Bloodflood, Pt. II

Alt-J's 'Bloodflood, Pt. II' is a complex tapestry of emotions and political commentary, woven together with the band's signature cryptic lyrics and haunting melodies. The song opens with vivid imagery of 'heat shimmer' and 'hips quiver,' setting a scene of intense physical and emotional sensation. These lines evoke a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion, hinting at a deeper, more tumultuous undercurrent that runs throughout the song.

The repeated reference to 'C-O-double M-O-N' and the 'Mandela boys' who 'soon become Mandela men' introduces a political dimension. This could be interpreted as a nod to the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa, with Nelson Mandela symbolizing the fight for justice and equality. The mention of 'razor blades on a melted toothbrush' and 'assassin de la police' adds a layer of violence and resistance, suggesting a world where the fight for freedom is fraught with danger and sacrifice.

The chorus, with its repeated line 'a flood of blood to the heart,' serves as a powerful metaphor for overwhelming emotion and passion. This flood could represent both the intensity of personal relationships and the collective struggle for political change. The final verses reveal a personal conflict, with the narrator admitting their love and willingness to lie and wait for the object of their affection. This duality of personal and political themes makes 'Bloodflood, Pt. II' a rich and multifaceted song, reflecting Alt-J's ability to blend introspective lyrics with broader social commentary.