Momentary Bliss (feat. slowthai & Slaves)

Gorillaz's song "Momentary Bliss," featuring slowthai and Slaves, delves into the fleeting nature of superficial happiness and the societal pressures that drive people to seek it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of individuals who settle for temporary pleasures and shallow achievements, symbolized by the phrase "momentary bliss." The song critiques the pursuit of these ephemeral joys, suggesting that people could achieve much more meaningful and lasting fulfillment if they looked beyond the surface.

The recurring mention of "Rita" serves as a metaphor for someone who has potential but lacks the credentials or confidence to realize it fully. The lyrics describe Rita as someone who is constantly seeking validation and approval, squeezing the tube from the middle, a metaphor for doing things the wrong way or taking shortcuts. This imagery highlights the frustration and dissatisfaction that come from not living up to one's true potential. The song also touches on the idea of societal expectations, with lines like "Posta boy, posta girl," indicating the roles people are expected to play and the pressure to conform.

The song's critique extends to the materialistic and consumer-driven culture, where people are often more concerned with appearances and quick fixes than with genuine happiness. The line "Swimming in pools of momentary bliss" suggests that people are drowning in these shallow pleasures, unable to find true satisfaction. The repeated refrain, "We could do so much better than this," serves as a call to action, urging listeners to seek deeper, more meaningful experiences and to break free from the cycle of momentary bliss.

Overall, "Momentary Bliss" is a powerful commentary on the superficiality of modern life and the importance of striving for more substantial and lasting fulfillment. It challenges listeners to reflect on their own lives and consider whether they are settling for momentary bliss or pursuing something more meaningful.