Sleep The Clock Around (Belle and Sebastian cover)

Mates Of State's cover of Belle and Sebastian's 'Sleep The Clock Around' delves into the themes of disillusionment, self-reflection, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The song opens with a sense of regaining composure and facing the world, despite feeling out of place and scrutinized by society. The imagery of walking down Liberty Hill with 'curious eyes' watching suggests a journey of self-awareness and the struggle to find one's voice amidst external judgments.

The lyrics then transition into a more introspective phase, where the protagonist grapples with the futility of their actions and the overwhelming nature of their circumstances. The mention of taking a walk in the park and reading a letter from the 'memory girl' highlights attempts to find solace and clarity. However, these actions fall short of providing true understanding or relief. The reference to the 'United States of Calamity' underscores a broader sense of societal and personal turmoil, suggesting that the protagonist's struggles are part of a larger, chaotic world.

As the song progresses, there is a shift towards a more hopeful perspective. The protagonist visits a 'ladies salon' to prepare for 'The Paperback Throne,' symbolizing a desire to reinvent oneself and find a new purpose. Despite the realization that their efforts to help others may seem wasted, there is an acknowledgment that there is still much to be done while they are young. The song concludes with a sense of resolution, as the protagonist finds a place where they can finally rest and reflect, symbolized by 'sleeping the clock around.' This ending suggests a cyclical journey of struggle, self-discovery, and eventual peace.