Baby's Got A Brand New Second Hand Disguise
The Fratellis Lyrics

The Fratellis's song "Baby's Got a Brand New Second Hand Disguise" seems to be about someone with a lot of issues and baggage, who is trying to hide it all behind a facade or disguise. The singer seems to be calling this person out for their phoniness and lack of authenticity. Throughout the song, the lyrics use vivid imagery to express the singer's frustration and confusion, as well as their desire for something more genuine and real.

The first verse starts off with the singer telling the subject of the song to stop talking until they have something meaningful to say. The subject is described as being like white noise and soft sandals, suggesting they are insubstantial and flimsy. The second line suggests that the subject has been conformed to the expectations of others before they even met the singer - this person isn't really themselves at all. The last line of the verse seems to suggest that the subject has something to offer, possibly something valuable, but it's hidden behind all their uniformed facade.

The chorus consists of a repeated refrain of "La la la," suggesting that the subject is not giving the singer anything concrete to work with. The second verse again suggests that the singer is uncomfortable around the subject and unsure of how to proceed. There is a hint of desperation in the line "Or you could sing a Waltzing Matilda instead," as if the singer is grasping at straws trying to find a way to connect with this person. The line "I'd still be here waiting when you come around" suggests that the singer is willing to put in the effort to make a connection, but they need some kind of sign or indication from the subject that it's worth it.

The final verse describes the subject as being simple, cynical, and kind, which seems to be a contradiction in terms. Again, there is a sense that the subject is hiding their true self behind a facade. The line "I would help you out but my pockets would freeze" suggests that the singer is not just looking for emotional connection, but also for material or monetary gain. The final line, "Baby's got a brand new second hand disguise" reinforces the idea that this person is not being genuine or authentic, and that their facade is just a cheap imitation of something better.

Overall, the song seems to be a critique of phoniness, conformity, and lack of authenticity, and a call for more genuine and real connections between people.