Meaning of Time in Common - Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever
Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever, the Melbourne-based indie rock ensemble, has earned acclaim for its distinctive blend of infectious melodies and introspective lyrical content. A notable addition to their repertoire, the track "Time in Common," featured in the 2018 album "Hope Downs," serves as an exploration of the intricate dynamics inherent in the realms of time, relationships, and shared experiences. Despite the seemingly unadorned nature of the lyrics, the song unfolds a narrative that adeptly captures the subtleties woven into human connections and the transient quality of time.
Commencing with the introductory lines of "Time in Common," the band skillfully establishes a thematic landscape illustrating temporal disconnection. The poignant mention of "Time at separate tables" conveys a palpable sense of isolation and fragmented instances. In contrast, the subsequent reference to "Time in common" introduces the crux of the composition – an exploration of those moments of shared experience that serve as the binding force between individuals. The song, in essence, evolves into a contemplative reflection on the ebb and flow of time within the context of interpersonal relationships.
Through the unfolding verses, Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever crafts a lyrical tapestry rich with scenes and emotions, employing vivid imagery to encapsulate the essence of shared time. Lines such as "Your legs were next to mine" evoke an intimacy and physical proximity that underscore the defining moments of togetherness within shared experiences. Further emphasizing the importance of communication and mutual understanding, the mention of "Words in the right order" contributes to the nuanced exploration of relationships embedded in the song's fabric.
The lyrics of "Time in Common" take a contemplative turn, prompting introspection by pondering the relevance and impact of shared moments. The probing questions posed – "Do you ever think about it? Do you feel it all that much? Do you really think it matters?" – delve into the inherent introspective nature of the song. This introspection functions as a reflective mirror for listeners, urging them to consider the weight and significance of shared time within the context of their own experiences and relationships.
As the song progresses, the band introduces the concept of a "Brand new union" and a "mutual life assured," implying the evolution of relationships over time. The concept of time in common transcends the notion of fleeting moments, extending into a shared journey characterized by growth and mutual understanding. This narrative arc adds profound depth to the song, elevating it from a mere reflection on individual moments to a contemplation of the enduring nature of connections forged through shared time.
The concluding lines of "Time in Common" bring the listener back to tangible reality, depicting scenes of birds, sunsets, and train platforms. These vivid images, coupled with the recurrent phrase "Time in common," evoke a sense of continuity and cyclical nature. The mention of elastic time reflects the malleability of shared experiences, encapsulating the notion that despite life's evolving landscapes, certain moments remain eternally intertwined within the fabric of common time.
In essence, Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever's "Time in Common" stands as a lyrical exploration into the nuanced dynamics of time within the framework of relationships. The band adeptly captures the spectrum of emotions tied to shared moments, inviting listeners to reflect on the transient nature of time and the enduring impact of connections forged through its passage. The song serves as a testament to the band's prowess in infusing depth and introspection into their indie rock sound, further solidifying their position as masters of musical storytelling.
