While many groups that mix reggae with rock go for the laid-back vibes and … Read Full Bio ↴While many groups that mix reggae with rock go for the laid-back vibes and represent the permanent vacation lifestyle, the Savannah, Georgia-based Passafire prefer a more punchy, punky, and progressive version of reggae-rock. Formed in 2003 with the Savannah College of Art and Design as their home base, the four-piece launched their career through rigorous touring and a self-titled, self-released album that appeared in 2006. Two years later, they signed with fellow rock-reggae group Pepper's imprint LAW and released their sophomore effort, Submersible, with Everyone on Everynight following on the label in 2009. With guidance from the people at LAW, Passafire formed their own imprint, Flame Guy Records, and released their fourth album, the Paul Leary-produced Start from Scratch, in 2011. Life on their own didn't last long as Easy Star Records signed the group in 2012. Their album Vines appeared on the label a year later, debuting at number one on the Billboard Reggae Chart.

Unfamiliar
Passafire Lyrics

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I want to make it into something bigger than it is, I don't mind
Just don't waste my time

I want to take it to the top and throw it over the ridge
Let it fly into the light, goodbye

In time you realize it's already been done
Sometimes you recognize some places or someone

Just don't waste my time

Well it's not who you thought it was
Unfamiliar
But you've got what you've got
It leaves me bewildered
With every turn of your gears
Years and years go by
We dare ask why

In time you realize it's already been done
Sometimes you recognize some places or someone
Just don't waste my time

(guitar solo)

I want to make it into something big but what is this
Unfamiliar
But you've got what you've got
Leaves them bewildered
And I don't care if it is

Unfamiliar
Just don't waste my time

Overall Meaning

The song "Unfamiliar" by Passafire is a reflection on the desire for success and recognition in life, but also the frustration that comes with it. The lyrics express the desire to make something big and important, but also the fear of wasting time and effort on something that might not amount to anything. The second stanza introduces the idea that sometimes, despite our best efforts, what we strive for has already been done by others or does not meet our expectations. The line "It's not who you thought it was" suggests that the reality of the situation may not match our initial hopes and assumptions. The song also touches on the passage of time and the existential question of "why" we strive for something that may ultimately be unfulfilling.

The chorus of the song repeats the word "unfamiliar," which can have multiple meanings. On one hand, it could be referring to the uncertainty of the future and the unknown path ahead. On the other hand, it could signify a sense of detachment or distance from one's goals and desires. The guitar solo in the middle of the song provides a moment of contemplation and reflection, allowing the listener to process the emotions and themes presented throughout the lyrics.

Overall, "Unfamiliar" is a thought-provoking song that speaks to the universal desire for success and recognition, but also the fear of failure and disappointment that comes with it.

Line by Line Meaning

I want to make it into something bigger than it is, I don't mind
The singer desires to elevate and highlight a subject but is indifferent towards challenges.

Just don't waste my time
The singer prefers efficient usage of their available time.

I want to take it to the top and throw it over the ridge
The singer aims to elevate something's status or significance and let it fly into the world.

Let it fly into the light, goodbye
The artist intends to release their subject into the world and leave it behind them.

In time you realize it's already been done
Over time, a person may realize that their actions or goals have already been completed by others.

Sometimes you recognize some places or someone
Occasionally, individuals may resonate or connect with their surroundings or other people.

Well it's not who you thought it was
The subject is not the person or thing the singer initially perceived it to be.

Unfamiliar
The subject or situation is unknown, new, or not previously experienced.

But you've got what you've got
Despite the unfamiliarity, the artist acknowledges the current state and possessions of their subject.

It leaves me bewildered
The unfamiliarity of the subject leaves the artist feeling confused or overwhelmed.

With every turn of your gears
The subject's progression or development is constantly evolving and changing.

Years and years go by
Considerable time passes as the subject evolves.

We dare ask why
The singer questions the motives and reasons behind the subject's progression.

I want to make it into something big but what is this
The singer is still motivated to turn their subject into something significant, but is questioning the subject's nature or purpose.

Leaves them bewildered
The unfamiliar nature of the subject may also leave others feeling perplexed or confused.

And I don't care if it is
The artist is devoted to their subject, regardless of its unfamiliarity.

Just don't waste my time
The artist reiterates their preference for time efficiency and productivity.

(guitar solo)
Instrumental section of the song with no lyrics.

Contributed by Evan B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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