The band was started by Adam Baker in 2003 as a side project of the still active sister band Sunfold, formerly known as Sedona and headed up by lead guitarist Kenny Florence. Ace Fu Records signed Annuals in the fall of 2005 and then released their debut LP Be He Me on October 17, 2006. Annuals' sophomore album, Such Fun, was released on October 7, 2008.
They are frequently compared to the Arcade Fire, Animal Collective, and Broken Social Scene and are known for their intense live shows.
Ida My
Annuals Lyrics
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When my baby is born there will surely be a lasting shore
Listless birds perch in soft, green herds, tickling the wind
With fall they will sleep with parched, swollen throats, and I've done nothing
But, with spring I will propagate their thirst to blinding eyes
Blinding eyes
Planting seeds can't be the only way, the only way
Planting seeds can't be the only way out
Planting seeds can't be the only way to find a simple day, a simpler way
The lyrics to "Ida My" by Annuals speak to themes of creation, growth, and the never-ending cycle of life. The opening lines suggest that material possessions and written words become meaningless when compared to the birth of a child, which promises a permanence that transcends worldly concerns. The second stanza describes the cycle of life in nature, as birds migrate and hibernate with the changing seasons. Despite the singer's acknowledgment that they have done nothing to aid the birds, they express a desire to help in the future by "propagat[ing] their thirst to blinding eyes." This suggests a yearning for a deeper understanding of the natural world, and an acknowledgement of the interconnectedness of all life.
The chorus of the song rejects the idea that planting seeds - a metaphor for creation and growth - is the only way to find simplicity and fulfillment in life. The repetition of this phrase emphasizes the limits of traditional methods of achieving happiness or success. Perhaps the singer is suggesting that there may be other ways of living that involve surrendering control and embracing unpredictability.
Overall, "Ida My" is a thoughtful and reflective exploration of the desire for growth and permanence in a constantly changing world. It is a testament to the cyclical and interconnected nature of life, and a humble recognition of the small role that humans play in this grander scheme.
Line by Line Meaning
Chords, and coins, and restless poems end up slander
The writer's creative pursuits often lead to criticism and negative reception from others.
When my baby is born there will surely be a lasting shore
The writer finds comfort in the idea that their child will provide a sense of permanence and stability in their life.
Listless birds perch in soft, green herds, tickling the wind
The writer observes the beauty of nature and the tranquility it can bring.
With fall they will sleep with parched, swollen throats, and I've done nothing
The writer feels a sense of guilt and helplessness due to their inability to prevent the hardships and struggles of life.
But, with spring I will propagate their thirst to blinding eyes
Despite the challenges of life, the writer aims to inspire others to see the world with fresh eyes and renewed hope.
Planting seeds can't be the only way, the only way
The writer acknowledges that there are many paths towards finding happiness and meaning in life, and planting literal or metaphorical seeds is not the only option.
Planting seeds can't be the only way out
The writer rejects the idea that a single solution or action can solve all problems or provide all the answers in life.
Planting seeds can't be the only way to find a simple day, a simpler way
Instead, the writer suggests that finding simplicity and ease in life may involve a multifaceted approach and a perspective shift.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: ADAM TYLER BAKER
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind