As a teenager, Slug (Sean Daley) became entranced with hip-hop, graffiti, and breakdancing, forming the Rhymesayers label and collective (originally known as Headshots) with two high-school friends, Siddiq Ali (Stress) and Derek Turner (Spawn). After some early gigs as Urban Atmosphere -- where Slug DJed behind Spawn's rhyming -- the pair hooked up with producer Ant (Anthony Davis), as well as like-minded locals such as MC Musab, Mr. Gene Poole, and the Abstract Pack, forming an underground hip-hop clique dedicated to freestyling and clever lyricism. In 1997, Atmosphere released their debut album, Overcast!, which received college radio airplay and earned an underground hip-hop following thanks to Slug's deeply personal, poetic musings, as well as Ant's bare-bones -- but inventive -- production.
Atmosphere participated in the supergroup the Dynospectrum (who released a self-titled album on Rhymesayers in 1998) and Slug contributed to another supergroup, Anticon's Deep Puddle Dynamics (whose full-length The Taste of Rain...Why Kneel appeared in 1999). The Headshots collective concluded their series of underground cassettes with a seventh volume in 1999, later reissued as an Atmosphere release called Headshots: Se7en. The group also began a series of limited releases (often sold exclusively on tour) titled Sad Clown Bad Dub, beginning with an extremely scarce 1999 cassette.
A year later, Atmosphere (then down to the duo of Slug and Ant) released the Ford One and Ford Two EPs, followed by the Lucy EP in 2001. Collected as the 2001 full-length Lucy Ford: The Atmosphere EPs, the three EPs were built around the theme of Slug's complicated relationship with his ex-girlfriend, the lost love of his life. As Atmosphere's following increased beyond underground hip-hop circles, they toured consistently, both at home and overseas; while Ant usually didn't accompany the group on the road, Mr. Dibbs of the group 1200 Hobos often joined in behind the turntables while Slug was assisted on the mike by young rappers like the teenaged Eyedea. In June 2002, Atmosphere unleashed God Loves Ugly, an 18-track effort that returned to previous themes ("F*@k You Lucy"), but also contained the group's pop-friendly single "Modern Man's Hustle," which reached the Top 20 of the U.S. rap singles chart.
By this time indie rap superstars, Atmosphere returned with their fourth album, Seven's Travels, in 2003, followed two years later by You Can't Imagine How Much Fun We're Having. Following the record's success, Ant began regularly touring with the group. They continued to put music out during the next couple of years, including the free download Strictly Leakage in late 2007, a near-party album that they followed up with When Life Gives You Lemons, You Paint That Shit Gold in April 2008. The record featured plenty of live instrumentation and guest background vocal spots from Tom Waits and TV on the Radio's Tunde Adebimpe; it was also their highest-charting album, hitting number five on the Billboard 200. The "double EP" To All My Friends: Blood Makes the Blade Holy appeared in 2010, with the full-length album The Family Sign following in 2011.
In 2014, the group released the album Southsiders, which featured the single "Bitter" and became another Top Ten-charting hit. The following year, Atmosphere celebrated the ten-year anniversary of You Can't Imagine How Much Fun We're Having by reissuing the album as a four-LP set (including instrumental versions of all the album's songs), in addition to The Fun EP, a picture-disc vinyl issue of an EP of You Can't Imagine outtakes that was originally released as a promo CD in 2006. In 2016, they returned with Fishing Blues, an album that featured the single "Ringo" along with guest appearances from MF Doom, Kool Keith, and Aesop Rock. While the set peaked just outside the Top 20 on the Billboard 200, it became their second album to top the U.S. indie chart. Mi Vida Local, an urgent reflection on middle age, appeared in 2018, followed a year later by the full-length Whenever. The Day Before Halloween arrived on that exact date in 2020, with Atmosphere unexpectedly switching to sci-fi/horror-informed themes over spooky, synth-heavy backdrops. Nearly a year later, Ant and Slug swerved back to their signature sound with Word?, which included guests such as Evidence, Aesop Rock, Sa-Roc, and MF Doom.
Biography by Dan LeRoy
There are other artists with the same name:
2) A Polish rock group, established in 1993 in Leszno, Poland, with Marcin Rozynek as a vocalist. In 1994 the group appeared at Mokotowska Jesień Muzyczna, where they were runners-up just behind Myslovitz. Two years later they won competition Marlboro Rock In. In 1997, Atmosphere released their self-titled debut album, Atmosphere, and in 1999 released Europa Naftowa. Atmosphere was awarded the Album debut of the year 1997 by magazine Tylko Rock and was nominated for the award Fryderyk in 1998 in the category Debut of the Year. In 1998, Atmosphere appeared at the National Festival of Polish Song in Opole with song Niewielki Skrawek Ziemi. Disbanded after Marcin Rozynek departure for a solo career. However, Atmosphere regrouped recently with a new line-up and is recording a new album.
3) An obscure one hit wonder Italo-disco group of the early 80’s. The group was produced by Franco & Venise Scopinich, and their one single “Swede’s Scandal” was realased on Superradio Reccords (label owned by Franco & Venise Scopinich).
4) A thrash metal band of the same name from Vietnam who have released two demo's.
Deer Wolf
Atmosphere Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I know a lotta people but not many that I trust
And outta those I trust not many I would touch
They say I talk in circles but I write it line by line
And if I don't really know you I'ma lie and say I'm fine
And I spit rhymes hoping that someone who thinks like me
Related to the emotions interlocked within the phyche
To catch that ear of the kid who says 'damn that shit is dope' (damn that shit is dope)
Not to mention I love the attention
Went from hidin in the boxcars to drivin the engine
And I sit in the same chair under the same light
Round the same time a night when I write
Probably will for life
25 and I ain't gettin any younger
Living to survive can you spare a penny brother?
Now in the name of all world wide rhyme sayers
I'ma drive pass ? park and spray the soccer players
[CHORUS]
How many licks does it take to get to the center of your universe? [4X]
(let thy moon arise while I close my eyes...)
Finally finalize the line by line of tryin to climb in between your minds thighs
Self esteem watch it grow like mold
Watch the loads it holds
As the soul unfolds
Track my faith as I wade through a pack a day
Have to wait call me back next Saturday
Pass the steak I'ma about to stick this vampire
Touch the heart and lay the carcass on the campfire
Burn baby burn and take your cents with ya
If the shoe don't fit ya remove it to lose the business
Get the car started warm it up for the journey
Wake up abuse and shake of the blues
And make stops to fill the tank stops to urinate
Stops to meditate and let the thoughts resonate
Stops to celebrate stops just for heavens sake
Stops in an attempt to make the bad shit and get it straight
The ashma regualtes the breath control so thanks for the tapes
And eat your vegetables and yo I write it for me and if you like it that's love
And if you don't that's life cause life don't like slug
[CHORUS]
Its the super unleaded imbedded within my head trips
Kept it in check with the skeptics and the essence when it
Festers infection fills with fluid
Apply the pressure it burts to satisfy the thirst
20/20 sight so I got no excuse my soul is broken lose from over use
Tell me who can hold the noose while I make certain it fits me
Judgement first impresstion naturally shifty
Each one tried to teach one when it begun
Struggling for freedom tryin to build a kingdom
Now your sippin Segrums tryin to fix a threesome
Between you your girl and that freak with the nissan
Wheels keep spinning accelerator sticks
So sugar up the coffee and celophane your dick
And lace the spliff and make sure that dosage is right
Cause lifes a bitch (lifes a bitch) and I'ma hold it tight
[CHORUS]
Atmosphere's song "Deer Wolf" talks about a variety of complex themes, including creativity, trust, relationships, age, and self-esteem. Slug, the lead singer and lyricist, talks about being an artist who is trying to connect with people who share his emotions, his fears, and his struggles. He raps about how he writes line by line to express his feelings and experiences in a way that can connect with others. He also talks about how he uses music as a tool to catch the attention of people, hoping that someone might find his lyrics powerful, relatable, and inspiring.
Furthermore, Slug highlights the importance of trust in human relationships. He expresses his distrust towards most people he knows and emphasizes that only a few people he trusts, and he is willing to touch them. He acknowledges that he is probably more comfortable expressing his feelings through music than in person. Still, he also admits that he lies and pretends everything's fine, to avoid showing vulnerability or weakness. Finally, Slug talks about the struggles of getting older and the need to survive in a tough world, asking for financial help from others who may be better off than he is.
Overall, "Deer Wolf" is a complex mixture of different themes, all of which revolve around self-expression, creativity, trust, relationships, and survival. Slug's lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and honesty, showing that even successful artists can struggle with similar issues to the general population.
Line by Line Meaning
I know a lotta people but not many that I trust
I have many acquaintances but very few friends who I confide in.
And outta those I trust not many I would touch
Even among those I trust, I am wary of getting too close to avoid any potential betrayal or disappointment.
They say I talk in circles but I write it line by line
While I may sometimes struggle to express myself verbally, my writing is precise and thoughtful.
And if I don't really know you I'ma lie and say I'm fine
If I am not comfortable sharing my feelings with someone, I may pretend everything is okay to avoid a deeper conversation.
And I spit rhymes hoping that someone who thinks like me
My music is a way for me to connect with others who share my values and beliefs.
Related to the emotions interlocked within the phyche
My music explores the complex emotions and thoughts that we all experience within our minds.
Spit rhymes to catch chicks to catch hope
My music is also a way for me to attract romantic partners and find hope in my life.
Not to mention I love the attention
I am not ashamed to admit that I enjoy the attention and recognition that comes with being a successful musician.
Went from hidin in the boxcars to drivin the engine
I started from humble beginnings but have worked hard to achieve my success.
And I sit in the same chair under the same light
Despite my success, I have not lost touch with my roots and often find comfort in familiar surroundings.
Round the same time a night when I write
I have a consistent routine when it comes to writing music and find it most productive at night.
Probably will for life
I have a passion for music that I expect will never wane.
25 and I ain't gettin any younger
Although I am still young, I am aware of the fleeting nature of time and the need to make the most of my opportunities.
Living to survive can you spare a penny brother?
Despite my success, I am still struggling to make ends meet and could use some financial assistance.
Now in the name of all world wide rhyme sayers
In the spirit of all successful musicians around the world,
I'ma drive pass ? park and spray the soccer players
I am not afraid to take risks and push boundaries in my music, even if it is controversial or unconventional.
Finally finalize the line by line of tryin to climb in between your minds thighs
I am constantly working to improve my songwriting and understand my audience on a deeper level.
Self esteem watch it grow like mold
My confidence in myself and my music has grown over time, like a mold that spreads and takes hold.
Watch the loads it holds
I am aware of the weight of my success and the pressures that come with it.
As the soul unfolds
As I continue to explore my own personal journey through my music, my inner self is revealed and laid bare.
Track my faith as I wade through a pack a day
Despite my struggles, I continue to have faith and persevere through the challenges of everyday life.
Have to wait call me back next Saturday
I am busy, but willing to make time for those who matter to me.
Pass the steak I'ma about to stick this vampire
I am not afraid to confront and overcome my personal demons, represented here by the metaphor of a vampire.
Touch the heart and lay the carcass on the campfire
My music is designed to emotionally connect with my audience, and sometimes involves letting go of past failures or shortcomings.
Burn baby burn and take your cents with ya
I am willing to let go of material possessions and focus on the bigger picture of my art.
If the shoe don't fit ya remove it to lose the business
If something isn't working, I'm not afraid to make changes to improve my music and stay relevant.
Get the car started warm it up for the journey
I am always moving forward, preparing for the next stage in my musical career.
Wake up abuse and shake of the blues
I am not afraid to face my personal problems and work to overcome them.
And make stops to fill the tank stops to urinate
Even in the midst of a busy day, it's important to take time for self-care and basic human needs.
Stops to meditate and let the thoughts resonate
Through meditation, I am able to clear my mind and focus on my music and my own journey as an artist.
Stops to celebrate stops just for heavens sake
Occasionally, it's important to slow down and appreciate the good things in life, just for the sake of enjoying them.
Stops in an attempt to make the bad shit and get it straight
Through self-reflection and introspection, I can address the negative aspects of my life and work to improve them.
The ashma regualtes the breath control so thanks for the tapes
My struggles with asthma and my need for breathing control have had a direct impact on my music, and I am grateful for the artists who have influenced me.
And eat your vegetables and yo I write it for me and if you like it that's love
My music is a personal expression of my own experiences and insights, and while I appreciate the support of my fans, I ultimately write for myself.
And if you don't that's life cause life don't like slug
If my music doesn't resonate with you or isn't your taste, that's okay because not everyone will like everything I create.
Its the super unleaded imbedded within my head trips
My music is powered by my own unique experiences and perspective, which are deeply ingrained in my personality.
Kept it in check with the skeptics and the essence when it
I am open to criticism and skepticism, but also stay true to the essential elements of my music.
Festers infection fills with fluid
Sometimes, the creative process can be painful and difficult, but ultimately leads to a more fulfilling expression of ideas.
Apply the pressure it burts to satisfy the thirst
In order to create meaningful art, there needs to be a degree of pressure and urgency to bring out the best ideas and emotions.
20/20 sight so I got no excuse my soul is broken lose from over use
I have a clear understanding of who I am as a person, and am aware of how I may be worn down or damaged by the challenges of life.
Tell me who can hold the noose while I make certain it fits me
I am in complete control of my own destiny and artistic vision, and won't allow anyone else to dictate my direction.
Judgement first impresstion naturally shifty
I am aware that people often make quick judgments and assumptions about me, but am confident in my own skin and talent.
Each one tried to teach one when it begun
I have learned much from others in the music industry, and am always looking for new ideas and techniques to incorporate into my work.
Struggling for freedom tryin to build a kingdom
Despite the many challenges and obstacles I may face, I am determined to create something great with my music.
Now your sippin Segrums tryin to fix a threesome
While others may indulge in meaningless pursuits, I am focused on my art and my own personal goals.
Between you your girl and that freak with the nissan
I recognize the importance of healthy relationships, but am not willing to compromise my own artistic vision for the sake of others.
Wheels keep spinning accelerator sticks
Life can sometimes feel like it's moving too fast, but I am always adjusting and adapting to new challenges.
So sugar up the coffee and celophane your dick
I recognize that life can be difficult and stressful, but am committed to finding healthy and productive ways to cope and stay focused on my music.
And lace the spliff and make sure that dosage is right
I am not perfect, and occasionally indulge in substances to help me relax and find inspiration for my music.
Cause lifes a bitch (lifes a bitch) and I'ma hold it tight
Despite the many challenges and setbacks of life, I am determined to persevere and create something meaningful and lasting with my music.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Ajna
I know a lot of people,but not many that i trust
and out of those i trust,not many i would touch
they say i talk in circles but i write it line by line
and if i dont really know you imma lie and say im fine
i spit rhymes,hoping that someone who thinks like me
relates to the emotions interlocked within the psyche
spit rhymes,to catch chicks and catch hope
and catch the ear of that kid that says damn that shit is dope.
Not to mention,i love the attention,went from hiding in the boxcars to driving the engine
and i sit in the same chair under the same light around the same time at night,when i write
probably will for life,25 and i aint getting any younger,living to survive,can you spare a penny brother?
now in the name of all worldwide rhymesayers imma drive past king park and spray the soccer players.
<<HOW MANY LICKS DOES IT TAKE TO GET TO THE CENTER OF YOUR UNIVERSE??>>
<<let thy moon arise while i close my eyes>>
Finally finalize the line by line of tryin to climb in between your minds thighs
self esteem watch it grow like mold,watch the loads it holds
as the soul unfolds.Track my faith as I wade through a pack a day
have to wait call me back next saturday,pass the steak,i'm about to stick this vampire
touch the heart and lay the carcass on the campfire,burn baby burn and take your sins with you
If the shoe don't fit you remove it to lose the business,get that car started warm it up for the journey
Wake up abuse and shake off the blues and make stops to fill the tank stops to urinate
stops to meditate and let the thoughts resonate,stops to celebrate stops just for heavens sake
stops in an attempt to take the bent shit and get it straight.
The asthma regulates the breath control so thanks for buying the tapes
and eat your vegetables ayo I write it for me and if you like it that's love and if you don't that's life cause life don't like slug.
<<HOW MANY LICKS DOES IT TAKE TO GET TO THE CENTER OF YOUR UNIVERSE??>>
<<let thy moon arise while i close my eyes>>
Its the super unleaded, embedded within my head trips
kept it in check with the skeptics and the essense when it festers, infection fills with fluid
apply the pressure it bursts to satisfy the thirst
20/20 sight so I got no excuse, my soul is broken loose from over use
tell me who can hold the noose, while I make certain it fits me
judgement first impresstion naturally shifty,each one tried to teach one when it begun
struggling for freedom tryin to build a kingdom
now your sippin seagrams tryin to fix a threesome
between you your girl and that freak with the nissan
wheels keep spinning accelerator sticks
so sugar up the coffee and celophane your dick
and lace the spliff but make sure that dosage is right
cause lifes a bitch and I'mma hold it tight
<<HOW MANY LICKS DOES IT TAKE TO GET TO THE CENTER OF YOUR UNIVERSE??>>
<<let thy moon arise while i close my eyes>>
Genome_J
man. slug is so underated. they just dont know how dope he is. him as well as murs. the good thing is that they both get alot of respect. they have alot of good fans. its just heartbreaking how so many people dont know good music. i wish the hip hop scene looked more like this.
Pokemon Plug_
Felt best duo
Daniel Rölle
Slug´s lyrical versaitility is kind of inhuman. definitely one of the best guys who call theirselves a rap artist.
UnjustMurder
Inhuman? more Aesop than Slug tbh
Max Weaver
The vibe of this song, is unmatched.
Don S
this song has gotten me thru alot of different periods in my life.. when i was younger the meaning was different then it is now... yo mr daily... good work, and thanks for da motivation.... FINALLY FINALIZED !!!
happybulb
The quality on this song is incredible, I hear it so deep in my mind.
riotmaker7771
One of atmospheres best songs forreal
kyle Thompson
+riotmaker7771 yeah its my fav by him for sure
Logan Van Dyk
riotmaker7771 This song made me dive into the world of Atmosphere