Neutral Milk Hotel

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Daddy, please hear this song that I sing
In your heart there's a spark that just screams
For a lover to bring a child to your chest
That could lay as you sleep
And love all you have left like your boy used to be
Long ago wrapped in sheets warm and wet

[Verse 2]
Blister please, with those wings in your spine
Love to be with a brother of mine
How he'd love to find your tongue in his teeth
In a struggle to find secret songs that you keep
Wrapped in boxes so tight
Sounding only at night as you sleep

[Bridge]
And in my dreams you're alive and you're crying
As your mouth moves in mine, soft and sweet
Rings of flowers 'round your eyes and I'll love you
For the rest of your life when you're ready

[Verse 3]
Brother, see we are one in the same
And you left with your head filled with flames
And you watched as your brains fell out through your teeth
Push the pieces in place
Make your smile sweet to see, don't you take this away
I'm still wanting my face on your cheek
[Bridge]
And when we break, we'll wait for our miracle
God is a place where some holy spectacle lies
When we break we'll wait for our miracle
God is a place you will wait for the rest of your life

[Outro]
Two headed boy, she is all you could need
She will feed you tomatoes and radio wires
And retire to sheets safe and clean
But don't hate her when she gets up to leave
(creaking, guitar hitting floor, footsteps)

Hey there music lovers! Today, let's dive into the remarkable and thought-provoking world of indie rock with Neutral Milk Hotel's mesmerizing track, "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two." Get ready to be captivated by Jeff Mangum's haunting lyrics and the rich, evocative soundscapes that this track has to offer.

Released as part of their influential second album, "In the Aeroplane Over the Sea," "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two" stands out as a poignant and deeply emotional piece. As we delve into the depths of this song, it's fascinating to discover the intriguing backstory that surrounds it.

About Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two

In order to truly appreciate the depth and complexity of "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two," it's important to explore the inspiration behind it. During one of their live performances at Jittery Joe's, Jeff Mangum himself revealed that this song tells the story of a family living in Europe during the 1940s.

Now, here's where things get even more fascinating. To add an extra layer of meaning to the lyrics, some portions of the song were intentionally masked in the recording to conceal the presence of Anne Frank. Yes, you heard that right! Mangum strategically intertwined his haunting narrative with the heart-wrenching story of Anne Frank, allowing us to experience the raw and poignant emotions of a time fraught with tragedy and loss.

As the song begins, we are immediately drawn in by its sparse and minimalistic arrangement. The gentle strumming of the acoustic guitar creates an intimate atmosphere, enveloping us in a sense of vulnerability and introspection. Mangum's voice, fragile yet filled with raw emotion, delivers each line with an almost whispered intensity, pulling us closer and demanding our full attention.

Lyrically, "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two" is a lyrical masterpiece. Mangum's poetic storytelling transports us through vivid imagery, allowing us to witness the struggles and resilience of the characters in this deeply captivating narrative. Each word and phrase carefully chosen, we find ourselves contemplating the profound themes of love, self-acceptance, and the complexities of human existence.

The track unfolds like a bittersweet lullaby, gradually building up with the introduction of additional instruments. Cascading horns, ethereal accordion, and a delicate wash of cymbals create a swirling sonic tapestry that adds a sense of grandeur and overwhelming emotion to the song. The meticulously layered instrumentation serves as a perfect backdrop for Mangum's evocative lyrics, enveloping us in a world of melancholic beauty.

As we reach the climax of the song, the swelling of the music and Mangum's impassioned vocals intertwine, creating a cathartic release of emotions that reverberates through our very being. It's a moment that leaves us breathless, emotionally spent yet deeply fulfilled.

In the end, "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two" is a profound testament to the power of music to transport and connect us on a deeply emotional level. Through their intricate storytelling and the raw vulnerability of their sound, Neutral Milk Hotel crafted a song that stands the test of time, captivating listeners far beyond their initial release.

So, whether you're a longtime fan of Neutral Milk Hotel or just discovering "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two" for the first time, be prepared to embark on an unforgettable musical journey. Let the ethereal soundscapes and introspective lyrics wash over you, allowing this extraordinary track to leave an indelible mark upon your soul.

Grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of "Two-Headed Boy, Pt. Two" by Neutral Milk Hotel.

• Release Date: February 10, 1998
• Artist: Neutral Milk Hotel