Their songs are notable for their male/female vocal harmony, shifting rhythms, and quirky song structure- most tracks are composed of multiple distinct, almost disjointed movements. Both members sing with great intensity, often in the upper ranges of their voices, and often sing different (yet complementary) melodies simultaneously. Tempos are nearly always fast, with beats often resembling those found in electronic club or dance music.
The main instruments used by the band are drums and electric organ. Although both members started out playing the guitar, they found they ended up fooling around with the organ and drums in their practice space more often than with more traditional instruments.
The band recorded one album on Omnibus Records before moving to Polyvinyl Record Company for their second and third full-lengths. They have also released five 7-inch singles and two EPs. In December 2005, the band signed with Barsuk and since have released an album entitled Bring It Back. In May 2008, they released the album Re-Arrange Us.
Roller Coaster Ride
Mates of State Lyrics
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Beside the light that's getting in my eyes, a rollercoaster ride
Independence wasn't won with a single pellet gun
I just wanna have some fun tonight, and not get in a fight, a rollercoaster ride
Beside the light that's getting in my eyes a rollercoaster ride
Independence wasn't won with a single pellet gun
The lyrics to Mates of State's "Roller Coaster Ride" embody a sense of freedom and reckless abandon, much like the exhilarating journey of a roller coaster ride. The opening line, "If I should cry I know I'd be inside a roller coaster ride," suggests that the singer is willing to take risks and experience the ups and downs of life, even if it means feeling vulnerable and exposed. Similarly, the line "Beside the light that's getting in my eyes, a roller coaster ride" could be interpreted as a metaphor for the blinding, disorienting nature of pursuing new experiences.
The second verse, "Independence wasn't won with a single pellet gun," suggests that the singer recognizes the value of hard work and perseverance, a sentiment that could be applied to both personal struggles and larger societal issues. Despite this, the chorus once again emphasizes the desire for carefree enjoyment, stating "I just wanna have some fun tonight, and not get in a fight, a roller coaster ride." Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of excitement and spontaneity, encouraging the listener to embrace adventure and take risks in pursuit of happiness.
Line by Line Meaning
If I should cry I know I'd be inside a rollercoaster ride
I feel like my emotions are on a wild journey, like being on a rollercoaster ride, and if I cry it will just add to the chaos.
Beside the light that's getting in my eyes, a rollercoaster ride
The bright lights are overwhelming me and adding to the already chaotic feeling of being on a rollercoaster ride.
Independence wasn't won with a single pellet gun
Success and freedom don't come easily, they require hard work and dedication, similar to the efforts needed to win independence from a ruling power.
I just wanna have some fun tonight, and not get in a fight, a rollercoaster ride
I just want to enjoy myself and have a good time without any trouble, similar to the ups and downs of a rollercoaster ride.
Beside the light that's getting in my eyes a rollercoaster ride
The bright lights continue to add to the chaotic feeling of being on a rollercoaster ride.
Independence wasn't won with a single pellet gun
Success and freedom require more effort and dedication than just one simple action, like shooting a pellet gun.
I just wanna have some fun
I want to enjoy myself and not worry about any problems or stress.
Contributed by Alexandra I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.