Bicycle
Memory Tapes Lyrics


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I'm in love with you, little sister
We ride home in the night
While under our feet, the rain paints the street with the stars
Passing cars with light trails behind them
We could follow them on
Giving this town is wearing me down
Lets take off
No one would know that we've gone




Overall Meaning

The lyrics of “Bicycle” by Memory Tapes narrate a story about two siblings riding their bicycles late at night. Despite the pouring rain, the singer, who is the older sibling, feels an overwhelming love for their younger sister as they pedal home. The rain reflects the streetlights, creating a star-like illusion that adds to the magical atmosphere of their ride. As they pass by cars, the headlights blur like streaks of light, creating a trail behind them. The idea of following these trails stimulates their imagination, leading them to contemplate leaving the town and starting anew.


The song's title is a clear reference to bicycles, but its lyrics invite us to appreciate the innocence and wonder of childhood through a nostalgic lens. The singer’s love for their sister, coupled with the night adventure, emphasize the freedom, adventure, and possibility that can be found outside the confines of society's norms. As they escape the town, they yearn to leave behind their current stresses and start a new life full of excitement and adventure. The song invokes a sense of freedom, agency, and pure joy that can only come from evening bike rides with someone you love.


Line by Line Meaning

I'm in love with you, little sister
I have a strong emotional connection with you, my younger sibling.


We ride home in the night
We journey together during the evening hours.


While under our feet, the rain paints the street with the stars
As we walk, the raindrops create a visual scene resembling celestial bodies on the pavement.


Passing cars with light trails behind them
Automobiles move quickly with a glowing aura in their wake.


We could follow them on
We have the option to trail behind and follow their path.


Giving this town is wearing me down
The environment of this town is draining me.


Lets take off
Let us depart from this place.


No one would know that we've gone
Our absence would go unnoticed by others.




Contributed by Charlie T. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

@xofam707

I get such a trippy nostalgia with this song!
I remember 4-5 years back, I used to lay down in my bed, close my eyes and play this song. Then I would just look into the patterns my eyes were forming in the dark when closed and I would try to imagine and see something further more than just those irregular patterns.
That had my mind in a completely different and peaceful state!

@beijoso

Cool song, first it's its own funky thing and then suddenly at 3:18 WOW it's a gorgeous homage to New Order. Love it.

@JH-wx7go

It's the NO + gospel vocals combo that makes that outro so memorable. This song's a classic.

@chiaweikuo8598

when the beat from 3:22 started, I instantly save this song and felt in love with it afterward

@jjjjermie

same, it makes everything feels bliss

@onometre

I wish the whole song were that part

@oscara.chavez7784

2021, just discovered this tune. I'm a New Order Fan. Tons of gosepums during the instrumental part, almost to the point of tears. This reminds me of classic New Order and Hooky's solos.

@markjohleo

So I’m not the only one…

@burritogamer3984

one of those songs that just makes me immensely happy each time I listen to it

@nuffzed2001

tears of joy for the flourish at the end

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