Given the long-running nature of the band, many participants in the D.C. hardcore scene had gone through G.I.'s membership. Government issue featured Brian Baker of Minor Threat, as well as Mike Fellows of Rites Of Spring and many others.
The G.I.s, as they were known, became one of the longest-running bands in the D.C. hardcore scene. After numerous line-up changes, the band broke up in 1989, vocalist John Stabb (aka: "Fruit Loops", he also had a band called Betty Blue in the mid-'90s, around 96-98, not sure of the status of that group, however) and guitarist Tom Lyle formed an experimental outfit called Glee Club and made two records. In addition, Tom Lyle made two solo records that were a more straight-ahead hard rock in 1990 and 1992.
Tom Lyle, Bassist J. Robbins, and drummer Peter Moffett regrouped to record two unrecorded G.I. songs. This was released as the Rollkicker Laydown E.P.
Bassist Jay Robbins went on to form Jawbox. Robbins later began Burning Airlines with G.I. drummer Peter Moffett.
Stabb formed the D.C. quintet The Factory Incident in 2000.
Wishing
Government Issue Lyrics
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And it's raining all the while
Wishing, too many regrets
It's all so lonely
It's all just a dream
Wishing, too many regrets
The lyrics to Government Issue's song "Wishing" paint a picture of a person who is feeling isolated and disconnected from the world around them. The first line, "She says everyone is dancing," suggests that the person is hearing about or seeing others who are enjoying life while they feel left out. The rain adds to the melancholy mood, as it often symbolizes sadness or a sense of renewal. The repeated phrase "Wishing, too many regrets" suggests that the person is filled with regret over missed opportunities and perhaps a sense of longing for something that they cannot have.
The second stanza repeats the idea of loneliness and emphasizes the feeling of disconnection even more strongly. The words "It's all so lonely / It's all just a dream" imply that the life this person is living feels unreal or unsatisfying. The repetition of the phrase "Wishing, too many regrets" at the end reinforces the idea that the person is stuck in a cycle of regret and longing.
Overall, "Wishing" is a poignant reminder of the power of regret and the impact it can have on our lives. It also explores themes of isolation, disconnection, and the search for fulfillment.
Line by Line Meaning
She says everyone is dancing
The singer's friend is claiming that everyone around them is enjoying life and living it up, but they are not feeling the same level of happiness and fulfillment.
And it's raining all the while
Despite the celebratory mood around them, there is a sense of melancholy and sadness that cannot be shaken off.
Wishing, too many regrets
With the realization that they are not satisfied with their current situation, the singer is overwhelmed with feelings of yearning and regret, wishing things could be different.
It's all so lonely
Perhaps due to societal pressures to fit in and be happy, the artist feels isolated and disconnected from those around them, adding to the overall sense of sadness.
It's all just a dream
In a moment of despair, the artist is questioning the reality of their situation, wondering if their dreams and aspirations are truly attainable or just a figment of their imagination.
Wishing, too many regrets
Reiterating the deep sense of longing and disappointment with their current circumstances, the singer concludes the song with the same repeated line as in the beginning.
Contributed by Hailey B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.