Michael Todd Berland and Christian Novelli have been releasing music together as Fox Academy since 2012. Their sound is characterized by drowsy and adventurous indie rock, appealing to fans of American Pleasure Club, Alex G, Strange Ranger and Oso Oso. Their approach to bedroom pop carries a distinct woodsy quality, often interweaving pop culture references and subtle humor amidst the prevailing melancholic vibes. Notably, their album Angel Hair, released in July 2019, features tracks titled "NASCAR" and "Property Brothers," with an opening line that humorously states, "I got metal in my headphones, metal in my face, I put metal in the microwave."
The duo released their first full album, "Luxury Beverage," in January 2015, followed by their second album, "Saint Molly," in April 2017. In 2020, Fox Academy presented their full-length documentary film titled "Late Nite Saints." The movie captures their exploration of the Pacific Northwest, seeking beauty and miracles in unexpected places. With a hypnotic ambient quality reminiscent of their music, this film provides a glimpse into the duo's lives.
In September 2020, Fox Academy released their fourth album "rabbit." The collection comprises hazy guitar tracks brimming with emotion and musical ingenuity. While an underlying emo sentiment is present, expressed through lyrics like "Nothing hurts like growing up" and "I hope that I see you tomorrow" in the final songs, the overall aesthetic leans toward a homemade, lo-fi slowcore sound. While guest appearances, including Jordana on the mellow electronic slow jam "Luck," are sprinkled throughout the album, "rabbit" primarily provides a window into the shared mindset of two friends who have embraced the subdued spirit of the times while upholding a longstanding DIY tradition.
Clover
Fox Academy Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Do I need more?
Who′s gonna show up
My feet feel sore again
Wish I felt nothing
Always feel something
I feel all of it
Think about me
With lake on my back
Do you love it when I laugh?
Blue
Stuffed teddy bear
Looking at Mount Rainier
Reflecting on water
Four knives in the drawer
Do I need more?
Who's gonna show up
Who′s gonna show up
Who's gonna show up?
The lyrics of Fox Academy's song "Clover" convey a sense of contemplation and vulnerability. The opening lines, "Four knives in the drawer, do I need more?", suggest a feeling of uncertainty and a search for something more. The repetition of the question "Who's gonna show up?" further emphasizes this yearning for someone or something to fill the void.
The following lines, "My feet feel sore again, wish I felt nothing, always feel something, I feel all of it," express a contrast between physical and emotional pain. The singer acknowledges their ability to feel intensely, perhaps even too much, and longs for release or numbness. This desire for emotional relief is further explored in the line, "Think about me with lake on my back, do you love it when I laugh?" Here, the singer reflects on how they are perceived by others, potentially seeking validation or acceptance through their expression of joy and laughter.
The second verse introduces a new imagery, as the mention of a "blue stuffed teddy bear, looking at Mount Rainier, reflecting on water" adds a serene and contemplative atmosphere to the lyrics. This imagery could symbolize a desire for tranquility and a longing for introspection.
Overall, "Clover" explores themes of longing, vulnerability, and the search for emotional relief. The repetition of certain lines adds emphasis to the questions and desires expressed in the lyrics, creating a sense of introspection and searching for answers.
Line by Line Meaning
Four knives in the drawer
I have multiple options or potential dangers
Do I need more?
Am I lacking something essential?
Who's gonna show up
Who will come and be present in my life?
My feet feel sore again
I am tired and exhausted
Wish I felt nothing
I desire to be emotionally numb
Always feel something
I am constantly experiencing various emotions
I feel all of it
I am fully aware and affected by my emotions
Think about me
Reflect on my existence or presence
With lake on my back
Carrying burdens or responsibilities
Do you love it when I laugh?
Do you appreciate or enjoy my happiness?
Blue
Feeling down or sad
Stuffed teddy bear
Comfort or solace
Looking at Mount Rainier
Contemplating something grand or majestic
Reflecting on water
Thinking or pondering deeply
Who's gonna show up
Who will come and be present in my life?
Who's gonna show up
Who will come and be present in my life?
Who's gonna show up?
Who will come and be present in my life?
Writer(s): Christian Ronald Novelli, Michael Todd Berland
Contributed by Jordyn P. Suggest a correction in the comments below.