Queens of the Stone Age

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Don't look, just keep your eyes peeled
Thoughtless, traipsing a minefield
Shotgun, never behind the wheel (Anymore)
Danger, monsters in smoke and mirror
Slowly, can one so lost be found?

[Chorus]
Well, I know you'll never believe
I play as though I'm alright
If life is but a dream
Then wake me up

[Verse 2]
Fallen leaves realize they are no friend of autumn
The view from Hell is blue sky
So ominously blue
Daydream until all the blue is gone

[Chorus]
Well, I know you'll never believe
I play as though I'm alright
If life is but a dream
Wake me

[Bridge]
Underwater is another life
Disregarding every myth we write
Rag doll churning, eagerly alive
(Over and over and gasping in horror
So breathless you surface
And just as the next wave hits)
[Verse 3]
Big smile, really a show of teeth
Without a care in a world, no fear
Lonely, you don't know how I feel
Praise God, nothing is as it seems

Queens of the Stone Age's "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is a captivating and thought-provoking opening track from their sixth album, "...Like Clockwork." This powerful song explores the complex emotions surrounding a distorted and negative mentality, presenting an alternative reality that the narrator inhabits. With its raw intensity and introspective lyrics, "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" delves deep into the psyche of the protagonist, depicting a world where taking things at face value is the only existence they know.

About Keep Your Eyes Peeled

As the opening track of "...Like Clockwork," "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" sets the tone for the entire album. It serves as a poignant introduction, immersing listeners in the dark and brooding atmosphere that defines the record. The song lures the audience into a musical labyrinth, where distorted guitars and haunting vocals create an eerie sense of unease.

"Keep Your Eyes Peeled" explores the concept of a distorted reality, with the protagonist traversing a mental landscape characterized by disillusionment and confusion. The lyrics, delivered with intense emotion by lead vocalist Josh Homme, paint a vivid picture of a world where things may not be as they appear. The song's cryptic and metaphorical language adds depth and complexity to the narrative, encouraging listeners to interpret its meaning in their own personal way.

The instrumentation of "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is equally captivating. The pulsating bassline, provided by Michael Shuman, drives the song forward with a relentless energy. It intertwines with Troy Van Leeuwen's ethereal guitar work, creating a mesmerizing sonic tapestry. The rhythm section, consisting of drummer Jon Theodore and former member Dave Grohl, lays a solid foundation that allows the song to build tension and intensity as it progresses.

One of the most striking aspects of "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions in listeners. The combination of the melancholic lyrics and the powerful instrumentation creates a sense of uneasiness and introspection. The song captures the essence of being trapped in a distorted reality, where hope and despair intertwine, and the boundaries between truth and illusion blur.

Lyrically, "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" offers a glimpse into the protagonist's mindset. The obscure and enigmatic phrases invite interpretation, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. The lyrics serve as a mirror, reflecting the fears, doubts, and insecurities that often haunt the human psyche.

Through its perplexing lyrics and atmospheric composition, "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" envelops the listener in a sonic universe that is simultaneously disorienting and captivating. The song's burstiness lies in its ability to subvert expectations, to challenge preconceived notions, and to delve into the intricate and often contradictory complexities of the human experience.

The production of "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is immaculate, showcasing the band's meticulous attention to detail. The layers of sound intertwine seamlessly, creating a rich and immersive sonic landscape. The song's dynamics, alternating between moments of quiet introspection and explosive release, further enhance its impact.

Furthermore, the lyrics of "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" invite listeners to explore their own perception of reality. The song asks fundamental questions about the nature of our existence and the ways in which our minds construct alternative versions of reality. It serves as a thought-provoking and introspective journey, challenging listeners to reassess their own beliefs and confront the complexities of the human condition.

In essence, "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is a powerful and compelling song that delves into the depths of the human psyche. It offers a glimpse into a distorted reality, exploring the emotions and perspectives that arise from dwelling in such a mentally ambiguous space. With its intense lyrics, haunting instrumentation, and thought-provoking themes, "Keep Your Eyes Peeled" is a testament to the introspective and boundary-pushing nature of Queens of the Stone Age's music.

• Release Date: May 13, 2013
• Artist: Queens of the Stone Age