Volume

Caribou's song 'Volume' is a hypnotic and repetitive anthem that delves into themes of change, longing, and self-reliance. The phrase 'Pump up the volume' serves as a metaphor for amplifying one's voice, presence, or emotions. This repetition creates a sense of urgency and insistence, suggesting that the speaker is on the brink of a significant transformation. The line 'And I know it's got to change' reinforces this idea, indicating an awareness that something in the speaker's life needs to shift, whether it be a personal situation, a relationship, or an internal state of mind.

The lyrics also touch on themes of waiting and longing, as seen in the lines 'I've been waiting for somebody.' This suggests a sense of anticipation and perhaps a feeling of incompleteness or loneliness. The repetition of this line, coupled with the command to 'Pump up the volume,' implies that the speaker is seeking a way to fill a void or to make a connection that has been missing. The song's structure, with its cyclical repetition, mirrors the repetitive nature of waiting and the desire for change.

Additionally, the song explores the theme of self-reliance. The lines 'Because since you've been gone / And I've been alone / I can get by on my own' indicate a journey towards independence. Despite the longing for 'somebody,' the speaker acknowledges their ability to stand alone and navigate life independently. This duality of longing for connection while embracing self-sufficiency adds depth to the song's narrative, making it a compelling exploration of human emotions and the complexities of change.