Otzeki are Mike and Joel, two cousins based in London whose sound is best d… Read Full Bio ↴Otzeki are Mike and Joel, two cousins based in London whose sound is best described as electronic dance rock.

Rory McKeown on album 'Now Is a Long Time':
"Otzeki - the project of cousins Mike Sharp and Joel Roberts - was born after a semi drunken jam on a partly functioning Yamaha AN200 drum machine and a Fender Jaguar guitar. Taking their name from a misremembered Russian author, their blend of carefully sourced electronics, luscious electric guitar and falsetto vocals has been the longstanding formula of the project which has seen them tour Europe, UK and USA. Vigorously awakening crowds to their contoured sound they are able to create an almost deadly, definitely dangerous live energy..

- The title of electronic-punk duo Otzeki’s new album couldn’t be more pertinent for these strange times.

Inspired by the Truisms of artist Jenny Holzer, the message "Now is a Long Time" was written on a piece of paper and pinned above Mike Sharp’s bed at his Finsbury Park pad as he, along with cousin Joel Roberts, were writing the follow up to 2018’s debut record Binary Childhood.

The message stuck and became the name for album two, culminating in the band spray painting the words across a billboard in Waterloo for its striking album artwork. The statement remained there for four weeks before being painted over.

Mostly written on a laptop on the move, Now is a Long Time saw Otzeki embrace a quicker, more “instantaneous” writing process, resulting in a unique, infectious, and sonically-sprawling electronic effort, including the huge singles Max Wells-Demon and Sweet Sunshine."

Sweet Sunshine
Otzeki Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

if you do as she tells you
there'll be no more excuses
put your money where your mouth it
and be sure to make it home on time
sweet sunshine
she blows your mind
in the morning light
by the window side

how can you deny?
that sweet sunshine
with a love so fine
she blows your mind
remember she's got the power
she'll be killing you softly
just read the print on her t-shirt
man that slogan will send you blind
sweet sunshine
she blows your mind
in the morning light
by the window side
how can you deny?
that sweet sunshine
with a love so fine
she blows your mind
sweet sunshine

she blows your mind
in the morning light
by the window side
how can you deny?
that sweet sunshine

with a love so fine
she blows your mind

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Otzeki's song "Sweet Sunshine" paint a vivid picture of a mesmerizing and powerful woman who captivates and controls the singer. The opening lines suggest a sense of instruction or direction from this woman, emphasizing the need to act accordingly and fulfill obligations without making excuses. This sets the tone for a dynamic relationship where the woman holds authority and influence over the singer.

The repeated imagery of "sweet sunshine" symbolizes the woman's radiant and irresistible charm, capable of brightening even the darkest moments. She is described as someone who can "blow your mind" with her presence, implying a profound impact on the singer's thoughts and emotions. The reference to making it home on time suggests a sense of responsibility or obligation towards this woman, highlighting the importance of meeting her expectations.

The mention of the woman's power and ability to "kill you softly" adds a layer of complexity to her character, suggesting a seductive and potentially manipulative nature. The line about reading the slogan on her t-shirt further emphasizes the idea of her influence, implying that even something as simple as a printed message on her clothing can have a strong effect on the singer.

Overall, the lyrics of "Sweet Sunshine" depict a captivating and enigmatic figure who exerts control over the singer through her charisma and presence. The repeated refrain of her ability to "blow your mind" reinforces the idea of her overwhelming impact, while also highlighting the allure and intensity of the relationship between the singer and this mysterious woman.

Line by Line Meaning

if you do as she tells you
If you follow her instructions

there'll be no more excuses
you won't have any more reasons

put your money where your mouth is
show through actions, not just words

and be sure to make it home on time
ensure you arrive home punctually

sweet sunshine
pleasant warmth and brightness

she blows your mind
she amazes and astounds you

in the morning light
during the early daylight

by the window side
next to the window

how can you deny?
how could you refuse?

with a love so fine
with an exceptional affection

she blows your mind
she dazzles and astonishes you