Hustle Rose

Metric's song 'Hustle Rose' delves into the seductive yet hollow world of nightlife and materialism. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character, referred to as 'Hustle Rose,' who navigates this world with a sense of detachment and purpose. The repeated phrase 'Now that your wallet is all lit up' underscores the transactional nature of these interactions, where money and superficial allure take center stage. The fishnet-clad figure represents a certain archetype within this scene, moving from one person to another, driven by the glow of wealth and the promise of fleeting pleasure.

The song also touches on the emptiness that often accompanies such a lifestyle. The line 'If every surface you touch is cold, never go home' suggests a sense of alienation and disconnection. The nightclub, described as a 'sardine nightclub,' is a place where people seek something 'life-like' but ultimately find only cold, impersonal experiences. The protagonist's dreams are described as 'so tight,' indicating a sense of confinement and unfulfilled desires. This is further emphasized by the repeated assertion, 'I can't feel a thing,' highlighting the emotional numbness that pervades this world.

'Hustle Rose' is a commentary on the pursuit of materialism and the superficial connections that often define nightlife. The song's repetitive structure and haunting melody reinforce the cyclical nature of this existence, where people are drawn to the allure of wealth and glamour but ultimately find themselves trapped in a loop of emptiness and disillusionment. Metric's evocative lyrics and atmospheric sound create a powerful narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pull of the nightlife's bright lights and the subsequent letdown of its hollow promises.