Deftones

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Universe surrounds
When you're ready
It waits for us to
To leave this earth
Come on, they're calling your name
Out

[Bridge 1]
I don't know
I could stay or leave
Either way
Cause the comet can take us
All the way through

[Chorus]
Goodbye
Safe, Heaven
New, new world
I'll be waving
Goodbye
Safe, Heaven
New, new world
I'll be waving

[Bridge 2]
Goodbye
Return to see
Everything looks the same
I don't know
If the change made was grave
'Cause the craving remains the same
[Chorus]
Goodbye
Safe, Heaven
New, new world
I'll be waving
Goodbye
Safe, Heaven
New, new world

[Outro]
I'll be waving
Goodbye

Xerces by Deftones is a song that delves into the complex subject of mortality and legacy. In a world where everything is transient, Xerces explores the idea of leaving behind a lasting impression long after we are gone.

The song is part of Deftones' fifth studio album, Saturday Night Wrist, which was released in 2006. Xerces is one of the standout tracks from the album and is known for its haunting melody, intricate arrangements, and enigmatic lyrics. The track is a testament to Deftones' unique style, fusing elements of alternative rock, metal, and shoegazing to create a sound that transcends genres.

About Xerces

Upon first listen, Xerces may seem like a melancholic ballad with its soaring vocals and ethereal guitar riffs. But a closer look at the lyrics reveals a deeper meaning. Xerces is about the human desire to be remembered fondly after we are gone. The song explores the concept of using drugs as a means of transcendence, escaping the mundanity of everyday life, and creating something that will exist long after we are gone. "Doing drugs and trusting what you left behind in the world will be enough to be remembered fondly," the lyrics say.

The title of the song is a nod to the Xerces Blue butterfly, a species that went extinct in the early 1940s. The butterfly is a metaphor for the ephemeral nature of life. Deftones lead singer, Chino Moreno, has also talked about how the song was inspired by the death of his friend and fellow musician, Elliott Smith, who struggled with addiction before passing away in 2003.

Xerces is a perfect example of Deftones' unique approach to music-making. The band has always been known for their ability to blend disparate genres and create a sound that defies categorization. The track's intricate arrangements, soaring vocals, and heavy guitar riffs are a testament to the band's skill and creativity.

One of the most striking aspects of Xerces is the use of dynamics. The song builds and subverts expectations, creating tension and release in equal measure. The use of subtle shifts in volume and intensity adds layers of complexity to the track, creating an immersive experience for the listener. The lyrics are also notable for their cryptic and metaphorical nature, leaving room for interpretation and analysis.

Ultimately, Xerces is a song that speaks to the human experience. It's about the desire to create something that will live on after we are gone, the fear of being forgotten, and the struggle to find meaning in a world that can often seem chaotic and meaningless. It's a beautiful and haunting meditation on life and death, and it's a testament to Deftones' ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

In sum, Xerces is a work of art that defies easy categorization. It's a complex and nuanced exploration of life, death, and the human experience, set to a backdrop of haunting melodies and heavy guitar riffs. With this track, Deftones proves once again that they are one of the most innovative and talented bands of their generation.

• Release Date: October 31, 2006
• Artist: Deftones