MMXX A.D.
HMLTD
A Chaotic Portrait of the 21st Century
HMLTD's song "MMXX A.D." is a raw and unfiltered commentary on the complexities and contradictions of the 21st century. The lyrics are a series of vivid, often jarring images that encapsulate the essence of modern life. The opening lines, "The 21st century? Don't talk to me about the 21st century. I am the fucking 21st century," set the tone for a song that is both a declaration and a critique. The artist positions themselves as a personification of the era, embodying its highs and lows, its innovations and its failures.
The song's references are a mix of cultural, technological, and social phenomena. Phrases like "I am the triplet and the millennial whoop" and "Asymmetry, The new Europe" highlight the musical and geopolitical shifts that define our time. The mention of "every lonely, empty internet cafe in every lonely, empty American city" paints a picture of isolation and disconnection, despite the promise of global connectivity. This juxtaposition of connectivity and loneliness is a recurring theme, reflecting the paradoxes of modern life.
Further into the song, the lyrics delve into more specific and often darker aspects of the 21st century. References to the "BP oil spill," "a disgraced Hollywood mogul," and "revenge porn" underscore the environmental, ethical, and moral crises that have come to the forefront. The line "I am the lovingly graspable future" offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that despite the chaos and confusion, there is still potential for a better future. HMLTD's eclectic musical style, which blends elements of punk, glam rock, and electronic music, complements the song's chaotic and multifaceted narrative, making "MMXX A.D." a compelling reflection on our times.