The Other Side Of Paradise

Glass Animals' 'The Other Side Of Paradise' tells a poignant story of love, ambition, and the harsh realities of chasing dreams. The song's narrative revolves around a person whose lover leaves to pursue fame and fortune in the music industry, a journey that leads to transformation and ultimately, estrangement. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the lover's ascent to a superficial paradise, filled with material wealth and empty glamour, symbolized by the 'gold Camaro' and the 'girl who wore Versace.' The repeated phrase 'Bye-bye, baby blue' signifies a farewell to innocence and the past, as the protagonist grapples with the loss of the person they once knew.

The song also touches on the theme of disillusionment. The protagonist reflects on the 'wicked truth' that the pursuit of fame can corrupt and change a person, leading them to abandon their roots and relationships. The mention of 'NOLA' (New Orleans, Louisiana) suggests a longing for a simpler time and place, where people stayed true to their loved ones. The repeated lines 'I settle for a ghost I never knew' and 'Super paradise I held on to' convey a sense of settling for the memory of a person who has become unrecognizable, a ghost of their former self.

Musically, Glass Animals are known for their psychedelic pop sound, which complements the dreamlike and introspective nature of the lyrics. The song's production, with its slow-motion feel and atmospheric elements, mirrors the emotional numbness and disorientation the protagonist experiences. 'The Other Side Of Paradise' is a reflective piece that explores the cost of chasing dreams and the pain of watching someone you love become a stranger in the pursuit of success.