Vocalist Aidan Moffat and multi-instrumentalist Malcolm Middleton met in Falkirk, bonded over their mutual love for Drag City recording artists such as Smog and Will Oldham, and began a collaboration in 1995. The band is completed by violinist Jenny Reeve and cellist Stacey Sievewright. Arab Strap's marked characteristics include frank and forthright lyrics delivered in a Scottish brogue.
Aidan Moffat and Malcolm Middleton confirmed the rumours about the end of Arab Strap on 8th September 2006. They celebrated their Ten Years of Tears with a tour through the UK and the rest of Europe. After UK/Europe, they made a short secret tour in Japan as the last of Arab Strap. In 2016, however, they have reunited a decade after their breakup and will be touring throughout the year 2017.
Not Quite A Yes
Arab Strap Lyrics
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PIGLET
In "Not Quite A Yes," Arab Strap examines the complexities of romantic communication, particularly when one person is too intoxicated to properly convey their feelings. The singer admits to being "out [their] face" when they try to convey their attraction to someone, and confesses that despite finding the other person cute and well-meaning, they probably won't be compatible because of differing levels of interest in partying and drinking.
The lyrics demonstrate how seemingly small differences can have a big impact on a relationship, and how alcohol can act as a barrier to genuine emotional intimacy. The singer's lack of confidence in their own ability to communicate and connect with the other person is palpable, and the line "not a no, not quite a yes" perfectly encapsulates the murky middle ground of uncertainty and confusion that often arises in romantic situations.
Line by Line Meaning
Why could I not speak?
I was intimidated and nervous to express my feelings.
You're not so unique.
You're not as special or different as I initially thought.
My eyes stayed on the floor.
I avoided eye contact due to my insecurity and apprehension.
I make a little suggestion before I pop the question but I was far too out my face. I was out my face.
I tried to hint at my intentions before directly asking, but I was too drunk and impaired.
"It's the first time in ages I've actually had the guts to ask but I'm feeling particularly confident tonight, if you know what I mean.
I rarely have the courage to ask someone out, but tonight I feel confident and bold.
But that's the thing - you don't know what I mean.
You don't understand the full extent of my intentions or feelings.
The reason I fancy you in the first place is the same reason we'll no get on, 'cause you're just no into it.
The quality that attracted me to you initially will ultimately be the reason we aren't compatible - you're not interested in the same things.
I mean you're cute and you're innocent and you're nice and that but you barely even drink."
You may have attractive qualities, but our differing lifestyles make us incompatible.
No meeting was I granted but now the seed's been planted and now you're in the know.
You didn't agree to go out with me, but at least now you know how I feel.
Too steaming to impress; not a no, not quite a yes.
I was too intoxicated to make a good impression, and your response was ambiguous - not a clear rejection, but not a definite yes either.
You ask if that's okay.
You're checking to see if I'm okay with your response.
I suppose it's okay.
I accept your response, even though it's not the outcome I was hoping for.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Aidan Moffat, Malcolm Middleton
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
M W
You're just not into it. I mean, you're cute and you're innocent
And you're nice and all that, but you barely even drink."..... Best pick up line that worked for me for me! Brilliant band!
蔚爾導演Director Lynn Chen Weier
always love it!
Nele Serra
i don't know why i have been in love with the song