Bassem Sabry
of Montreal Lyrics

Look at our electric guitars
The singer is drawing attention to their instruments, highlighting them as a symbol of creativity and artistic expression.

And, if not for the good people weeping
The singer acknowledges the importance of empathy and compassion in the world, suggesting that without these qualities, humanity would be lost.

All we'd hear is sounds of our horses dying
If people lacked empathy and compassion, they would be oblivious to the suffering of others and the world would be consumed by death and destruction (horses dying).

But I'm not 'bout to start crying about it
Despite recognizing the potential for despair and tragedy, the artist chooses to remain positive and take action to help others rather than dwell in sadness.

It must be fairly normal
The artist is introducing a new idea or observation, suggesting that what they are about to describe is a common occurrence.

To devolve into cycloptic brooding
The singer describes a negative mental state, characterized by pessimistic and obsessive thinking.

As the genocidal massacres you rubbed
The singer references atrocities that have been committed, possibly acknowledging a sense of guilt or complicity in these acts.

Over some perceived sedition
The massacres were likely carried out in response to suspected resistance or rebellion, regardless of whether or not it actually existed.

Insecurities of men messing everything up again
The artist references the recurring theme of male insecurity leading to disastrous consequences, suggesting a lack of progress in human relations and society.

(Oh, a show wrote in sparrow in the gales, only)
This line appears to be a non sequitur or an intentional divergence from the main theme, and its meaning is unclear.

I'll never follow no kind of master's voice
The singer expresses a rejection of authority or conformity, choosing instead to pursue their own path and thinking for themselves.

The mutinous tramp of cold voltage crucifixion is my conduit
The artist embraces an unconventional and rebellious approach to art or expression, seeing it as a way to challenge established norms and authority.

I just watched my hero fail
The singer is disillusioned by someone they previously admired or respected, recognizing their faults or shortcomings.

Now I'm in a dark and violent funk
The singer is experiencing a negative emotional state, possibly anger or depression, as a result of their disillusionment.

Every leader is a cellophane punk
The singer criticizes those in positions of power or authority, suggesting that they lack authenticity or substance and are easily transparent.

If you hear me say "yeah!" (Yeah!) "Yeah!" (Yeah!) "Yeah!" (Yeah!) "Yeah!" (Yeah!)
This repeated exclamation serves as a way to reaffirm the artist's rebellious and individualistic attitude, as well as to express enthusiasm or support for those who share it.

There must be a softer vision that you could kick to
The artist suggests that there is a more positive or hopeful perspective that others could adopt, even if they feel frustrated or disillusioned with current conditions.

In this aureate gloom, I assume
The singer describes a luxurious or rich atmosphere, while also acknowledging the presence of darkness or sadness.

Both sides are embarrassingly backwards in their thinking
The singer criticizes the simplistic or narrow views held by different groups, suggesting that neither side has a clear understanding of the situation.

Bearing no one to side with, none I want to defend
The artist expresses a sense of isolation or despair, feeling disconnected from others and uncertain about their beliefs or values.

(So the mute-minded search, silly in love)
This line appears to refer to the ambiguous or complex nature of the artist's emotional state, suggesting a combination of confusion, passion, and introspection.

People disappear on the wrong side of this revolution
The artist recognizes the risks associated with political change or social upheaval, acknowledging that some individuals may be lost or harmed in the process.

When they resurface, there's a black hole in their skull
The singer describes the physical and psychological damage that can result from trauma or violence, suggesting that those who survive may suffer from lasting effects.

When they'll return, all their childhood memories are dead
The artist suggests that trauma or violence can rob individuals of their sense of self or identity, causing them to lose touch with their past or their innermost selves.

I believe in witches
The singer embraces a sense of magic or wonder, possibly rejecting conventional beliefs or norms in favor of more imaginative or fantastical ideas.

I believe in you
The singer expresses faith or trust in another person, acknowledging their positive qualities and offering support or encouragement.

I believe in witches
The singer reiterates their sense of wonder or openness to unconventional ideas, celebrating the idea of magic or the unknown.

I believe in you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you, you
The artist emphasizes their support or admiration for the individual mentioned previously, possibly echoing the sentiment expressed in earlier lines.