In 1989 Ian Broudie began recording alone under the name "Lightning Seeds" and achieved success with the psychedelic synthpop hit Pure, from the album Cloudcuckooland, which reached the U.K. Top 20. The same year Joy and All I Want were also released but failed to make an impression. "Pure" had some success in the US Billboard Top 40 reaching number thirty-two. Both "Pure" and "All I Want" also reached the Modern Rock Tracks top ten. In 1991 Broudie returned to song-writing and moved labels from Rough Trade to Virgin.
The album Sense featured the song "The Life of Riley", written by Broudie for his son, which reached twenty-eight in the U.K. singles chart and just registered at ninety-eight in the U.S. Billboard Hot 100. An instrumental version of the song later became better known as the BBC TV theme for the "Goal of the Month" competition. "Sense" marked Broudie's first Lightning Seeds song-writing collaborations with former Specials singer Terry Hall. The album's title track "Sense", co-written with Hall, climbed to thirty-one in the U.K. Singles Chart; however, the album stagnated at fifty-three.
Broudie's contract expired with Virgin and Epic agreed to sign him. Broudie put other projects on hold and embarked on a touring schedule.
By the end of 1993 Broudie had finished the Jollification (1994) album, which included contributions from Terry Hall and Simon Rogers as well as Ian McNabb. A promotional tour began in August 1994 with their lineup consisting of, guitarist Paul Hemmings, drummer Chris Sharrock, bassist Martyn Campbell, and keyboardist Ali Kane. The tour benefitted from the success of the second single from the album Change, which reached thirteen in the U.K. singles charts, becoming Lightning Seeds' second U.K. top-twenty hit. The album Jollification became a critical success, and the singles taken from this album, "Lucky You", "Marvellous" and "Perfect" made noticeable impact. Mark Farrow's album cover featured the use of computer graphics to create an enormous strawberry and depicting seeds with superimposed human faces.
The band bought Eel Pie Studios, created using a barge moored on the River Thames, from Pete Townshend of The Who. During this period a number of songs were recorded for the fourth studio album Dizzy Heights. The single "Ready or Not" was released before the album, and reached twenty in the U.K. singles chart.
In 1996 the Football Association commissioned Broudie and Lightning Seeds to write theme music for the Euro '96 football tournament. Broudie agreed on the condition that comedians Frank Skinner and David Baddiel wrote the lyrics. The resulting song, "Three Lions", became the band's first number one on the U.K. singles chart, and was adopted as a football chant, not only in the U.K. but also in countries such as Germany, where the single and accompanying video reached sixteen.
During this period the band achieved three more U.K. Top 20 hits, including a cover version of The Turtles' "You Showed Me", which beacame one of their biggest hits. Between 1996 and 1997 the band's line-up changed. Chris Sharrock left to work with World Party and was replaced by Mat Priest from Dodgy. Angie Pollock, who had previously worked with Shakespears Sister and Terry Hall, replaced Ali Kane on keyboards.
1997 saw the release of Like You Do, and a U.K. promotional tour followed. "What You Say", one of two new songs included with the compilation, was released but failed to register in the top 40. Part way through the tour Zak Starkey, son of The Beatles' drummer Ringo Starr, replaced Priest on drums.
In 1998 "Three Lions '98" was recorded for the World Cup in France, featuring a re-written lyric. The song reached number one in the U.K. singles chart, and became the first song to top the charts on two separate occasions with different sets of lyrics. In 1998 Lightning Seeds also performed on the main stage at the Glastonbury Festival and the V Festival in the U.K.
Their 1999 album Tilt was dance-orientated, and featured collaborations with Stephen Jones. The single "Life's Too Short" rose to twenty-seven in the U.K. Singles Chart. "Sweetest Soul Sensations" reached sixty-seven, and did not attract serious attention.
In 2000 Lightning Seeds performed along with Space and Stereophonics at Cream 2000. Later that year Broudie confirmed, in the Liverpool Echo, that Lightning Seeds were to take a long break after a final show at Liverpool's L2 venue.
The band's second greatest hits album The Very Best of the Lightning Seeds was released on the 12th June 2006, followed by the re-release of "Three Lions", which rose to nine in the U.K. Singles Chart.
In the summer of 2006 Ian Broudie formed a new Lightning Seeds line-up for indoor shows and festival appearances. The band released their sixth studio album, Four Winds, in May 2009, and appeared at festivals during July, August, and September the same year
* Official website
Perfect
Lightning Seeds Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I wish it could be blue again
Hazy petrol nights
Crimson sun on traffic lights
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Streets get full up every night
With people buzzing round the lights
And waving at the taxis driving by
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Watch the morning chase the night
Rolling home, it's getting light
Feeling sleepy, full of wine
Fall in bed, just in time
The perfect stare of perfect eyes
That kiss you as they tell you lies
And wonder where you're going, where've you been
In towers high with time to fill
Gardens on your window sill
In between the pavement and the sky
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Perfect silence me and you
It's really me, I really do
Remember every moment magnified
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
The Lightning Seeds’s “Perfect” is a song that expresses a desire for perfection in everyday life. Olly Murs later covered this song as well, which further proves the lasting impact of the track. The lyrics of the song touch on different aspects of daily life, such as weather, traffic, nights, and lies. The first stanza talks about rain filling the rivers, which may indicate sadness or depression, and the wish for blue skies again. The imagery shifts toward the night, with hazy petrol nights and crimson sun on traffic lights, which suggests a yearning for the ideal conditions.
The chorus mentions the repetition of "perfect day" and "perfect night," which reflects the theme of perfection, but also serves as a commentary on how life can feel repetitive in general. The singer asks to be told "all those perfect lies" and to "lie back in the garden 'till it's light," which conveys a longing for escape from reality. The second stanza mentions how streets get filled up every night with people moving around the city, trying to get somewhere. This could signify the hustle and bustle of life, with everyone trying to fit in and not knowing where they are headed. The phrase "yesterday's today's just fade away" could mean that the past is past and should be left behind, while the morning chases the night, indicating that every new day brings new possibilities.
The final stanza represents the most intimate part of the song, with the lyrics expressing the idea that a perfect day can be found in the silent moments shared with someone else. The singer remembers every moment magnified and feels as though those intimate moments with someone else were perfect. The line "tell me why all the words will never come out right" could indicate a fear of losing the connection with someone, while the mention of "driving through the danger signs" could signify the obstacles met along the way in life.
Line by Line Meaning
See the rivers filled with rain
The rainwater has filled up the rivers and they look different, like most things do when they change. Change can be hard.
I wish it could be blue again
The blue color seems to be symbolic of something good and pure, and the singer wishes things could go back to being that way.
Hazy petrol nights
The singer is probably sitting in a car and looking out at the streetlights with the warm, dull light that petrol fumes can create. It's a specific atmosphere that can evoke different feelings in people.
Crimson sun on traffic lights
The crimson color creates an image of heat, passion, and intensity, and the reference to traffic lights probably suggests a feeling of being trapped in some way.
A perfect day a perfect night
The idea of a perfect day and a perfect night might seem unattainable, but it's something that people still strive for. It's a human desire to have things be good and happy all the time.
Tell me all those perfect lies
The singer is asking someone to tell them what they want to hear, even if it's not true. Sometimes people tell lies to avoid hurting others, but the truth can be painful too.
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
The singer seems content with taking things slow and relaxing, even if it means doing nothing for a while. It's a moment of peace and tranquility to just rest and be still.
Streets get full up every night
The streets are always crowded, especially at night when everyone is out and about. People are drawn to certain places for specific reasons, and the artist is acknowledging that fact.
With people buzzing round the lights
The bustling activity on the streets can be compared to the buzzing of bees around flowers. It's a busy and loud environment that can be both exciting and overwhelming.
And waving at the taxis driving by
The artist is probably a part of the crowd, and there are taxis passing by that people are waving to. It's a moment of connection with strangers in a chaotic environment.
Now tomorrow's here today
The future always becomes the present, and time keeps moving. It's easy to feel like things are moving too fast, but it's important to live in the moment as much as possible.
And yesterday's today's just fade away
The past seems to become less vivid as we move further from it. Memories can become hazy and details can be forgotten, but they still shape who we are in the present.
Watch the morning chase the night
As the night fades away, the sun rises and the morning begins. It's the start of a new day with new opportunities and challenges to face.
Rolling home, it's getting light
The singer is either driving or being driven home, and it's starting to become light outside. It's the end of a long night and a time to unwind.
Feeling sleepy, full of wine
The singer might have had a bit to drink and is feeling the effects. They're probably feeling relaxed but also tired, ready to rest after a long night.
Fall in bed, just in time
The artist is finally able to lay down and rest. It's a moment of relief and comfort after a long day, and everything feels just right.
The perfect stare of perfect eyes
The reference to perfect eyes might suggest a feeling of being infatuated or in love with someone. It's a powerful feeling that can make everything else feel insignificant.
That kiss you as they tell you lies
The singer is probably referring to a moment of being deceived or misled by someone they care about. Lies can be hurtful and damaging, even if they're told with good intentions.
And wonder where you're going, where've you been
The singer is questioning their own path in life and is probably feeling a bit lost or uncertain. It's a common feeling to wonder if we're on the right track, but it can also be liberating to explore different paths.
In towers high with time to fill
The reference to towers might suggest a feeling of being isolated or disconnected from the world below. It can be lonely up high, and the artist is acknowledging that they have time to fill and things to do.
Gardens on your window sill
The idea of a garden on a window sill might suggest a feeling of being trapped or confined, but it's also a way to bring a little bit of nature inside. It's a small way of finding beauty in unexpected places.
In between the pavement and the sky
The reference to pavement might suggest a feeling of being grounded or rooted to the earth, while the sky represents endless possibilities and dreams. It's a balancing act between the two worlds.
Perfect silence me and you
The idea of perfect silence might suggest a moment of clarity or understanding. The singer is probably with someone they care about and there's nothing that needs to be said.
It's really me, I really do
The artist might be reassuring themselves that they're being authentic and true to their own beliefs and values. It's a moment of self-validation.
Remember every moment magnified
The idea of magnifying memories might suggest a feeling of nostalgia or longing for the past. It's a reminder that even small moments can have a big impact on our lives and should be cherished.
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
The singer is acknowledging that words can fail us at times, even when we have the best intentions. Communication can be difficult, but it's still important to keep trying.
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
The singer is probably feeling lost or unsure about where they're going in life. They're driving through unfamiliar territory and might be taking risks or making mistakes along the way.
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: IAN BROUDIE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Periklis Gogas
See the rivers filled with rain
I wish it could be blue again
Hazy petrol nights
Crimson sun on traffic lights
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Streets get full up every night
With people buzzing round the lights
And waving at the taxis driving by
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Watch the morning chase the night
Rolling home, it's getting light
Feeling sleepy, full of wine
Fall in bed, just in time
The perfect stare of perfect eyes
That kiss you as they tell you lies
And wonder where you're going, where've you been
In towers high with time to fill
Gardens on your window sill
In between the pavement and the sky
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
molko activity
Perfect"
See the rivers filled with rain
I wish it could be blue again
Hazy petrol nights
Crimson sun on traffic lights
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden till it's light
Streets get full up every night
With people buzzing round the lights
And waving at the taxis driving by
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Watch the morning chase the night
Rolling home it's getting light
Feeling sleepy full of wine
Fall in bed just in time
The perfect stare of perfect eyes
That kiss you as they tell you lies
And wonder where you're going where've you been
In towers high with time to fill
Gardens on your window sill
In between the pavement and the sky
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why
All the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind
I've been driving through the danger signs
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden till it's light
Perfect silence me and you
It's really me I really do
Remember every moment magnified
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why
All the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind
I've been driving through the danger signs
Luz
letra
Ver los ríos llenos de lluvia
See the rivers filled with rain
Ojalá pudiera volver a ser azul
I wish it could be blue again
Noches brumosas de gasolina
Hazy petrol nights
Sol carmesí en los semáforos
Crimson sun on traffic lights
Un día perfecto una noche perfecta
A perfect day a perfect night
Dime todas esas mentiras perfectas
Tell me all those perfect lies
Y recuéstate en el jardín hasta que amanezca
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Las calles se llenan todas las noches
Streets get full up every night
Con gente zumbando alrededor de las luces
With people buzzing round the lights
Y saludando a los taxis que pasan
And waving at the taxis driving by
Ahora mañana está aquí hoy
Now tomorrow's here today
Y el ayer de hoy simplemente se desvanece
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Mira la mañana perseguir la noche
Watch the morning chase the night
Rodando a casa, está amaneciendo
Rolling home, it's getting light
Sentirse somnoliento, lleno de vino.
Feeling sleepy, full of wine
Caer en la cama, justo a tiempo
Fall in bed, just in time
La mirada perfecta de ojos perfectos
The perfect stare of perfect eyes
Que te besen mientras te dicen mentiras
That kiss you as they tell you lies
Y me pregunto a dónde vas, dónde has estado
And wonder where you're going, where've you been
En torres altas con tiempo para llenar
In towers high with time to fill
Jardines en el alféizar de su ventana
Gardens on your window sill
Entre el pavimento y el cielo
In between the pavement and the sky
Ahora mañana está aquí hoy
Now tomorrow's here today
Y el ayer de hoy simplemente se desvanece
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Dime por qué todas las palabras nunca saldrán bien
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
A ciegas, he estado conduciendo a través de las señales de peligro
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
Un día perfecto una noche perfecta
A perfect day a perfect night
Dime todas esas mentiras perfectas
Tell me all those perfect lies
Y recuéstate en el jardín hasta que amanezca
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Perfecto silencio tu y yo
Perfect silence me and you
Soy realmente yo, realmente lo hago
It's really me, I really do
Recuerda cada momento magnificado
Remember every moment magnified
Ahora mañana está aquí hoy
Now tomorrow's here today
Y el ayer de hoy simplemente se desvanece
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Dime por qué todas las palabras nunca saldrán bien
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
A ciegas, he estado conduciendo a través de las señales de peligro
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
Andrea Reinaldhy
Ringkasan
Lirik
Dengarkan
Video
Hasil Utama
See the rivers filled with rain
I wish it could be blue again
Hazy petrol nights
Crimson sun on traffic lights
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Streets get full up every night
With people buzzing round the lights
And waving at the taxis driving by
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Watch the morning chase the night
Rolling home, it's getting light
Feeling sleepy, full of wine
Fall in bed, just in time
The perfect stare of perfect eyes
That kiss you as they tell you lies
And wonder where you're going, where've you been
In towers high with time to fill
Gardens on your window sill
In between the pavement and the sky
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
A perfect day a perfect night
Tell me all those perfect lies
And lie back in the garden 'till it's light
Perfect silence me and you
It's really me, I really do
Remember every moment magnified
Now tomorrow's here today
And yesterday's today's just fade away
Tell me why all the words will never come out right
Fumbling blind, I've been driving through the danger signs
Crackling Vinyl
2021 and The Lightning Seeds still sound fresh. Broudie's superb lyrics and unmistakable sound. Every single they did was a gem. Criminally underrated band.
Evelyn Range
90s, aged 15 sunbathing in the back garden...dreaming of the future ...perfect 👌🏻❤ Now im 40 and I'm still dreaming x
mickwaw1888
Keep on dreaming
Andrew Hawkes
Ditto......🙏💙
Ben Dover
Same darling
Tom Dixon
Same here except i was 5
Zoran Golubovski
that means that you are alive and living :)))
Julie P
What a tune… what a band! Jollification is a fantastic album with each track being top drawer.. Love Ian B and his band.
singIeservingfriend
Broudie - such an underrated songwriter, he made some of the best pop music of the 90s
moviee5
Perfect song, perfect lines, perfect music, in a perfect time.