Neutral Milk Hotel

Lyrics

[Verse]
Blistering Pree, all smiling and swollen
Makes babies to breathe
With their hearts hanging open all over the sheets
As soft as beets in some brown dresser drawer
And with bees in her breath and the rest of her ringing
They'll sting through her chest with a force hard and beating
Till wonderfully wet she will get
Until she's soaked inside her clothes
And there is no sorry to be sorry for
For a roll around the floor some afternoon so sound and soft
It made her swallow all her sweat
With every bit of breath she coughs
And when the day it came to pour all her babies
All across the bathroom floor
She will be swimming in them all forever moreYou might also likeEmbed

Are you ready to dive into the intriguing and heartwarming world of Neutral Milk Hotel's music? Join me as we explore the iconic track, "A Baby for Pree," from their debut album, "On Avery Island." This song, written for Jeff Mangum's dear friend Pree, takes us on a lyrical journey centered around the theme of pregnancy. Let's examine the captivating details and connections that make this track truly exceptional.

About A Baby for Pree

"A Baby for Pree," sometimes mistakenly referred to as "A Baby for Free," holds a special place on Neutral Milk Hotel's debut album, "On Avery Island." As the fourth track on the record, it captivates listeners with its introspective lyrics and enchanting melody. Written in honor of Jeff Mangum's friend Pree, the song beautifully encapsulates the joy and transformative nature of entering parenthood.

When Pree gave birth to her first child, Mangum felt compelled to celebrate this miraculous event with a heartfelt composition. The lyrics delicately navigate the emotions associated with a new chapter in life, offering an intimate glance into the experience of becoming a parent. As the melody weaves its way through poignant verses, it creates a profound musical landscape that perfectly complements the profoundness of this significant life milestone.

Interestingly, the melody of "A Baby for Pree" finds new life in the track "Where You'll Find Me Now." Acting as an enchanting introduction to the latter song, the reuse of this melody showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful storytelling behind Neutral Milk Hotel's music. The connection between these two tracks adds depth and continuity to the album, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the overall narrative woven by the band.

It's worth noting that "A Baby for Pree" represents a significant milestone for Neutral Milk Hotel as well. As the last song written for "On Avery Island," it serves as a testament to the band's growth and evolution throughout the album's creation. The culmination of their artistic journey, this track encapsulates the many emotions experienced during the recording process and leaves a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.

With its thoughtful lyrics, enchanting melody, and connections to other tracks on the album, "A Baby for Pree" showcases Neutral Milk Hotel's ability to create music that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Whether you're a fan of the band or simply appreciate heartfelt and introspective music, this track is sure to captivate your senses and leave you longing for more.

In Closing

As we conclude our exploration of "A Baby for Pree," we have witnessed the power of music to convey deep emotions and touch upon universal themes. Neutral Milk Hotel's ability to create a captivating narrative within their songs is truly remarkable. Through this track, they remind us of the joy and vulnerability that comes with embracing new beginnings and the transformative journey of parenthood.

So, grab your headphones and allow yourself to be transported by the heartfelt melodies and introspective lyrics of "A Baby for Pree." Let the music take you on a journey through the enchanting world crafted by Neutral Milk Hotel, and immerse yourself in the profound emotions that await.

• Release Date: March 26, 1996
• Artist: Neutral Milk Hotel