After a brief run as a recording-only project based in Austin, founding vocalist David Yow, bassist David Wm. Sims and guitarist Duane Denison relocated to Chicago, Illinois in 1989, finding kindred spirits in recording engineer Steve Albini and the Touch and Go Records imprint. With the addition of drummer Mac McNeilly, they began operating as a live band, expanding their following beyond Chicago's alternative scene into an international audience. Drummer Jim Kimball replaced McNeilly late in 1996, and was himself replaced by Brendan Murphy two years later.
Despite releasing a split single with leading alt-rockers Nirvana and signing to Capitol Records, the band failed to find commercial success amid the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s, and disbanded in 1999. Their reunion from 2008 to 2010 and following tour enjoyed positive responses from audiences and critics.
In October 2013, The Jesus Lizard were set to play at the All Tomorrow's Parties event Release the Bats in Melbourne, Australia. They cancelled this show due to "unforeseen circumstances."
Members:
David Yow - vocals;
Duane Denison - guitars;
David Wm. Sims - bass;
Mac McNeilly - drums.
Former members:
Jim Kimball - drums;
Brendan Murphy - drums.
http://www.thejesuslizard.net
Pervertedly Slow
The Jesus Lizard Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
So I'll figure it out in a slow and jagged way
Those friends of mine were always glad to help me through
Can you tell me where it hurts the most?
Right here
Getting undressed in the window
Getting undressed in the window
The Jesus Lizard's song "Pervertedly Slow" is a haunting and disorienting exploration of trauma and self-examination. The opening lines immediately set the stage for the song's mood: the singer is isolated and removed from his surroundings, unmoored in space and time. The subsequent lines reflect a struggle to make sense of this distance and a willingness to take the necessary time to sort things out, even if it's slow and painful. The repeated question, "Can you tell me where it hurts the most?" hints at a deep and lingering pain that is difficult to locate or articulate.
As the song progresses, we start to get a sense of what might be at the root of this pain. The line "Getting undressed in the window" suggests a vulnerability and exposure that feels uncomfortable or even shameful. This could be read as a metaphor for emotional nakedness, a willingness to reveal oneself to others despite the fear and anxiety it might provoke. Ultimately, the song seems to be grappling with the difficulty of confronting one's own darkness and finding a way to move forward despite the weight of past traumas.
Line by Line Meaning
I situated myself here about a thousand miles ago
I arrived at this point a long time ago and have since become settled in my current situation.
So I'll figure it out in a slow and jagged way
I'm going to take my time figuring things out, even if it's not the most direct or easy path.
Those friends of mine were always glad to help me through
My friends were always willing to lend a hand or provide support when I needed it.
Can you tell me where it hurts the most?
Can you pinpoint the source of my pain or discomfort?
Right here
The pain or discomfort is located here, in this particular spot.
Getting undressed in the window
Engaging in an exhibitionistic act by undressing in front of a window.
Getting undressed in the window
Engaging in an exhibitionistic act by undressing in front of a window.
Contributed by Landon I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.