Helvetia, an independent and experimental alternative music group from Seat… Read Full Bio ↴Helvetia, an independent and experimental alternative music group from Seattle, Washington, was created by Jason Albertini after the dissolution of the band Duster (in which he played drums). Helvetia's first record, "The Clever North Wind" (2006), was released on The Static Cult Label and distributed by Up Records. Their first national exposure was achieved by touring with Built To Spill. Helvetia is produced/performed by Jason Albertini and sustained by a rotating live line-up, which has included C. Dove Amber, Jim Roth and Scott Plouf. Their third release, "Headless Machine of the Heart" (2008) was recorded entirely on a 4-track tape machine. Helvetia continues to release music through The Static Cult Label (which is helmed by Duster-mate Clay Parton). The name Helvetia is the female personification of Switzerland, the childhood home of Jason Albertini.

What It Did
Helvetia Lyrics

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West side of town
In the crowd
You'd have to try to fight it
Wasn't it?

They keep wandering eternally
You're away
I know you'll say

Come on now man
Your chagrins
Are so profound
We now have changed
That's what you'll say

And you had plans
Of course you did
Just like anyone else
When the roof caved in
What it did

It's insane to lament
All these mistakes
They will remain
Sticks that way

Burn the ground
Kill the stakes

Overall Meaning

The song "What It Did" by Helvetia starts off by mentioning a specific location, the west side of town, and describes being in a crowd where it's difficult to resist or fight something. The lyrics then suggest the idea of wandering endlessly and being away from someone who is challenged by their deepest regrets. The person who holds these regrets is described as having a deep sense of chagrin or remorse. In response, the other person affirms that things have changed, and they now have a new perspective on their situation.

The chorus of "What It Did" switches gears and addresses the idea of lament and loss caused by mistakes. The song suggests that it's not healthy to dwell on these issues because mistakes will always remain - like sticks burned into the ground. The final lyrics refer to the idea of moving on and killing the stakes, which could be interpreted as saying it's time to move on from past regrets and focus on future possibilities.

Overall, the song creates a sense of reflection and acceptance, suggesting that mistakes happen and it's important to keep moving forward with life. The singer acknowledges the pain and frustration that might come from personal errors but ultimately pushes for a sense of growth and change.

Line by Line Meaning

West side of town
Referring to a specific place in town

In the crowd
Being present among many other people

You'd have to try to fight it
It is difficult to resist or go against the crowd

Wasn't it?
Asking the listener if they agree or remember this fact

They keep wandering eternally
There are some people who always wander aimlessly in life

You're away
You are not here or present

I know you'll say
The singer anticipates a response from the listener

Come on now man
A call to action or encouragement to the listener

Your chagrins
Your regrets or disappointments

Are so profound
They are deep or significant

We now have changed
Both the singer and listener have undergone a transformation