“I do believe that hip-hop can be the new jazz, and I’m helping create that”, Bruner said in an interview to Bass Player, in 2008.
He is part of the new generation of jazz literate, hip-hop loving instrumentalists who can play beyond traditional limits - a mutant jazz cat - and that’s how 'Thundercat' (a monicker he chose), suits him well (even if it’s purely the result of an unhealthy cartoon addiction dating back to childhood).
Hard Times
Thundercat Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Where's this cold, dark place?
This must be the end
Time to shed some skin
The moon brings high tide in
Rotting and wasting away
Transform this decaying flesh
Mom read the other living
In Thundercat's song "Hard Times," the lyrics paint a picture of a person going through a difficult time, feeling disconnected and isolated from their surroundings. The line "I can't feel my face" suggests that the person is emotionally numb and has lost touch with their own feelings. The phrase "Where's this cold, dark place?" could refer to depression or a sense of hopelessness.
The next line, "This must be the end," could suggest that the person is contemplating suicide or giving up on life in general. However, the next line, "Time to shed some skin," suggests that the person is at a turning point and is ready to let go of their past and transform themselves.
The mention of the moon bringing high tide in could be interpreted as a metaphor for the person's emotions rising and cresting like the waves of the ocean. The line "Rotting and wasting away" is a stark image of decay and decline, but the following line, "Transform this decaying flesh," suggests that the person is trying to find a way to rejuvenate themselves.
The final two lines, "Mom read the other living / God give me psyche on side," suggest that the person is seeking support and guidance from both their mother and a higher power. The mention of "psyche" could be interpreted as a reference to the Greek word for soul, suggesting that the person is looking for spiritual renewal and guidance.
Line by Line Meaning
I can't feel my face
I am numb to the pain and suffering I am experiencing
Where's this cold, dark place?
I am lost in a place of sadness and despair
This must be the end
I feel like I have hit rock bottom and there is no way out
Time to shed some skin
I need to let go of my past and start anew
The moon brings high tide in
Change is coming and it may be powerful and tumultuous
Rotting and wasting away
I feel like I am decaying and deteriorating
Transform this decaying flesh
I want to transform myself and become someone new
Mom read the other living
I am searching for guidance and support from my loved ones
God give me psyche on side
I am praying for mental strength and endurance to overcome my struggles
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: STEPHEN BRUNER, STEVEN D ELLISON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind