Their style has been compared to a mixture of Tom Waits, Frank Zappa, and Captain Beefheart. Man Man is known for their distinctive live shows where the members of the band dress in white tennis outfits and don war paint. During their sets the band does not take breaks between songs in order to keep a constant energy level.
Man Man has released two LPs with Ace Fu Records: The Man in the Blue Turban With a Face (2004) and Six Demon Bag (2006). In November 2007 they signed with Anti- to release Rabbit Habits (2008). Their second Anti- release is titled Life Fantastic and was released in 2011.
Curtains
Man Man Lyrics
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Even though your heathen days are long gone
And the need to be redeemed is such a boring thing to want
Caved in, hibernating, waiting for the sun
To come along and dry you out and hang you from a cloud
The lyrics of Man Man’s song “Curtains” speak to the prospect of redemption, despite leading a life that could have been deemed as “heathen.” The first line of the verse suggests that redemption could still be possible, even though the person it is directed to has long been disconnected from their faith or any spiritual connection. However, it is evident that this person desperately desires redemption, but the mere act of wanting it is considered mundane.
The second line of the verse speaks to the idea of being stagnant and dormant, waiting for something to ignite them back to life. The metaphor of hibernation illustrates a period of inactivity, and the need to “dry out” suggests that the person might have followed a path of destruction prior to this period. The last line of the verse, “to come along and dry you out and hang you from a cloud,” expresses a sense of suspension in the air, almost like an exalted state of purgatory.
Overall, the lyrics of “Curtains” symbolize the possibility of forgiveness and starting anew, even when it seems unreachable.
Line by Line Meaning
You might somehow be redeemed
There is a possibility of finding salvation despite the singer's doubts.
Even though your heathen days are long gone
Despite the singer previously living a non-religious or sinful lifestyle, it is still possible for them to find redemption.
And the need to be redeemed is such a boring thing to want
Wanting redemption is not exciting or desirable, but it is still necessary for inner peace.
Caved in, hibernating, waiting for the sun
Feeling lifeless, emotionally dormant, and waiting for something to awaken their spirit.
To come along and dry you out and hang you from a cloud
The artist is anticipating a spiritual awakening that will allow them to feel reinvigorated and lifted up. They are metaphorically comparing this awakening to hanging from a cloud.
Contributed by London F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.