NOT THAT I'M ANYWHERE

Cities Aviv's 'NOT THAT I'M ANYWHERE' is a powerful exploration of identity, societal oppression, and existential dislocation. The song opens with stark imagery of 'burning crosses on a nigga's lawn,' a direct reference to the historical and ongoing racial violence in America. This line sets the tone for a narrative that delves into the pain and struggle of marginalized communities. The subsequent line, 'Burning dollars, what's a house without a home?' questions the value of material wealth in the absence of true belonging and safety.

The recurring motif of dancing in various contexts—'white sheet glory,' 'unsung story,' 'bleeding pasture,' and 'violent mash-up'—serves as a metaphor for the different ways people cope with their circumstances. The 'white sheet glory' likely alludes to the Ku Klux Klan, while 'unsung story' speaks to the overlooked narratives of those who suffer. The imagery of 'sinking fangs into the throat of the earth' and 'liberating it by the choice of rebirth' suggests a violent yet necessary upheaval for change and renewal.

The chorus, 'I'm neither here or there, not that I'm anywhere,' encapsulates a sense of existential dislocation. This feeling of being unanchored is further emphasized by the lines, 'These dreams of red expel my spirit from my body to the atmosphere,' and 'I look to angels for my blessings, they just turn their ear.' The artist expresses a profound sense of abandonment and disillusionment with both earthly and divine entities. The song critiques the superficial changes people make, 'These people only fabricate the change they wanna see,' highlighting a deep cynicism about societal progress.

'NOT THAT I'M ANYWHERE' is a raw and introspective piece that challenges listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about identity, belonging, and the superficiality of societal change. Cities Aviv uses vivid and often violent imagery to convey a message that is both personal and universal, making it a compelling and thought-provoking work.