Johannes has significantly contributed to albums by Chris Cornell, Queens of the Stone Age, Eagles of Death Metal, Desert Sessions and the Mark Lanegan Band as well as mixing, recording and producing a number of other records. He also frequently tours with other bands and artists, most notably the hard rock band Queens of the Stone Age throughout 2005 and 2006 (Natasha Shneider also joined him on this tour).
Most recently Johannes recorded new material with Brody Dalle and Eleven bandmate Jack Irons as part of Spinnerette. They released their first EP 'Ghetto Love' in 2008, though Johannes isn't joining them on tour. Johannes is releasing his first solo record, Spark, on Oct. 5th, 2010. He continues to perform live solo, and tour with Them Crooked Vultures.
Hum
Alain Johannes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Our faded letters holding sway
Through the leaves light trickling
I lay down grass caressing me
Over here I sense a humming
Under there a hum
Eternal hum
A dead world turning inside out
And in my hope a quickening
Invisibly your saving hand
As I survive this slipping land
Over there I sense a humming
Under here a hum
Eternal hum
In these lyrics, Alain Johannes takes us on a reflective journey into nature, where he visits an old oak tree and finds solace in the sentimental value of faded letters. As he walks, he becomes attuned to the subtle sounds of the world around him. The leaves gently rustling carry a sense of peace and serenity, creating a soothing atmosphere. This imagery implies a connection between the singer and nature, suggesting that they find comfort and support in the natural world.
The repeated mention of a humming sound throughout the lyrics adds another layer of meaning. The hum represents a continuous and eternal presence, almost like a comforting background noise that remains constant. It can be interpreted as a metaphor for the underlying rhythm of life, symbolizing the connection between different beings and elements in the universe. This hum serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of everything, giving the singer a sense of belonging and purpose.
Amidst this contemplation of nature and the eternal hum, the lyrics also allude to a feeling of hope and renewal. The mention of a "quickening" in the singer's hope suggests a positive change or growth. Throughout the struggles of life, the singer finds solace in an invisible saving hand, which could symbolize a divine presence or a source of guidance. It represents a source of strength that helps them navigate the challenges of a world that feels like it's slipping away.
Overall, these lyrics explore the interconnectedness of nature and our place within it. Alain Johannes finds solace and inspiration in the natural world, utilizing vivid imagery to convey a sense of peace and reflection. The hum serves as a symbol of continuity, representing the universal rhythm that connects all living beings. In the midst of uncertainty, the lyrics also touch on themes of hope and renewal, suggesting that even in difficult times, there is still comfort and a guiding hand to help us navigate through.
Line by Line Meaning
Walked to the old oak today
I took a stroll to the ancient oak tree today
Our faded letters holding sway
The letters we wrote in the past still have a powerful influence
Through the leaves light trickling
The sunlight gently passing through the leaves
I lay down grass caressing me
I laid on the grass and felt its comforting touch
Over here I sense a humming
In this place, I can perceive a subtle humming sound
Under there a hum
Beneath that spot, there is a constant hum
Eternal hum
A never-ending hum
A dead world turning inside out
A lifeless world undergoing a transformative process
And in my hope a quickening
And within my hope, there is a sense of acceleration
Invisibly your saving hand
Your hand that saves me, though unseen
As I survive this slipping land
While I manage to stay afloat in this unstable environment
Over there I sense a humming
Over there, I can sense a gentle humming sound
Under here a hum
Below this place, there is a continuous hum
Eternal hum
A perpetual hum
Lyrics © MCDMAN MUSIC
Written by: Alain Johannes
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Aroa Iradier
Preciosa canción, Alain es un artista que deberia estar más reconocido.
Adam Tocci
Everything you touch is gold, Alain — keep em coming. Love the Ipecac connection.
bularecordz
Just got my CD of "Hum" album and listening on my headphone set. This album is one of the most beautiful piece of art ever produced. I mean the production of the album is just amazing. The performace is genuine, not overrecorded to the total perfection but to the point where you hear a true human being and his soul singing. God damn, thank you world for giving us Alain Johannes! It's always pleasure to hear this man. "You know you did a good job when there's someone out there who experienced a true emotion while being exposed to your art". I actually might have made up this quote.
Daniel Yáñez
Something tells me this song may be the cure for coronavirus. Nothing short of supernatural. This is exactly what my ears and soul needs now.
Jeremy Winnett
See Nick Drake:Pink Moon LP
MIGeoMous
<3 thats a beautiful point of you! His music is healing! Stay safe
-onum-
Que se puede decir..este tipo no tiene pierde.fabuloso👌
Father Burn
It's just so good! Cool to see Alain on Ipecac, they know their stuff.
fototripper
Oh man. Such lush melodies. I have this on repeat in the studio.
Hugo harrison
Cuando alguien es capaz de componer e interpretar asi de maravilloso demuestra una sensibilidad a tida prueba, años de circo y toneladas de experiencias humanas y musicales. Mil gracias Alain!!!