That’s nothing. This feeling is a trillion times worse. It makes the romantic kind of heartbreak seem like nothing. However, we’re all different and deal with life’s obstacles in different ways. If you’re anything like me, you do the whole “if I ignore it, it’ll go away but I know it will creep up and bite me in the arse.” Oh, and it did. It did.
I’m not writing this for anyone to think or feel, “You poor thing.” No. I’m doing this because I want to show how music, how a song can pull you through anything. Even something as horrific as this. My mum is one of the lucky ones. She is still here. However, when she tells me she’s in pain or doesn’t feel well- I panic so much internally. All I can do is offer a hug or a cup of tea. I know, I’m useless. When she was undergoing Radiotherapy she still managed to look amazing. I think she’s one of these people who cannot leave the house without make-up. She had her treatment in Sheffield, so I’d go up and see her a few times a week. She didn’t want me to go to the place where she was being treated, which I fully understood. Instead we’d wander around York, Manchester and Sheffield. I’d be lugged around clothes shops and in return, I’d make her go to record shops with me.
My mum is the most strongest and loving human beings I know. I saw how strong she was through all of this, and it just inspired me in ways that I didn’t know how. I never really sat down and spoke about this with her. I didn’t see how me talking about how I felt about her being ill would help. It wouldn’t rid her of cancer. It wouldn’t make this less real. My way was to just act like normal. In front of my friends, I would remain the joker doing my best to make them laugh- doing my best to make sure nobody ever caught onto how awful I felt. For a month or so, I just cried myself to sleep. There were times when leaving the house was seen as the most impossible thing ever. I just wanted to sleep, and when I woke up- I wanted none of this to have ever happened. I always thought, “Fucks sake Olivia. You have NO right to feel so bad. You’re not the one with cancer.” I told myself this all the time until I snapped out of it. I guess I had to trick myself into living again so I wouldn’t be a mess. Thing is, to everyone and anyone- I was totally fine. I was strong and together. I was told a few times that it was okay to break or whatever. But I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t physically go to a friend and just have an outburst. When my mum told me she was sick, I left her for an hour and I went to my best friend’s house. I sat on her bed. And just bawled. She did too. That was the first and last time I did that. I hate crying. It gives me a migraine.
I’m not writing this to make anyone feel sorry for me, or for anyone to praise me or anything. I’m doing this for one reason. I’m writing this to make someone else see that…it’s fucking okay to be a mess you know? Just because you reach rock bottom doesn’t mean you cannot get up again. Use Music as your fucking crutch. I did. Certain songs (which I will link you to in a bit) pulled me through. When I couldn’t sleep or when I didn’t feel too great- these songs gave me something. I’m not exactly the poster-child for bravery. I think the cowardly lion is possibly my spirit animal sometimes. I think I’ve got better. Who knows.
You’ve got to put your faith in something or someone. A place, a person or a sound. Just something. Give yourself to something. I don’t like bothering anyone with anything that gets to me. I’m more likely to just play a song I love to find comfort and answers. And so, that is exactly what I did. The songs I’m going to link you to ALL played an important role in making sure I didn’t become a selfish wanker wallowing in self pity. These songs stopped me from going under and into something shit.
My mum’s okay now. Well, mentally- she will always be tapped in the head. I think that’s genetic. I’ve got no fucking chance of being normal. Not that I’d ever want to be 😉 I remember when she was undergoing treatment she kept saying to me, “I don’t care if I’m on a fucking drip-we ARE going to see Morrissey.” And we did. Twice. I refuse to ever EVER go watch Morrissey live with anyone but my mum. I don’t care who you are- I can only go with her. When we saw him in York we stood for an hour at the end of the gig waiting for him to come out. He came out. As he got into his car, waved and nodded at us. For me, that was perfect. We’ve seen Morrissey 4 times, each time it just makes me feel so alive. However seeing him twice last year meant so much more, for the obvious reasons. It was just perfect.
I think I’ve written far too much. I’ll probably delete this because, when I re-read this I will see how much of an idiot I am. I’m sorry. If you’ve read this- thank you, and I’m sorry you put yourself through this. Anyway, go listen to these songs. They sum up what I’ve been trying to say better than I ever could, especially Kate Bush and Brand New. Running Up That Hill..the chorus just sums up everything I felt and feel. I would give anything to have swapped with my mum so she didn’t have to go through any of this :
I’m ill and I’ve had more cough medicine than I probably should have had. I feel like a less wild version of Lester Bangs right now. None of this will make any sense, but then again- when does it ever? When does anything in life ever make sense? See, I told you.
Exquisite Corpse by Warpaint is one of my favourite EPs ever. I love EPs but at the same time, I guess I think they’re silly. Just put out a full album, stop being difficult. Then again, it’s more records for your collection. There’s no right or wrong view on this really. It just depends on how difficult you want to be. I’m writing this because I need to distract myself from acknowledging the fact that Lana Del Rey’s album has leaked. Obviously I won’t delete it. I’m not that much of a dick. I’ve heard a few songs. Dark Paradise caused an internal breakdown last night. How something, how someone can be that beautiful just baffles me. Anyway. This is about Warpaint, so….
As I was saying, I really love their debut EP. I love everything about it. You name it, I love it. There’s two songs on the album, that when I heard them I thought THEY ARE THE SAME SONGS….but a bit different.
On one hand you’ve got the delicate lullaby feel of Burgundy. Then on the other, you’ve got Krimson which makes you want to sway your body in a careless fashion falling into someone. Both songs are equally as beautiful as each other, if I had to choose a favourite- I would go with Burgundy. I love how sleepy Emily sounds on this. You just become so in awe of her voice. I will never deny my love for Warpaint, ever. They’re just a band that I feel this connection with. A connection that seems to be deeper than any I’ve had with any band, and possibly some people I know. I don’t care if that makes me a bad person at all. Warpaint put me in my own world that’s just free of anything awful and negative. You should try it. Lighten up.
I have no idea how I’m going to do this, so if it all goes wrong-I am slightly sorry.
Burgundy
There is so much that I love about Burgundy. I love the way the bas creeps up on you. I don’t care what you think, Jenny Lee Lindberg is THE best bassist around. I mean, just watch this live version of Burgundy or any of their songs. She is a beast on that bass, the way she sways and just totally digs the music is so inspiring. I’ve said it before, so I’ll say it again- Warpaint make me wish I could play an instrument so badly. I just love the way they make me feel. I think I compare everything in life to how they make me feel. The sheer innocence of this song is so beautiful. If anyone else sung it, they would strip away the whole meaning and essence of this song. My favourite part of the song, is where Emily sings:
“I am a lion, a tigers sleeping under my skin, A tiger sleeping under your skin.”
If I could explain to you what it was about that line that makes me crazy, I would. I just can’t. Maybe it’s the fact that the song is so peaceful, and her comparing herself to something as majestic as a lion just utterly flaws me. It is so beautiful. This is a perfect song to just do nothing to. Hold someone if you feel the need, but personally? Listen to it through headphones. Allow yourself to be transported into another world with the company of Emily, Stella (I know she doesn’t play on these tracks but still), Theresa and Jenny.
Krimson
Okay, so with this one- it’s slightly different. With Burgundy, the bass creeps up on you in a seductive manner. On this song, it feels like you are being chased. It hypnotises you. Pretty much like the bassline from A Forest by The Cure (if you cannot see how that song is one of the best songs of all time, I won’t like you. That’s just how it is. I won’t apologise.) It’s the kind of song that makes you feel like you’re running from someone/something- but you really don’t want to be. You’re being chased, but you slow down because you want them to catch you. Or, you are the one doing the chasing. I just adore this song. You can tell, right?
“And if I ever turned away, Only was I trying to find out the words to say, All my life where I can’t take you on my own.”
Ever really liked someone, but you had to turn away from them because you don’t know what to say? We all know how that feels. The wanting, the longing in this song is so so beautiful. This is a more, I guess, fiesty version of Burgundy- but there are still vulnerable elements to it.
So there, you have it. Both songs are similar (titles referencing shades of red) yet at the same time totally different (the pace and how they are sung.) For me, I think both of these songs sum up why I love Warpaint and the whole style of their music. At times it makes you feel like you are being cradled so gently to the sounds of a lullaby, whereas at other times- you feel as if you just want to shake all your limbs and just lose yourself (and your mind) to the music.
However it makes you feel, keep hold of that feeling. I firmly believe Warpaint are one of the few bands that cannot make you feel anything negative. Sure songs like Baby may make you cry- but it is so beautiful, you see past that. You see that it is a gorgeous dedication. Even their songs about frustration (Beetles) make you feel so alive. I love Warpaint because they gave me back my faith in music. They gave me that feeling that I first got when I heard certain bands. Warpaint for me, are more than just a band. I don’t expect anyone to ever understand it. Or maybe they can. Just think of YOUR favourite band and how they make you feel; then I suppose you can relate.
They are more than just 4 females making music. They are 4 best friends who have this incredible bond, and passion that makes you feel part of what they are creating. It oozes freedom and the desire to express yourself in ways no other could. I know they say perfection doesn’t exist, but I believe it does; in their music.
Any proper Warpaint fan I’ve spoken to (I mean the ones that have heard Exquisite Corpse, and own it) has always said that Beetles is one of their favourite songs by the band. It is one of those songs you have to listen to when you feel a bit pissed off or just so disheartend about something, or someone. If you’re feeling constantly trapped by something, this song will help. It’s why I have it on repeat at the moment.
Theresa takes the lead on the vocals with this song. Her voice lures you in and just keeps you in a trance throughout the duration of the song. You can feel her frustrations and fury in this song, you feel it to. She makes you want to sing every single word with her- as you should.
“I am not prepared, I just gotta gotta get there, Where am I, why can’t I just get it together? Fuck it, where’s my shit? Oh my God I’m mad at it. Oh my God I’m mad at it. Oh my God I’m mad at it. I wanna throw it out the window.”
Sounds lke pretty basic songwriting, right? Sure but the way in which it is presented just makes it so passionate. It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. The rage in which Theresa is feeling in this song, fuck man, you feel it too. Think of the one thing that’s really pissing you off right now. Think of it, play this song- then just let it go. You’ve got to let it go. I should probably listen to what I’m saying to you. Or, I should just keep on listening to Warpaint. That’ll sort it all out.
There’s a live clip of this song that lasts around 15 minutes. The jam at the end of the song just shows, for me, why Warpaint are THE best band around. Even if these so called critics were to attempt to demolish their second album when it comes out- I will still love them. My love for Warpaint is not just for the music. It’s what they stand for. You can tell they love each other and just love music. They really LOVE it, and for me, that’s what makes them easy to connect with. If you can connect with a band like that, you know you’re going to be a fan for life. I sure as Hell know I’m going to be a Warpaint fan for life.
Back to that sense of feeling trapped. This song feels like a huge release, you can just lay there and let all those angst ridden feelings pour out of you. You’re never too old to feel sheer angst. Or, you can listen to it and lose your mind to it. Trash your room, tear shit to shreds. Just go absolutely crazy. Just be totally free.
“Let’s get naked and rip down the wall that makes me crazy. Tell me how. Someone hold my hand and give me lessons ‘cos I wanna, Melt the knot inside of it.”
Staring at four walls constantly is enough to drive the most stable person to the brink of insanity. You just want to rip things up, tear pictures from the wall, drive fast (not too fast, stay safe.) Just basically, this song makes you want to lose your shit. The scattered drumming (I mean that in a good way, don’t worry) makes you flail your limbs about and shake your head until you are about to pass out from making yourself dizzy. It just allows you to be so free and rid yourself of all these horrific bad vibes you have right now.
There’s a come down in the song where Emily’s vocals enter. What I love about Warpaint, from a vocal perspective is how well Theresa and Emily’s voices work with each other. Emily’s voice is a bit more delicate than Theresa’s, and this is truly shown on this song.
Everything about this song just makes you want to feel free and release your mind, body and soul from anything negative you are feeling. I’ve never seen Warpaint live (I’m still waiting) but I know that seeing this live would probably be one of the most electrifying and stunning things my eyes will ever see.
Just watch this. If you want, ignore everything I’ve written- but watch this clip. It is 15 minutes well worth investing in.
Everyone has a song or two (or if you’re like me, about 50) that when they listen to it, there’s always a specific part in the song that just hits them. It wraps itself around your soul, makes your heart beat double and you just lose your mind. This part of the song is the reason why you’re glad to be alive. This part of the song makes you feel alive and untouchable. You play this song, and nothing can get to you. No negative vibes stick to you. You feel like a Superhero or something. This song makes you feel like you can take on the world. That specific breakdown, that one lyric- it hits you right in the gut. I’ve narrowed mine down to 10 songs that, at the moment make me feel like this. However, as soon as I’ve posted this, I will probably want to change my mind. I’ll try stick to it this time, and I’m not sorry for how much I’ll rant. You don’t have to read this. As you were….
Florence + The Machine- What The Water Gave Me. With this song, I’ve got more than one part that sends me into some kind of frenzy. An outer body experience. You know how religous people go on about having some kind of religious experience? That’s what I get from Florence. Especially with the second record. Ceremonials feels like some kind of ritualistic cleansing of the soul. After you listen to it, you feel pure and free again. It just enlightens you in so many ways. If you’ve ever felt trapped and frustrated-play this record. It will blow all of those taunting feelings away from you. At around 2.14 in this song, that’s when it first hits me in the gut. I cannot put it into words, but the build up from there on just sets my soul on fire and throws me into an outer body experience. The chorus at just 3 minutes when it is pretty much acapella and the music kicks in again at around 3.28, when Rob’s guitar just throttles you and makes you want to shake every limb, and move in ways that look like you are having a fit- THAT is the best part of the song. This overwhelming sense of euphoria Florence creates is SO good. It’s a rare thing to find, so when you find it- hold onto it with all you have. I could quite happily write thousands and thousands of words about this song, but just listen to it and let yourself feel free- and be overcome with a wonderful euphoric feeling. I know most of Florence’s songs make you feel this way, but What The Water Gave Me is on a different level completely.
Patti Smith-Frederick. As I’ve mentioned before, I’m not really a fan of lovesongs. However, I do believe that this is the greatest ode to love, devotion and admiration I have ever heard. And will ever hear. The way she sings, “Frederick, name of care” at around 26 seconds in, you can just sense how much she loves him. I can safely say that this is my favourite Patti song. Don’t get me wrong, I adore her politically charged songs; but this one is everything a lovesong should be. It just oozes dedication and pure love. It takes time to find a love like this, Patti was one of the lucky ones to experience this feeling. That feeling that makes you feel this way. The feeling that is blanket of care and a beacon of hope. That’s what love should be, yet most of us take it for granted. Or most of us just haven’t felt it yet. You’ll know when you feel it though, because you will feel exactly how Patti feels in this song. It’s a feeling that cannot be rushed, but to feel it like this-well it is utterly sacred. Cherish it my loves, because some may try to take it from you. But don’t worry if you haven’t found it yet. Don’t let society force you to fall for just anyone. You’ll meet your very own Frederick or Patti one day, for sure.
Foals-Spanish Sahara. This was probably one of my favourite songs from 2010. The stunning build up in this song just made you feel like you were stood right in front of Yannis as he poured his heart out into this song. You felt each fragment of fury and every haunting aspect of the horrors that can consume you- when you are least expecting it. You felt comforted by this song, because you felt like you could leave your horrors and nightmares behind and just carry on. I’ve never seen Foals live, but to see this song live, I’d imagine it’d be one of those life changing moments that cause something in your brain to click. It just makes you think, “Fuck it. I can do this.” A song like this is one that most spend their career trying to write. Driving themselves insane just to touch on something even slightly as moving as this. This song, I’ve used many times to just make sense of everything. You know what it’s like. You have a shit day and feel like there is really no point. Music is my only constant. It’s the first thing I go to when it all gets too much, and Spanish Sahara is one of the songs that gives me, strength I suppose. Their song, After Glow also does the same.
Dum Dum Girls-Coming Down. I remember falling in love with Dum Dum Girls a long time ago. Their first album had this sound that I adore. A surfer pop/lo-fi feel mixed with a Wall Of Sound vibe. A lot of bands I listen to have this sound. I personally thing it is stunning. Mixing a garage rock sound with what Phil Spector created just shows how timeless certain genres immediatley became decades and decades ago. I didn’t think I could love their second record as much as I loved their first. So, I sat down and listened to it. I listened to it with no distractions. I was in awe of everything I was hearing. Dee Dee Penny is evidently one of the best front-women around right now. There’s a part in Coming Down that anyone who’s listened to it, will know EXACTLY which part I am going to mention. The song is quite sad and my lord, it really tugs at your heartstrings. The song lasts 6 and a half minutes, and is 6 and a half minutes of utter beauty and brilliance. However, at 3 and a half minutes- Dee Dee hits this note that just makes you freeze. You shut your eyes and nod in agreement. She’s letting it all out for you. You cannot let it out yourself, she is doing it for you on this song. Everything you feel that’s been building up for so long just comes out in this song. That note she clings onto and lets out- you cling onto it with her. It’s like your safety net. I’m not ashamed to admit that this song is my safety net, my crutch. When I listen to it, every sense is heightend and things do not seem that bad anymore. I’ve cried to this song, and I’ve been wonderfully joyful whilst listening to this song. It’s just everything to me, and honestly- it made 2011 a lot easier to drag myself through.
The Horrors-Sea Within A Sea. I would’ve picked She Is The New Thing, but you really cannot deny that this song is a stroke of genius. A masterpiece- much like the whole album if I’m honest. I know exactly where I was when I first heard Sea Within A Sea. If memory serves me correctly, the video to this was launched on The Horrors website at 8pm one evening in 2009. I remember sitting in front of my computer hitting refresh on their site waiting for this to appear. There was a countdown to something. Most of us knew it would be something to do with new material. 8pm came, and the shadows of The Horrors was there. You knew what was about to happen. The song is just under 8 minutes long, and just reinforces my belief that songs that last over 5 minutes are the best. Easily. The euphoric part comes in just after 3.40. The synths really really kick in, and Faris’ voice captivates you more than it ever has done before. The build up as he sings, “So you may think the path we share, is one of danger and of fear….” is so amazing, it creates this wonderful tension between you and the song. You wonder what will happen next. Will there be another build up? Will it smack you in the face? YES. Yes to all of it. If you’re one of those who are only just getting into The Horrors (you’re late. You’ve really missed out, seriously. Go listen to Strange House. PLEASE) then hopefully you will see just how amazing The Horrors have always been. They’re a band that no one can predict their next sound. That is why I adore them, with all I have. The Horrors have captured every sound I love, and created their own- but changing on very record.
Warpaint-Lissie’s Heart Murmur. Every song by Warpaint makes me feel content and glad to be alive, so picking just one song was enough to cause a slight headache…and having to listen to Exquisite Corpse and The Fool a few times before I picked a song to stick with. Sure I could’ve chosen Stars, Billie Holiday or Warpaint. But, I had to go with Lissie’s Heart Murmur because let’s face it, it’s my favourite Warpaint song. For me, listening to Warpaint is a sacred experience. The intro to this song, the piano sounds like tears falling free from your face. At the end of crying, that feeling you get when you realise it’s all going to be okay- that’s what this song feels like to me. It feels like the aftermath of crying your heart out. I can’t pick out a set euphoric moment in this song, the whole song is just a beautiful experience. It is so perfect, to the very core. I could quite happily play this song, and never listen to anything else. Emily’s voice is so haunting and mesmirising on this song, more than on any other song. So many times I have just laid on my bed and played this song over and over through headphones. It’s one of those songs where you have to listen to, on your own- with no interruptions. I don’t think I’m doing this song any justice, so I’ll just link you to it. Hopefully you’ll understand why I love it so much.
The Cure- A Forest. Like my view on the song above, I can’t possibly pick a moment in this song that makes me feel so happy. I love The Cure, and Seventeen Seconds is my favourite album by the band. I remember hearing it and feeling like I was in some kind of trance. I felt like I was in a permenant dreaming state, I didn’t want to wake from it. I still feel like that when I listen to the album now. They created a sound on that record that has evidently influenced so many, Warpaint being one of them. Personally, Jenny’s bass playing always reminds me of The Cure. That wonderful, floating feeling you get. You feel like you are drifting off into someone so pure and perfect. A Forest is probably my favourite song by The Cure. I love the slight distortion on Robert Smith’s voice in this song, you really have to listen hard to hear what he is saying as the music creeps in and takes over. It is a chilling and eerie song, much like the whole album really. Some say this song and album define The Cure. But let’s be honest not, you can’t ever define a band like The Cure. I feel that, no matter what I say about this song it really won’t show it in the light I want it to. But any genuine fan of The Cure (as in someone who doesn’t just like Friday I’m In Love) can see just how inspirational they ae. Not to mention ahead of their time with all their records. They were the blueprint of this sound. Utter perfection.
The Kills-Superstition. Attempting to pick one song by favourite duo EVER was a chore. I couldn’t do it. I left it for ages, wrote down some idead. Scribbled them out, wrote new ones. A mini riot occured inside trying to figure out which song I could use. I wanted to use The Last Goodbye, then Pots And Pans. Then I wanted No Wow. Then I wanted Cat Claw. I settled finally with Superstition. When Alison lets out that scream in Superstition, it is just so electrifying. You feel like she is right there, in your face letting out this gnarly growl that actually, sounds so heavenly. I could pick any song by The Kills. With all their b-sides and four records, it was difficult. I could’ve gone with their cover of Pale Blue Eyes; but that song is too precious for me to even touch on. Their version of it gets at your heart, well and truly gets at you. Superstition shows The Kills at their rawest and most brutal. Jamie absolutley slays the guitar here, and Alison’s voice..well, what can one say. They both have a chemistry that sucks you in, and once you’ve been captivated by it-nothing else seems relevant. You’ll base all relationships and friendships on their connection. If you don’t feel how they do about each other towards a person; then it isn’t meant to be. The Kills are rage, passion, angst, fury, frustration and raw. All brutal things done in such a beautiful way. They’re more than just a band to me, they’re life.
Scott McKenzie-San Francisco. For sentimental value, I’ve chosen to put this song here. It’s a pretty short song I guess, and the whole song just makes me close my eyes- thinking I’m wandering around San Francisco, taking everything in. Are the people still gentle there? Do they have flowers in their hair? Let’s hope they do. This song reminds me of my childhood, it just makes me happy. It makes me want to live in San Francisco. Then again, it doesn’t take much for me to want to leave where I currently live! This song makes me think of summer, even if it is like hurricane season outside. I know I could’ve picked other songs instead of this one. But, a song doesn’t have to have a grand build up in order for it to give you a sense of euphoria. That comes from within, what you take from the song is a bonus.
Morrissey-Speedway. My final choice is of course, Morrissey. Is this my favourite Moz song? Oh of course. It just defines my life and how certain people are. You know, the ones who are petty towards you and what you do- but they’re just projecting. It’s best to ignore such fuckbags isn’t it. Oh, and ignore I do. The lyrics are so beautiful. What I’ve always loved about Moz is that he has NEVER had to use grand words in order to make you connect with him. He doesn’t have to polish his words in order for you to relate to him. When he sings the word “Forever” at around 2.48, the song pauses, then a few seconds kater kicks back in. The build up is incredible. You will only appreciate this if Moz is your saviour. Seeing this live last year just completed me. It came at a time when it was much needed. You know the deal. Shit happens, people act like wankers, you don’t know what to do- you then find yourself in a song. This song has always played an important role in my life, but moreso last year. However, that is in the past. This is just Moz at his finest, I adore the line, “In my own strange way, I’ve always been true to you.” I guess we all know of a few who we can attach that lyric to. But, they don’t deserve to have such a song related to them now do they.
Exquisite Corpse is one of my favourite EPs ever; songs like Billie Holiday and Stars sound like a lullaby that could send anyone off to sleep- even if you battle every night to get to sleep. Then you have songs like Elephants and Beetles that just ooze frustration. The complete opposite of Stars.
One of my favourite Warpaint songs has to be Stars. I adore how peaceful the song is. I love how it can calm the most uptight and angst ridden person. It just has this simple soothing sound that hits you right in the heart. The vocals are so pure and perfect. The way in which they are sung just makes you drift off into a calm state. It just cradles you in such a gentle but euphoric way.
The amount of times I have played this song when I was having issues with trying to sleep is ridiculous. Everything about Stars is just so wonderful and utterly perfect. It feels like a ritualistc chant but with no aggressive tones at all. It is so peaceful and calming. The music makes you either sway your body in such a tame way; or it makes you want to go outside in the night, and gaze up at the night sky. Letting yourself be free. This song oozes so much freedom. When you listen to it, it is like you are hearing a secret from someone. You don’t want to share this with anyone because they will not hear it in the way you do. They will not see how beautiful it is; they will miss the point of the song. They’ll just nod and say, “Yes, this is good.” They won’t hear how comforting but haunting the guitar is. They won’t hear how meek the bass is, but how it also creeps up on you. They won’t hear how relaxing the drums are. They just won’t get it. This is why this song needs to be heard the headphones, and headphones alone. Blasting it out of speakers at a stupidly high level will strip away the beauty and the true essence of this song.
Everyone has that one song they listen to every day, by themselves. With no distractions at all. This is my song. This, and Lissie’s Heart Murmur both conjur up the same feelings and imagery for me. Both have this out of body feeling to me. When I listen to it- I don’t feel like I am where I am. I don’t feel like I am in this world when I listen to it. For me, personally, if a band or singer can make me feel like that- then they are one of the greats. They well and truly are.
When they sing, “Oh wonderful one. Why are you like that?” at the start, and repeat this in some kind of ritualistic manner- it makes you feel as if they are beckoning you to join them. To just leave it all behind, and give yourself over to them. This song justifies totally as to why some of the best songs ever created last well over 5 minutes. The build up in this song isn’t as grand in songs such as Warpaint or Composure. It takes you in so delicately and you just let it happen to you. You let yourself fall into this atmospheric, beautiful piece of music. You immerse yourself completely and utterly in everything this song is. The different layers to this song hit you every single time you listen to it. I’ve played this song so many times; and I notice more things when I am half asleep with their pure voices and music echoing in my ears. I notice more clearly how certain lines are sung or certain key changes. It’s just so perfect; it is beyond all human understanding and description.
The repetition in the lyrics makes you feel as if you are part of this euphoric chant. You believe that if you sing along with them, you will be part of this world that they make you escape into with every listen.
I have discovered that when listening to Stars; you cannot get the full effect of the song if you listen to it when it is light outisde. You must be surrounded by complete darkness in order to really experience this song to its full capabilities. Obviously it is a beautiful song, and you should listen to Warpaint all the time- but this, to me, is one of their most special songs. It is is entirely sacred. Maybe it comes from the actual video of the song- the video just portrays everything this song makes you feel. I absolutley adore the ending of the song, especially when they sing :
“And in the end they ask you, for your reply. Don’t you tell them what you found out .”
To me, this just points out exactly why this song feels like a mystical and sacred secret that you daren’t share with anyone. It’s yours, and yours alone.
Beat In My Bones. 