Matt Quinn and Sam Cooper first met in high school in Philadelphia and later reconnected in Los Angeles in 2016. Their shared love for music led them to collaborate once again. They named the project after a mountain in Valley Forge National Park near their hometown. Their debut single, "Astrovan," gained rapid streaming success, attracting the attention of drummer Sotiris Eliopoulos and keyboardist Jackie Miclau.
The band made their debut in 2016 with the release of their single "Astrovan," which was recorded in Los Angeles by Quinn, Cooper, and Byrnes.
In 2017, Mt. Joy signed with Dualtone Records, further solidifying their presence in the music industry. This was followed by the release of three singles in 2017: "Sheep," "Cardinal," and "Silver Lining," with the latter reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Triple A charts.
Throughout 2017, the now five-piece band recorded additional tracks with producer Jon Gilbert at his home studio in Pasadena, California, and released their self-titled debut album, Mt. Joy, on March 2, 2018. The song "Silver Lining" went to #1 on the Billboard Triple A charts.
Following their initial success, Mt. Joy embarked on extensive touring, performing at festivals such as Bonnaroo, Newport Folk Festival, and Lollapalooza, while also opening for notable bands like The Head and the Heart, The Shins, Whitney, and The Revivalists. They also headlined their own North American and European tours.
Unfortunately, their tour with The Lumineers was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, Mt. Joy released their second studio album, "Rearrange Us," on June 5, 2020. The album was produced by Tucker Martine, known for his work with My Morning Jacket and Modest Mouse. The songs on "Rearrange Us" range from folk-stomps to psychedelic reflections and gospel elegies.
In April 2022, the band announced their third full-length album, Orange Blood, which was released on June 17, 2022. The album was recorded at Headroom Studios in Philadelphia. Four singles were released ahead of the album, "Lemon Tree", "Orange Blood," "Evergreen," and "Bathroom Light." Their headlining tour for the album started in June 2022 and runs through November 2022.
Acrobats
Mt. Joy Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴
Graceful when we talk trash
So no one knows we want it back
We live like Christmas on credit cards
It's always Christmas where you are
Look alive, don't hurt yourself, touch your body
Realize your surroundings
'Cause no one is dying soon
Are you not worried, are you not worried
'Cause we don't have to lie like them
We're all already lost
Do whatever you want and I'll roll over
Do whatever you want
The opening lines of "Acrobats" by Mt. Joy set the scene for a relationship that is filled with contradictions and hidden desires. The "amicable acrobats high above the aftermath" suggests a sense of playfulness and ease, but there is a hint of tension and disguise beneath the surface. They are skilled at gracefully talking trash, yet secretly longing for what they have lost. It seems they are maintaining a facade to shield their vulnerability.
The lines "We live like Christmas on credit cards, it's always Christmas where you are" further emphasize the notion of pretending and living beyond their means. They are indulging in temporary happiness, perhaps fueled by material possessions and instant gratification. The reference to Christmas implies an atmosphere of celebration and abundance, but the mention of credit cards suggests that their happiness is not genuine or sustainable.
The next set of lyrics encourages the listener to be alert and present in their own body and surroundings. "Look alive, don't hurt yourself, touch your body, realize your surroundings, count five things in the room" urges one to pay attention and appreciate their immediate environment. The mention of no one dying soon may be a reminder that in the grand scheme of things, life isn't as dire as we sometimes perceive it to be. It suggests that there is still time to enjoy and experience life before it slips away.
The chorus asks if the listener is not worried. It suggests that there is no need to conform and lie like others. By acknowledging that they are already lost, the song communicates a sense of acceptance and freedom. It presents a perspective that challenges societal norms and expectations, encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves and do whatever they want without fear or judgment.
The closing line, "Do whatever you want and I'll roll over, do whatever you want" reinforces the idea of freedom and allowing oneself to be vulnerable. It suggests a willingness to go along with whatever the other person desires, indicating a deep level of trust and surrender within the relationship. It may also hint at a desire for connection and intimacy, as though being with the other person is more important than personal desires or outcomes.
In summary, "Acrobats" delves into the complexities of relationships, the facades we often put up, and the desire to break free from societal norms. It encourages listeners to embrace their true selves, appreciate the present moment, and find solace in the vulnerability that comes with genuine connection.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Matthew Quinn, Sam Cooper
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@constanceevergreen7267
This is really good - definitely gonna have to check out some other stuff by these guys!