No Angels

Bastille's 'No Angels' is a fascinating blend of social commentary and personal empowerment. The song is a cover and mashup of TLC's 'No Scrubs' and The xx's 'Angels,' creating a unique narrative that explores themes of self-worth and the rejection of mediocrity. The lyrics juxtapose the mundane responsibilities of daily life with the desire to avoid relationships with individuals who lack ambition and respect. The opening lines, which reference tending to cabins and running errands for a mother, set a tone of duty and routine, contrasting sharply with the later, more assertive rejection of 'scrubs'—men who are seen as unworthy of the singer's time and affection.

The term 'scrub' is used to describe a man who is lazy, unambitious, and often dependent on others, particularly his friends, for transportation and support. This imagery is vividly captured in the repeated lines about a scrub 'hangin' out the passenger side of his best friend's ride.' The singer's firm stance against engaging with such individuals is a powerful statement of self-respect and independence. The repeated refusals—'No, I don't want your number,' 'No, I don't want to give you mine'—emphasize a clear boundary, reinforcing the message that the singer values herself too much to settle for less.

Interwoven with these themes are snippets of dialogue from Alfred Hitchcock's 'Psycho,' adding a layer of psychological depth to the song. These lines, such as 'We're all in our private traps,' suggest a broader commentary on the human condition and the societal pressures that can trap individuals in unfulfilling roles or relationships. The dialogue serves as a haunting reminder of the consequences of not breaking free from these 'traps,' urging listeners to be mindful of their choices and the people they allow into their lives.