Velvet

Catfish and the Bottlemen's song 'Velvet' delves into the intricate dynamics of desire, attraction, and the often complicated nature of human relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is both alluring and enigmatic, someone who knows how to captivate and manipulate those around her. The song's protagonist is drawn to her, despite—or perhaps because of—her unpredictable and multifaceted personality. This woman is described as someone who can effortlessly switch personas, making it difficult for others to truly know her. This complexity adds to her allure, making her even more irresistible.

The song also explores the idea of superficial connections and the lengths people go to in order to feel desired. The woman in the song has a 'dumb tattoo' on her wrist, a symbol of her willingness to go to extremes to prove something, perhaps to herself or to others. This tattoo serves as a metaphor for the superficial markers people often use to define themselves or to attract attention. The protagonist is aware of these superficialities but is still drawn to her, indicating a deeper, perhaps more troubling, attraction that goes beyond mere physical appearance.

'Velvet' also touches on the emotional turmoil that comes with such intense and complicated relationships. The repeated lines about making someone 'sweat for it' and the 'lippy stains on your back' suggest a physical and emotional intensity that is both exhilarating and exhausting. The song captures the push and pull of desire, the way it can drive people to act in ways they might not fully understand or be able to explain. This emotional complexity is a hallmark of Catfish and the Bottlemen's music, which often explores the darker, more nuanced aspects of love and relationships.