Unpack the Meaning Behind Animal Collective's Lion In A Coma Lyrics: A Fascinating Dive into One of Indie Rock's Most Enigmatic Songs
Discover the Meaning Behind Animal Collective's Lion In A Coma Lyrics
If you're a fan of indie rock, you've probably heard of Animal Collective. Known for their experimental sound and poetic lyrics, the band has released multiple albums that have garnered critical acclaim. One song that stands out amongst their discography is Lion In A Coma, a track from their 2009 album Merriweather Post Pavilion. This article will take a closer look at the lyrics and try to unravel their meaning.
What is Lion In A Coma About?
One thing that can be said about Animal Collective's music is that it's often open to interpretation. The same goes for Lion In A Coma. Some might argue that the lyrics are purely nonsensical, while others might argue that they have a deeper meaning. At its core, the song seems to be about feeling trapped or stuck in a situation.
The opening verse sets the tone:
If I could just leave my body for a night Then things wouldn't be so hard And I could return to my body in the morning When things are really bad
This can be interpreted as a desire to escape reality, even if it's just for a short while. The idea of returning to one's body in the morning highlights the temporary nature of this desire.
Breaking Down the Lyrics
As the song progresses, we're introduced to various images and scenarios:
I was happy in the haze of a drunken hour But heaven knows I'm miserable now I was looking for a job and then I found a job And heaven knows I'm miserable now
Here, we see a contrast between happiness and misery, with the narrator feeling trapped in their current situation. The reference to the famous Smiths track Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now adds a layer of irony.
Later on, we hear the lines:
With a lion in a coma I decide to lay down With a lion in a coma I won't disturb her healing
The titular lion could be interpreted as a symbol for something that's powerful but currently incapacitated, or possibly a representation of the narrator themselves. Either way, the decision not to disturb its healing could represent a willingness to let things be, even if it means staying stuck.
The Importance of the Music
While the lyrics of Lion In A Coma are intriguing on their own, they also work in tandem with the music. Animal Collective is known for their use of unconventional sounds and rhythms, and Lion In A Coma is no exception. The beat is hypnotic, almost like a lullaby, which contrasts with the lyrics' darker themes. There's also a sense of urgency in the way the various instruments come together, creating a feeling of restlessness and unease.
The Significance of the Song in Animal Collective's Discography
In terms of Animal Collective's overall sound, Lion In A Coma is a good representation of their unique approach to music-making. It features their signature use of unconventional sounds and harmonies, while also showcasing their ability to craft meaningful lyrics. It's been noted by critics as one of the standout tracks from Merriweather Post Pavilion, which many consider to be the band's most accessible album.
Conclusion
Lion In A Coma is a song that invites interpretation. While it might not be immediately clear what the lyrics are describing, there's a sense of longing and frustration that is relatable. The music complements the lyrics, creating an atmosphere that is both dreamy and intense. Overall, it's a track that showcases Animal Collective's unique sound and poetic sensibility, and one that deserves to be listened to with an open mind.
"Animal Collective Lion In A Coma Lyrics" ~ bbaz
The Beauty of Animal Collective's Lion In A Coma Lyrics
Animal Collective's Lion In A Coma is a mystical and enigmatic experience that carries with it a wide range of emotions. The lyrics of this song are captivating, inspiring, and poetic, making it one of the most popular tracks of the band.
The Dreamy Verse
The verse in Lion In A Coma creates an atmosphere of dreaminess and sets the tone for the song. The lyrics paint a picture of a surreal setting where the narrator is exploring the depths of his subconscious. There is a lot of talk about tunnels, caves, and darkness, but there is also an element of joy and playfulness as the narrator talks about sliding down hills and imagining fiery skies.
The use of metaphor is truly stunning here; Lion In A Coma is a reference to the idea that some animals go into a state of temporary paralysis to avoid danger. The narrator sees himself in a similar light, unable to move and oblivious to the things happening around him.
The Heartfelt Chorus
The chorus of Lion In A Coma is where the heart of the song lies. It conveys a sense of longing and a desire to break free from the limitations that are holding the narrator back. The line, It's you I want to get right, is particularly powerful, as it shows that the narrator is searching for a sense of direction and clarity.
The lyrics are imbued with this feeling that time is slipping away, and there is a need to find something more meaningful before it's too late. This is evident in the lines, Days are slipping by so fast / And nights no better, no better. It perfectly captures the sense of urgency that the narrator feels.
The Mystical Bridge
The bridge in Lion In A Coma takes the listener on a mystical journey where the narrator is communing with nature. The lyrics describe a forest where the trees are alive and sentient, and the narrator is communicating with them. It creates a mood of transcendence and wonder.
The line, The night sky bright with star glow, is particularly beautiful and creates an image of something magical and otherworldly. The simplicity of the lyrics combined with the dreamy instrumentation creates a sense of awe and wonder.
The Bittersweet Outro
The outro of Lion In A Coma brings the song to a bittersweet conclusion. The lyrics shift to a more reflective mode where the narrator is looking back on his experiences. There is a sense of regret and nostalgia as the narrator reflects on the choices he has made.
The lines, All the things I've done / Will catch up in the end, are especially poignant and create a sense of inevitability. The narrator knows that he cannot escape the consequences of his actions and must face them head-on.
Conclusion
Animal Collective has created something truly special with Lion In A Coma. The lyrics are filled with beauty, wonder and are deeply poetic. The song effortlessly transports the listener to another world and takes them on a journey of self-discovery and reflection. Whether you're a long-time fan or hearing this song for the first time, Lion In A Coma is sure to leave an indelible impression on you.
Animal Collective Lion In A Coma Lyrics: A Comparison with other Animal Collective Songs
Introduction
Animal Collective is an experimental pop group that has been making music for over two decades. During this time, they have released dozens of albums and singles that showcase their unique sound. One of their most well-known songs is Lion in a Coma from their album Merriweather Post Pavilion. In this blog post, we will compare the lyrics and music of this song to some of their other popular tracks.The Sound of Lion in a Coma
Lion in a Coma begins with a pulsating beat that gradually builds into a frenzy of percussion and synths. The song has a psychedelic rock sound that is characteristic of Animal Collective's style. The use of unconventional instruments like bells, chimes, and xylophones gives the song a dreamlike quality. The vocals are delivered in a hushed tone that is occasionally punctuated by bursts of energy. Overall, the sound of Lion in a Coma is trippy and intense, but also melodic.The Lyrics of Lion in a Coma
The lyrics of Lion in a Coma are abstract and poetic. They describe the experiences of a lion who is in a coma, but they also touch on themes like redemption and rebirth. Some of the standout lines include: I'm just a little lion in a coma / I'll recover soon in Coloma and Fix up what I tore down / Bring flowers to the part of town where I hurt you / We can patch it over now. These lyrics are open to interpretation, but they convey a sense of hope and renewal.Lion in a Coma vs. My Girls
Another popular Animal Collective song is My Girls from their album Merriweather Post Pavilion. This song has a more upbeat and poppy sound than Lion in a Coma. The lyrics are also more straightforward, as they describe the joys of family life and finding happiness in the simple things. The famous chorus of My Girls (I just want four walls and adobe slabs for my girls) is catchy and anthemic. While My Girls may be more accessible than Lion in a Coma, they are both excellent examples of Animal Collective's signature style.Lion in a Coma vs. Fireworks
Fireworks is another standout track from Merriweather Post Pavilion that showcases Animal Collective's ability to create complex yet catchy melodies. The song has a slower tempo than Lion in a Coma, and the vocals are more prominent. The lyrics describe the feeling of being overwhelmed by emotions and the beauty of the natural world. Some of the memorable lines include: Who could ever live that way? / And love is just a tool to remind us who we are / And that we're not alone when we're walking in the dark. Fireworks is a beautiful song that captures the essence of Animal Collective's music.Conclusion
Animal Collective's Lion in a Coma is a stunning example of their unique sound and poetic lyrics. The song is dreamy and intense, with abstract lyrics that convey a sense of hope and renewal. Comparing this song to other Animal Collective tracks like My Girls and Fireworks highlights the diversity of their musical style. Whether you prefer the poppier sound of My Girls or the cinematic beauty of Fireworks, there is something for everyone in Animal Collective's rich discography.Exploring the Deeper Meanings of Animal Collective's Lion in a Coma Lyrics
The Enigma of Animal Collective's Music
Animal Collective is one of the most innovative musical groups of our time. The band's music is known for its experimental style and the obscure lyricism that weaves through it. The lyrics of Animal Collective's songs are often mystifying, captivating, and sometimes bewildering. One such song is Lion in a Coma, which has been the subject of much speculation among music lovers.About Lion in a Coma
Released as a part of their 2009 album Merriweather Post Pavilion, the song Lion in a Coma had made quite an impact. The track starts with a cheery melody before transitioning to more electronic beats that set the foundation for tribal rhythms. The essences of this lysergic tribe inhabit the peculiar four-and-a-half-minute ritualisim of the song. The lyrics are surreal and go from abstract imagery to a narrative filled with harsh realities. However, the ambiguity of the words makes a definitive interpretation of the song practically impossible.The Hidden Meanings of Lion in a Coma
Despite the opaqueness, some common themes can be noticed throughout the lyrics. For example, there is a deep animal presence and elements of shamanistic rituals that reveal a frequent fixation that the song's creators possess about the cosmos' mysteries.In the first few lines, the lyrics speak of A lion in her sleep, slowly sways her heavy head, opens up her mouth and roars so high and teeth bared. However, many listeners reason that this is a metaphorical reference to the narrator, perhaps hinting at a spiritual awakening that causes a shift in consciousness.This awakening is juxtaposed with darker imagery. The lines We face the wind and we faced all the trash that slowed us down. Although our guts are twisted, we know that it won't be long offer a counter-narrative to what seems like a spiritual transcendence.The lyrics in this song seem to borrow from many different concepts and themes. Some of these include animism, Shintoism, Postmodernism, and occultism. However, the result is an enigmatic and psychedelic masterpiece.The Role of Imagery
The unusual imagery in the song can be a little confusing at first, but it invites you on a journey to explore Animal Collective's vision. There is an emphasis on nature and animals; in addition to lion-centered images, images of she-bears, rabbits, and others are also included. These esoteric elements create a particular shade of beauty that attempts to reflect the wild within oneself.Several layers of meaning are evident in the song's opening lines: A lion in her sleep, slowly sways her heavy head, opens up her mouth and roars so high and teeth bared. One interpretation could be about sleep disorders or insomnia. Another might argue that it indicates the roaring of a spirit animal that inspires courage and strength.Worship Or Critique?
Despite many interpretations about Lion in a Coma, one thing is clear - the song is highly imaginative in its approach to create a unique atmosphere. One aspect applauded in the song is the band's effervescent take on spirituality and mysticism. The feeling of awe that stems out of lyrics like behind their masks there ain't nothin' free, is unparalleled.However, some critics suggest that the song may be Alvey idolizing or criticizing the intentional subjugation of the masses for their own ends; as hinted by lines like No one else can see the patterns, only you, you're the only one.The Importance of Engineering
Another aspect of Lion in a Coma that enhances the listening experience is Geologist's production and mixing. This blending of sounds and harmonies gives the song an almost ethereal quality. The subtle nuances and layering of the vocal tracks over exotic tribal rhythms make this track sound like it emerged from another planet.Conclusion
As with all music, different people will have different interpretations of Lion in a Coma. Some might find it an adventurous trip to unknown territory, while others might find it too abstract and disconnected.However, what cannot be denied is that this Animal Collective song is a bold step into a world where conventional song structures are thrown out the window. Lion in a Coma is a remarkable piece of art that rewards its listeners with moments of creative and nearly transcendent beauty.Exploring the Hidden Meanings in Animal Collective's Lion In A Coma Lyrics
If you're a fan of experimental music, then you must have heard of Animal Collective - an American band that has pushed the boundaries of music since their formation in 2003. One of their hit songs, Lion In A Coma, is a sonic masterpiece with cryptic and mystical lyrics that left many fans stunned.
This article delves into the hidden meanings behind this song, exploring the symbolism, metaphors, and mysticism embedded in its lyrics. So, fasten your seatbelts, we're about to embark on a surreal journey of understanding.
Firstly, let's examine the lyrics:
Oh my god, what I thought was me,
Wasn't at all, open/ Then I read a book or maybe two/ This is where I found a new type of me.
As we can see here, the song starts with the singer realizing that his perception of himself was wrong. The person he thought he was turned out to be something else entirely. This realization led him to explore new avenues, perhaps reading books on spirituality or philosophy, which helped him discover a new sense of self.
The next verse goes like this:
In a calm lion's roar, I heard a whisper of a sound
Is it something I can hear? Something real and true/ And no one's gonna get hurt this time around.
Here, the singer refers to a calm lion's roar, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for someone who is strong but doesn't need to prove it to anyone. He then hears a whisper, which he questions whether it's real or not. The last part of the verse no one's gonna get hurt this time around could be a reference to past mistakes that he is not going to repeat.
Animal Collective then drops the chorus, which goes like this:
Take one breath,
And then we'll dive into the dead of night,
I'll go under your feet,
We're scratching at the bottom of the sky.
The chorus is cryptic and open to interpretation. It could signify a willingness to take risks and explore unknown territories with someone you trust, or it could reflect the idea of surrendering oneself to the universe or a higher power.
The next verse delves into metaphors related to nature, which are common in Animal Collective's music:
Sound machines will grind to a halt,
And then our ears won't make a sound,
The waves and engines will rust in salt,
Come on, where do you want to go?
Here, the singer refers to sound machines that stop working, which could be interpreted as technology failing, leaving humans to face the raw reality of nature. The waves and engines rusting in salt is also a reference to nature as saltwater can corrode metals and other materials. The question, Come on, where do you want to go? could be seen as a call to action, where the singer is urging us to find ourselves in nature.
The chorus then repeats before moving onto the next verse:
This isn't what it seems,
If you go away from me,
I'll be right behind though.
You're cannibalistic, you're cannibal,
Eating me away ...
The singer here highlights the duality of life - things are not always what they seem. He compares the object of his affection to a cannibal, eating him away. This could signify a toxic relationship where the other person is slowly destroying him.
The next verse is perhaps the most cryptic of all:
Look around at home who doesn't feel love?
Face to face with smiles and aboves,
But I've been waitin' on your call all night,
You said it's late, is everything alright?
The opening line is a rhetorical question, asking us to look around and see who doesn't feel love - highlighting the universality of love and its importance. The rest of the verse talks about waiting for someone's call, which never comes. The reference to smiles and aboves may be code language but leave the listeners imagination wide open to interpretation.
The song ends with the chorus again, leaving the meaning up to the listeners' perception.
To conclude, Lion In A Coma is a surreal sonic journey that takes the listener through a range of mystical experiences. The song represents the beauty of Animal Collective's music, which allows us to explore our consciousness and spirituality through their experimental approach to sound.
Thank you for reading this article. If you haven't already, listen to Lion In A Coma, and let us know what you think about the meaning behind its lyrics in the comments section below.
Until next time, keep exploring the hidden meanings in music.
People Also Ask About Animal Collective Lion In A Coma Lyrics
What is the meaning behind Lion In A Coma?
Lion In A Coma is an abstract and surrealistic song that contains different meanings depending on the perspective of each listener. Some suggest that the lyrics explore themes of isolation, anxiety, and inner turmoil experienced by a person trying to crawl out of a depressive state.
What genre is Lion In A Coma?
Animal Collective is known for their unique blend of experimental pop and avant-garde sounds. Lion In A Coma falls under the psychedelic and indie rock genres.
What inspired the writing of Lion In A Coma?
The inspiration behind Lion In A Coma came from a dream that the lead vocalist and songwriter, Avey Tare, had about a lion in a zoo. The lion was noticably unhappy and Tare felt like he could relate to it.
What are some distinct lyrics from Lion In A Coma?
- I'm a lion in a coma, I'm a lion in a coma
- Open up your throat please, vacate my mind
- Faking all the love that you found, faking all the love
What is the overall feel of Lion In A Coma?
The song has a dreamlike quality to it with its layered sounds and atmospheric beats. The lyrics depict vivid and surreal images that slowly unfold to reveal their deeper meaning, making it a hypnotizing and immersive experience for the listener.