The New Zealand rock band have released three albums - 2004's platinum selling 'You Are Here', 2007's multi-platinum selling 'Second Hand Planet', and 2010's 'Until The End Of Time'.
Opshop were winners of the coveted 'Peoples Choice Award' at the 2007 New Zealand Music Awards. Also in 2007 their single “Maybe” achieved the honour of being the biggest song at New Zealand radio ever, holding the #1 most-played spot for 12 consecutive weeks.
Opshop describe their sound like this: "An equal opportunistic grab bag of semi-funkster pop and crackle 'muesli' rock. We like playing music that sounds nice and loud. And dirty and quiet and every nook 'n' cranny in between. If you're not sure what it is. Its likely to be ours".
Helpless
Opshop Lyrics
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Come gather ‘round but ignore all the gossip
You know you're welcome around here whenever you like
Whenever you like
Did I mention that the ocean gives us
Every second breath
Don't sigh
[Chorus]
‘Cause I can see it happenin'
We can hear it happenin' to us
So why do we feel so - helpless
We see it on the faces of the mothers and fathers
I can't help but make meaning everyday
Oh what would you say, oh
Where's my grief
Who are my angels
Not a day goes by I don't wonder to whom should I pray
Maybe it's the priest in the flames
And I can see it happenin'
We can hear it happenin' to us
So why do we feel so helpless
We can see it happenin'
We all know it's happenin' to us
Oh-woah…
[Music]
So - come gather around
Just one more time
I need to see your faith again
So come gather around
For just one more time
I need to see your
See your
I need to see your
Face again
The opening lines of Opshop's Helpless urge listeners to ignore the rumors and gather around, expressing a sense of community and inclusivity. The following line about the ocean providing every second breath highlights the interconnectedness and reliance of humanity on nature. The chorus repeats the phrase "we can see it happenin'" to emphasize the inevitability of societal issues and injustices, yet the lyrics also express a sense of helplessness despite this awareness. The second verse talks about the search for meaning and spiritual guidance in times of grief and questioning, with the possibility that even the priest is not exempt from the flames of suffering.
The music serves to complement the introspective and reflective lyrics of Helpless. The somber melody and slow tempo of the song reflect the melancholy mood of the lyrics, adding to the sense of contemplation and thoughtfulness. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the themes of inevitability and helplessness, while the bridge section featuring a build-up of drums and guitar creates a moment of tension and anticipation before the final chorus. The final refrain ends on a hopeful note, calling for unity and faith in the face of these challenges.
Line by Line Meaning
Come gather ‘round but ignore all the gossip
Come together without paying attention to hearsays or rumors.
You know you're welcome around here whenever you like
You are always welcome in this place without any restrictions or qualifications.
Did I mention that the ocean gives us
I reminded you that the ocean provides for us.
Every second breath
It is critical to our existence and well-being.
So please don't sigh
Don't express disappointment, frustration, or anxiety.
‘Cause I can see it happenin'
I observe the events taking place.
We can hear it happenin' to us
We are experiencing it ourselves through our senses.
So why do we feel so - helpless
Despite being aware and involved, we feel powerless to change the situation.
We see it on the faces of the mothers and fathers
It is evident on the expression of the parents.
I can't help but make meaning everyday
I cannot avoid interpreting or finding significance in events or experiences every day.
Oh what would you say, oh
What is your reaction, opinion or suggestion?
Where's my grief
Where can I find comfort or solace from my anguish or distress?
Who are my angels
Who are my helpers, protectors or supporters?
Not a day goes by I don't wonder to whom should I pray
Every day, I question whom I should appeal or communicate to for guidance or aid.
Maybe it's the priest in the flames
Perhaps it is the religious leader that is tested or challenged.
We all know it's happenin' to us
We all acknowledge and recognize that the events are affecting us.
So - come gather around
Please assemble together.
Just one more time
One final occasion, perhaps the final chance.
I need to see your faith again
I need to observe your trust or confidence in something or somebody one more time.
I need to see your Face again
I need to see your countenance, especially your eyes or expression, again.
Contributed by Grayson O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.