Thumbs up
Howl & The Hum Lyrics


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Lay by my side
We’ll watch all the films that you like
Silent all night, silent all night
If that’s what you want

TV screen blue
We’ll sit and watch Predator 2
Cos it makes you feel silent & strong
Silent and strong

I think we should talk
I think we should talk

You give me a thumbs up
Just like the terminator did
When drowning in lava
Is it any wonder
Is it any wonder
I worry about you kid?

Open your mouth
The darkness can finally come out
As Bruce Willis cries
You realise
You could be alright

I think we should talk
I think we should talk

There’s a hole in my home town
All my friends seem to fall down
But never will float out
But you’re not alone now

Watching films with my brother
Wondering our place on this rock




And wondering what it’ll take now
To ever just stop

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Howl & The Hum's song "Thumbs Up" paint a vivid picture of a moment of intimacy and connection between two individuals. The singer invites their companion to lay by their side, expressing a willingness to engage in their partner's interests and desires by watching films together in silence. The choice to watch "Predator 2" specifically is highlighted, suggesting that this movie holds significance for the partner, perhaps representing feelings of strength and empowerment.


The refrain "I think we should talk" provides a stark contrast to the silence that permeates the rest of the lyrics, hinting at underlying issues or concerns that need to be addressed in the relationship. The imagery of giving a thumbs up, likened to the Terminator's iconic gesture in a moment of sacrifice, conveys a sense of worry and concern for the well-being of the partner. The reference to "drowning in lava" symbolizes a dramatic and desperate situation, emphasizing the weight of the singer's feelings towards their loved one.


As the lyrics progress, a sense of catharsis and emotional release is evoked through the metaphor of opening one's mouth to let the darkness come out. The mention of Bruce Willis crying suggests vulnerability and emotional authenticity, leading to a realization that despite past struggles, there is a possibility of hope and resilience. The acknowledgment of a hole in the singer's hometown and the struggles of friends falling down alludes to the challenges and uncertainties of life, but the presence of a supportive companion offers solace and companionship.


The final verses introduce themes of family bonds and existential contemplation, as the singer reflects on watching films with their brother and pondering their place in the world. The uncertainty of the future is palpable as they grapple with the idea of finding peace and stability amidst life's uncertainties. Overall, "Thumbs Up" conveys a tender yet introspective exploration of relationships, resilience, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world, ultimately emphasizing the importance of connection and communication in navigating life's challenges.


Line by Line Meaning

Lay by my side
Rest by my side, close to me


We’ll watch all the films that you like
We'll enjoy the movies that bring you joy


Silent all night, silent all night
Together in peaceful silence throughout the night


If that’s what you want
If that's what you desire


TV screen blue
The glow of the television screen


We’ll sit and watch Predator 2
We'll view Predator 2 together


Cos it makes you feel silent & strong
Because it empowers you to be calm and resilient


Silent and strong
Quiet and resilient


I think we should talk
I believe we need to have a conversation


You give me a thumbs up
You express approval with a simple gesture


Just like the terminator did
Similar to how the terminator once did


When drowning in lava
When facing a challenging situation


Is it any wonder
Is it surprising


I worry about you kid?
I'm concerned for you, my young friend


Open your mouth
Be honest and speak up


The darkness can finally come out
Reveal your inner struggles and fears


As Bruce Willis cries
This emotional moment with Bruce Willis in a film


You realise
You come to understand


You could be alright
You have the potential to be okay


There’s a hole in my home town
There is a sense of emptiness in my hometown


All my friends seem to fall down
Many of my friends face challenges


But never will float out
But they won't give up


But you’re not alone now
You have support and company now


Watching films with my brother
Enjoying movies with a close companion


Wondering our place on this rock
Reflecting on our purpose in this world


And wondering what it’ll take now
Contemplating what is needed


To ever just stop
To find peace and rest




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: Bradley Blackwell, Conor Hirons, Sam Griffiths

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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