How Long?

Fantastic Negrito's song 'How Long?' is a powerful commentary on the current state of society, filled with vivid imagery and poignant questions. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where people are isolated, struggling, and holding on to hope amidst chaos. The reference to 'Al Capone's' suggests a society filled with individuals who are both feared and revered, much like the infamous gangster. This duality of being 'full of shit, full of hope' captures the conflicting emotions many feel in today's turbulent times.

The song delves into the repetitive nature of societal lies and the false sense of comfort they provide. The line 'We can repeat the same old lies 'til they make us feel alright' highlights the cyclical nature of deception and denial. The 'scary one' mentioned could symbolize the internal and external battles people face, whether it's societal pressures or personal demons. The imagery of standing alone 'where the wild things roam' evokes a sense of vulnerability and danger, further emphasized by the 'loudmouth king of the hill' and the 'lynch mob ready to kill you.' This paints a picture of a society driven by aggression and mob mentality, where social media ('spitting out hashtags') amplifies the chaos.

The recurring question 'What have we become?' serves as a reflection on the moral and ethical decline of society. The repeated plea 'Tell me how long?' underscores the urgency for change and the desperation to find a way out of the current state of affairs. The song's narrative of individuals like 'Jimmy' who are 'stuck deep in a hole' and 'cannot breathe' speaks to the widespread feeling of suffocation and the need for peace. Fantastic Negrito's raw and emotive delivery adds to the song's impact, making 'How Long?' a compelling call to action for listeners to reflect on their own roles in society and the changes needed to move forward.