Lyric Analysis: "Beauty from Pain 1.1" by Superchic[k]

I would like to begin the post out on a positive note. With the specialization of music psychotherapy, the technique of lyric analysis is used quite frequently. Lyric analysis is just that: looking at the lyrics of a particular song, analyzing or studying the lyrics, and discussing and applying their relation to one's life. Most of us do this independently, without the guidance of a music therapist. Do you hear a song on the radio that you feel was written just for you, at that moment in your life? If so, you have identified with those lyrics and applied them to your life in some small way. Seems simple enough, right? Well, the music and lyrics can have an influential impact on someone in a counseling session. The emotion of the music may make a new connection and insight into themselves. The choice of music can be the catalyst for a critical moment of catharsis.

With that in mind, I would like to share one of my favorite albums, "Beauty from Pain 1.1" by Superchic[k]. This album is amazing (my opinion, of course!). It is evident that the songwriters have "done their own work" in terms of counseling and tackle important issues in each song. Most songs deal with issues of pain or what I would call "girl power" or the empowerment of women.

Song by song:

Anthem: This song is a sort of "ode" to girls who don't give up, a rally song for all the women who have been told "you can't." The lyrics speak to girls in traditionally male roles (girls with bruises and scars, lipstick and cleats). It has a driving rock / punk sound.
Beauty from Pain: A beautiful ballad with a haunting piano line discusses deep, penetrating pain, the glimmer of hope, and the questioning of "why." This is one of the few songs I have heard that truly conveys emotional pain and the struggle of day-to-day. It is real, heart-wrenching, and thought provoking.
Bowling Ball: "You need that boy like a bowling ball dropped on your head; and that means not at all." These lyrics from the chorus pretty much sum up the theme of the song: drop that no-good guy! This song makes me laugh, and well, sigh at the same time about how sometimes a girl needs to hear that she's wasting her time with a guy! It has an upbeat punk feel - very fun.
Courage: A song about body image, eating disorders, a secret life, and asking for help. A moving depiction of a soliloquy of a young girl in pain dealing with these issues. A message of hope. Listen to it here.
It's On: Another upbeat song about action, change, doing something positive. "no matter how you feel, it's what you do that matters it's your moment to be strong."
One Girl Revolution: A cross between punk, dance and metal with a great message about confidence. Chorus includes: "I'll be everything that I want to be I am confidence in insecurity I am a voice yet waiting to be heard." Great and fun.
Pure: With more of a pop feel, "Pure" can be interpreted with a Christian message (Superchic[k] used to be considered an exclusively Christian band, ya know). However, it can also be understood as overcoming stressors and anxieties of any kind in ones life "The rocks of life won't pull me down." Very positive. A great transition to relaxation strategies.
Stand in the Rain: One of the great new songs on this album, it speaks to the moments when everything seems to go wrong at the same moment, when all the bad things catch up with you at the same time. CHORUS: "So stand in the rain; Stand your ground; Stand up when it’s all crashing down; You stand through the pain; You won’t drown; And one day what’s lost can be found; You stand in the rain." A strong song musically to support the lyrics and message.
Suddenly: After all the singing of pain and hardship, this song discusses when things just click and "Suddenly" you are where you are supposed to be. I great reminder of when things "just work out they way they are supposed to" and to be patient.
We Live: You may have heard this song, I believe it is the theme music to "Brothers and Sisters" on ABC. The lyrics discuss that even in the midst of tragedy, we must live, love, forgive and never give up because each day is a gift. Beautiful theme song for life.
Wishes: Again, back to the punk feel, this last song talks about romantic relationships that didn't work out, broken dreams, growing up, and saying goodbye.

I encourage you to check out this CD if anything "spoke" to you in these songs. Go forth, listen, validate your feelings, and gain some insight!
~Blessings! Mary