Review: "Shadows" Single by Reptile Room
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Atlanta based electro pop trio Reptile Room released their latest single “Shadows” on November 13th. This single captures the initial reaction to change; and not only the idea of change, but the unsettling, uneasy, and honest feelings around it.
“now I think I’m drowning”
“this is how we live now”
Obviously, every song is up for interpretation. But I’d say that this song shines light on the immense pressure that an artist feels when they’re first stepping into their own success.
Reptile Room released their first EP in 2017, titled “Reptile Room” and have gained massive following ever since. Their song “Control” was featured on SYFY’s original series “Magician”.
The song is titled “Shadows”. Both used here metaphorically and literally room. Reptile Room sings:
“Shadows on the hotel walls
Lightning, dancing through the windows
Voices echo through the halls
And I can’t sleep at all”
I think that this was all part of the horrific change that was happening. I think that this lyric speaks truth to the unease of being a touring artist. The give and go, push and pull of the lifestyle. And, quite literally I feel as though that time actually happened. Trying to fall asleep, you don’t know what time it is, people are awake and you hear people, but you literally can’t sleep. That’s scary.
Room goes on to say:
“it’s 4:03, Germany. I can’t sleep it’s been weeks”
I think this lyrics speaks truth to the nature of the lifestyle.
However, I don’t believe that these lyrics are purposed to antagonize. And you can feel that, as a listener. The song is well balanced with its lyrics and; sonically, its rhythmic tones. The song narrates itself in the form of a short story. It’s not a scary story. It’s an honest one, with the uncomfortable feelings involved with change. It’s acceptance. Opening the door and letting “it” in, whatever that may be.
Reptile Room creates a beautiful story about the acceptance of change. And, what a good reminder to all of us during this time of discomfort. Where everything seems to be changing every second of every day. The artists leave us with this.
“this is how we live now
This is how it feels now”
A brutally honest statement of truth. And to Reptile Room, thank you, for your humbling reminder.