Death Of The Phone Call

“Death Of The Phone Call” by Whatever, Dad is a whimsical yet poignant exploration of the loss of communication in the modern age. The song opens with a playful French count-off, setting a surreal tone that continues throughout the lyrics. The protagonist, who identifies as a swordfish (espadon in French), laments the loss of their phone, which has transformed into a mushroom in a field of sunflowers. This surreal imagery suggests a disconnection from the digital world and a return to nature, albeit in a nonsensical and dreamlike manner.

The lyrics delve deeper into the theme of lost communication, with the swordfish expressing concern for everyone, both humans and other swordfish, who can no longer experience the joy of a phone call. The mushroom, described as useless and unappetizing, symbolizes the futility and dissatisfaction that comes with the loss of this form of connection. The song captures a sense of nostalgia for a time when phone calls were a primary means of staying in touch, contrasting it with the present, where such connections are often lost or replaced by less personal forms of communication.

Whatever, Dad’s musical style, often characterized by lo-fi production and introspective lyrics, enhances the song’s melancholic yet whimsical atmosphere. The use of French adds an additional layer of charm and detachment, emphasizing the universal nature of the song’s themes. Ultimately, “Death Of The Phone Call” is a reflection on the changing nature of communication and the emotional impact of losing a once-cherished means of connecting with others.