The original members were Richard Fielding and Andrew Wright, and were soon joined by Tom Ellard. This later changed to Garry Bradbury, Paul Deering, and Tom Ellard; Ellard has been the only one to remain throughout the group's career, with changing lineups throughout its two and a half decades of existence, later working mainly with Stephen Jones. Robert Racic was an integral part of the band during the late eighties/early nineties.
Severed Heads performed a final concert in Sydney in January 2010. Tom Ellard uploaded a farewell video of Sevs in Space to Youtube, which may be considered as a requiem of sorts.
In early 2008, Ellard added the following text to the bottom of the official site's front page, "Severed Heads do not have a MySpace page. It is a fake. The band is dead,". (www.sevcom.com).
Tiny Wounded Bird
Severed Heads Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
seeking respect
repairs to home
Foundling aspect
The lyrics of the song "Tiny Wounded Bird" by Severed Heads is a metaphorical reflection of the fragility and vulnerability of human existence. The image of a tiny bird with a wounded wing seeking respect is a portrayal of the human condition. We are all seeking a sense of dignity and validation in life, despite our limitations or imperfections. The bird repairing to its home and having a foundling aspect suggests that even though we may feel inadequate or incomplete, we all have a place of belonging and purpose in the world.
Musically, the song creates a haunting atmosphere through its eerie, repetitive sounds and sparse instrumentation. The minimalistic approach of the music parallels the minimalistic imagery of the lyrics, emphasizing the essential themes of the song. The song's overall effect is melancholic, but it also offers a sense of hope and resilience, as the bird's tenacity in seeking respect implies.
Line by Line Meaning
Tiny wounded bird
A small and injured bird that is lost and helpless.
seeking respect
Desiring to be treated with dignity and appreciation.
repairs to home
Attempts to restore one's comfort and stability in their surroundings.
Foundling aspect
Reminiscent of a helpless orphan, reflecting a sense of vulnerability and the need for protection.
Contributed by William J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.