After The Disco

Broken Bells' song 'After The Disco' delves into the fleeting nature of glamour and the disillusionment that often follows moments of superficial excitement. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the aftermath of a night out, where the initial allure and shine of the disco fade away, leaving behind a sense of emptiness and disconnection. The song opens with a sense of betrayal and loss of faith, suggesting that the protagonist's expectations have been shattered, leading them to seek solace in the temporary distractions of nightlife.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'Oh oh oh oh' and the lines 'Do what you want, do what you will,' emphasizes a sense of resignation and acceptance of the transient nature of these experiences. The protagonist acknowledges that despite the fleeting joy, they are left waiting and longing for something more substantial. The imagery of 'ashes on the ground' and 'the world is burning down' further underscores the theme of disillusionment, hinting at a broader sense of societal decay and the hollowness of chasing after ephemeral pleasures.

The song also explores themes of unrequited love and the complexities of relationships. The protagonist feels trapped in a 'winding maze of love,' where efforts to connect seem futile and lead nowhere. The line 'I'm not the dreamer or the dream you're out there looking for' highlights a sense of misalignment and unfulfilled desires. Ultimately, 'After The Disco' is a poignant reflection on the search for meaning and connection in a world that often prioritizes surface-level thrills over deeper, more enduring values.