Roll Call

The Neighbourhood's song 'Roll Call' delves into themes of individuality, conformity, and the struggles of maintaining one's identity in a world that often demands uniformity. The lyrics portray a narrative of a 'little soldier' being instructed to follow orders and fit into a pre-defined role, symbolizing the societal pressures to conform. The repeated advice to 'know your roll' and 'don't get left behind' reflects the fear of isolation that comes from non-conformity, suggesting a tension between personal desires and societal expectations.

The chorus of the song, where the singer expresses a desire to 'walk like me' and 'talk like me,' emphasizes the yearning for authenticity and the rejection of being 'another' faceless individual in the crowd. This refrain is a powerful declaration of self-identity and resistance against being molded by external forces. The contrast between the verses and the chorus highlights the internal conflict faced by individuals who struggle to preserve their uniqueness while navigating social norms.

Moreover, the song touches on themes of disillusionment and the realization that the promises made by authority figures often remain unfulfilled. The lines 'Nobody does what they told you they would' and 'Used to feel like we were doing alright' suggest a loss of innocence and the harsh truths encountered as one grows older. This adds a layer of complexity to the song, as it not only discusses the fight for individuality but also the broader disillusionment with societal structures and the quest for personal meaning in a confusing world.