Roscoe (Midlake Cover)

Ellie Goulding's cover of 'Roscoe' by Midlake is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of nostalgia, change, and the passage of time. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a bygone era, where stone-cutters and mountaineers worked tirelessly to build a life from the ground up. These images evoke a sense of admiration for the hard work and dedication of past generations, who laid the foundation for the present. The mention of 'stone-cutters' and 'mountaineers' symbolizes the strength and resilience required to create something lasting and meaningful.

As the song progresses, it delves into the theme of change and the inevitable transformation of places and people. The village, once a simple and self-sufficient community, is now overwhelmed by 'hundreds and hundreds of chemicals,' representing the complexities and challenges of modern life. This shift from simplicity to complexity highlights the tension between the past and the present, and the longing for a return to a more straightforward, less complicated time. The lyrics suggest a desire to escape the overwhelming nature of contemporary life and find solace in the familiar and the natural.

The song also touches on personal identity and the impact of one's name and heritage. The narrator reflects on the possibility of having a different name, 'Roscoe,' and imagines a different life path. This introspection underscores the idea that our names and histories shape who we are and influence our sense of self. The repeated refrain, 'Thought we were due for a change or two around this place,' serves as a reminder that change is constant and inevitable, but it also brings the hope of renewal and growth. Goulding's ethereal voice adds a layer of melancholy and introspection to the song, making it a poignant meditation on the passage of time and the enduring human spirit.