The album is an amalgam of the music stylings of Aphex Twin and µ-ziq, complete with peculiar samples of jazz and of the human anatomy; "Upright Kangaroo" features a prominent sample of a belch as part of the beat. Familiar elements of both artists' works appear throughout; for example, "Winner Takes All" features a beat quite similar to that of "cow cud is a twin" from Aphex Twin's album ...I Care Because You Do, at a much faster tempo. According to Paradinas, the collaboration was partially inspired by James' unreleased Melodies from Mars project.
The album cover features Mike and Rich playing the game Downfall by Milton Bradley Company, designed as a parody of the original game's box art.
The caption on the cover similarly is written in the style of that on the MB game, and reads: "Cleverly manoeuvre your records onto the platters and then listen to the tracks in the right order to win! But watch out-the tracks are different on each side you could be helping your opponent instead of helping yourself!"
An unused track from the Mike & Rich sessions, "Brivert & Muons", was posted on the Planet Mu website around the time of the album's release, but is no longer available.
Waltz
Mike & Rich Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Where everything is new again
Like that morning in September
Can you remember when?
I told her she looked pretty
She reached out to hold my hand
In the days that followed after
We just stood there listening
It's good to be home
Well, I know things can change and sometimes get worse
cnd I know I haven't been the man you wanted
But hope still shines in the strangest of places
Like that day, do you remember when?
I can see it on the faces I pass on the streets
I can see it in their eyes
cnd this city has laughed and this city has cried
Tonight, it feels so alive
cnd it's good to be home
The lyrics of the song "Waltz in 4" by Mike & Rich depict the experience of traveling to New York City and the emotions associated with being in a new environment. The first verse sets the scene by describing the singer's journey to the bustling city and the sense of rejuvenation that comes with experiencing something new. The reference to "that morning in September" alludes to a significant moment in the past when something memorable happened. The lyrics create a sense of nostalgia and anticipation of revisiting that feeling.
The second verse touches upon a personal connection made in New York City. The singer compliments someone, telling her she looks pretty and she reciprocates by reaching out to hold their hand. This small gesture highlights a sense of intimacy and connection between two individuals in a foreign city. The following lines suggest that instead of exploring the city together, they choose to simply stand and listen, implying a shared appreciation for the surroundings and the atmosphere that surrounds them.
The chorus introduces the recurring theme of "home." While the singer is enjoying their time in New York City, they also acknowledge that change is inevitable and sometimes things can worsen. They express regret for not being the person their partner wanted them to be. However, amidst these uncertainties, there is still hope. The lyrics mention the ability of hope to shine in unexpected places, just as it did on a specific day in the past. This day is left open to interpretation, but it is significant enough to be remembered.
The final lines of the chorus capture the vibrant energy of the city. The singer observes the expressions and eyes of people passing by on the streets, witnessing the range of emotions that New York City encompasses. Despite any hardships or ups and downs, the city feels alive and the feeling of being home is expressed as comforting. It suggests a deep connection and sense of belonging, even in the midst of uncertainty and change.
Overall, "Waltz in 4" explores the simultaneous excitement and nostalgia associated with being in a new environment, finding a connection with someone amidst unfamiliarity, and ultimately finding solace and warmth in the chaos of a bustling city that feels like home.
Line by Line Meaning
Took a train to New York City
We traveled by train to the bustling city of New York, filled with excitement and new experiences.
Where everything is new again
In this vibrant city, everything feels fresh and rejuvenated, like a new beginning.
Like that morning in September
Similar to the feeling we had on a memorable September morning, a time filled with significance and nostalgia.
Can you remember when?
Can you recall the specific moment I'm referring to, as it holds sentimental value?
I told her she looked pretty
I complimented her appearance, acknowledging her beauty.
She reached out to hold my hand
In an intimate gesture, she extended her hand to mine, seeking connection and closeness.
In the days that followed after
During the subsequent days, we experienced the passage of time, yet remained in each other's company.
We just stood there listening
Together, we simply stood still, engaged in attentive listening to our surroundings, immersed in the present moment.
It's good to be home
Returning to a familiar environment brings a sense of comfort and contentment, acknowledging the inherent joy in being in a place we consider home.
Well, I know things can change and sometimes get worse
Although I understand that circumstances can shift unpredictably, leading to unfavorable outcomes at times.
And I know I haven't been the man you wanted
I am aware that my actions and behavior may not have lived up to your expectations or desires.
But hope still shines in the strangest of places
Despite challenges and disappointments, hope has a way of emerging unexpectedly, even in the most unconventional circumstances.
Like that day, do you remember when?
Similar to a specific day in our past, can you recall that particular moment filled with hope and possibility?
I can see it on the faces I pass on the streets
Observing the expressions of the people I encounter while walking down the streets, I detect a glimmer of hope in their eyes and demeanor.
I can see it in their eyes
Their eyes reveal the spark of hope, conveying a sense of optimism despite the challenges they may face.
And this city has laughed and this city has cried
This city has experienced both moments of joyous laughter and heartfelt sorrow, reflecting the range of emotions and experiences.
Tonight, it feels so alive
In this particular evening, the city radiates an energy and vibrancy that is undeniably captivating and invigorating.
And it's good to be home
Once again, emphasizing the happiness and contentment derived from returning to a place we call home.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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