I’m pretty sure this band is giddy for their new album “Lost in Translation” to release Oct. 6. “Madeleine” is playful and happy. The introductory piano chords immediately reminded me of “Mr. Pitiful” by Matt Costa, which is also upbeat and playful despite the title.
What is most important about this song release is the definition it gives to the new album. “One Of Us” established the core style of the album. “Madeleine” and singles like “CIA” show the flexibility of the band. The clear theme is upbeat. Literally, the bass drum is pounding in every song while the snare accents the beat. There are also the chorus moments that will make live concerts extremely enjoyable for the attendees (I’m seeing them on Saturday! Subscribe to see my review of them live).
Each song does have its own personal touch. Madeleine, for instance, incorporates some brass instruments at the end that complements the feeling of wanting to link arms with your friends and sway as the chorus is sung. Or for those of you in relationships, serenade your partner with off-key singing and dancing like you’re back in middle school.
Getting back to “Madeleine” and the meaning of the song. While New Politics have stated on Twitter, “This next one was inspired by a close friend who accepts you for who you are.” I may be stretching in my analysis of the lyrics, but It also seems to be a love song for the girl that got away. Walking through the awkward process of love and how they were not ready for it appears with the lyrics:
“You’ve got to love yourself before you love somebody
You got to try it all before you know who you want
The self-assured or the heavyhearted
She took my hand and said I hope that we will meet again”
It also becomes clear that they are no longer in connection with each other, but he hears of her success. Each time she comes to mind he says:
“And when you’re winning, we’ll be singing
‘Madeleine, I hope you’re well'”
A beautiful song that gives an honest look at love that could have been,
-Wesley A. Gehman