The band consists of singer-songwriter and guitarist Ted Leo, guitarist James Canty, bassist Marty 'Violence' Key, and drummer Chris Wilson. After his previous band, Chisel, broke up in the late 1990s, Ted recorded the Tej Leo(?) Rx Pharmacists [sic] album in 1999, followed by the Treble in Trouble EP in 2000.
His next album, 2001's The Tyranny of Distance, quickly gained him a cult following and critical praise. Dave Lerner and Chris Wilson became permanent members of the band during the tour that year, as did keyboard player Dorien Garry. James Canty (ex-Nation of Ulysses, Make-Up, etc.) also played with the band during this time.
The album Hearts of Oak followed in 2003, which also saw the release of the concert film Dirty Old Town and the Tell Balgeary, Balgury is Dead EP. Garry left the band before the recording of 2004's Shake the Sheets, which has led them into their current setup as a power trio. The new record featured fewer obscure references and more overt political content than his previous releases did, though his music has always been known for its engagement with politics.
The band tours extensively around North America. Leo is a strict vegan. His brother Chris Leo is also a singer/songwriter and a member of The Lapse. Ted Leo graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1994 with a degree in English.
Building Skyscrapers In The Basement
Ted Leo and the Pharmacists Lyrics
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and is there a time of night when she'll ever feel it's safe to dim the light?
i know some things i'd rather not,
like, the time ahead is all the time you've got.
and one other thing i know:
out from under layer after dark layer,
as the years go by, a little girl can grow.
The lyrics of the Ted Leo and The Pharmacists' song "Building Skyscrapers in the Basement" are a poignant reflection on the experiences of a little girl growing up, and the challenges and fears she might face as she navigates the world around her. The first verse asks two questions – is there a place where a little girl can be protected from the harsh realities of life, and is there a time when she'll feel safe enough to let down her guard? These questions highlight the vulnerability of young children, and the need for safe spaces and nurturing environments where they can thrive.
The second verse takes a more reflective tone, as the singer muses on some of the harsh realities of life that he'd rather not face. However, he also acknowledges that with time, a little girl can grow stronger and more resilient, able to overcome the challenges life throws her way. The metaphor of building skyscrapers in the basement suggests that strength and resilience are built gradually, brick by brick, foundation by foundation. Despite the difficulties that might come her way, the little girl can continue to grow and reach for the skies.
Overall, "Building Skyscrapers in the Basement" is a touching tribute to the resilience of young people, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and progress are possible. It's a song that speaks to the challenges and fears we all face as we try to build a better world, and the importance of creating safe, nurturing environments where young people can thrive and grow.
Line by Line Meaning
is there a place to go where a little girl might never have to know?
Is there a refuge or sanctuary where a young girl won't have to learn the harsh realities of the world?
and is there a time of night when she'll ever feel it's safe to dim the light?
Will there ever be a time when she feels secure enough to let darkness take over?
i know some things i'd rather not,
I am aware of some unpleasant truths that I would prefer to ignore.
like, the time ahead is all the time you've got.
The future consists of the time that remains, which is limited.
and one other thing i know:
Additionally, there is something else that I am aware of:
out from under layer after dark layer,
Over time, one can shed layers of darkness and difficulty,
as the years go by, a little girl can grow.
As time passes, a young girl can mature and overcome the challenges she faces.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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