Aberdeen

Avi Kaplan's song 'Aberdeen' is a heartfelt ode to a place that holds deep emotional and spiritual significance for the narrator. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a location named Aberdeen, which is symbolically tied to the buffalo, suggesting a connection to nature and perhaps a simpler, more grounded way of life. This place is described as a sanctuary that 'filled me up and eased my pain,' indicating that it offers solace and healing, much like a spiritual retreat. The mention of it washing the soul 'without the rain' implies a cleansing that is profound and internal, not dependent on external circumstances.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the strong pull that Aberdeen has on the narrator. The repeated line 'You've been calling to me' suggests a deep, almost magnetic attraction to this place. The imagery of a 'cool summer breeze' and 'old evergreens' evokes a sense of timelessness and tranquility, making Aberdeen the ideal place for the narrator to 'rest my weary bones.' This phrase indicates a need for rest and rejuvenation, hinting at the narrator's exhaustion from life's trials and tribulations.

In the second verse, the narrator expresses a desire to 'free my heart' and 'clear my mind,' further emphasizing the need for emotional and mental liberation. The reference to 'sage and stone' beneath the stars adds a mystical element, suggesting that Aberdeen is not just a physical place but also a spiritual haven. The song concludes with a reaffirmation of Aberdeen as the 'only place to rest my weary bones,' solidifying its role as a sanctuary for the soul. Avi Kaplan's rich, deep voice adds an extra layer of emotional depth to the song, making it a poignant reflection on the need for a place of refuge and healing in our lives.