Meds features: Bruce Hornsby (piano, vocals, bass, John Cage samples); Justin Vernon (background vocals); Blake Mills (guitar); Chad Wright (drums); J.V. Collier (bass); Gibb Droll (pedal steel, guitar); J.T. Thomas (organ); Rob Moose (viola, violin); .
From: Absolute Zero album (2019).
Blake (guitar) has worked with a diverse a crowd, for example Kid Rock, Norah Jones, Pink and Dixie Chicks and also Lana Del Ray.
One of the newest Absolute Zero songs, it was written towards the end of the record’s recording.
Rob (guitar, viola, mandolin) counts Chris Thile/Punch Brothers, Bon Iver and Ben Folds amongst his collaborations.
“A particular tour de force of Hornsby/Moose featuring special guitar by Blake Mills, blossoms into gripping ‘60s soul choruses.”
From Bruce: “Comes from an extended family history of depression. (“Lost Soul” was about one of my cousins). “Halcyon Days” covers the same sort of thing. “Pastures of Plenty”… I tend to revisit it, like I do the race issue. I can’t explain it, other than to say that I’ve been surrounded by it through my life.”
Meds meaning
Bruce Hornsby’s song “Meds” explores the theme of depression and the reliance on medication and support from others to cope with mental health struggles. Like Lost Soul, it delves into the complexities of feeling lost and the desire for relief from emotional pain.
Struggles with depression
The opening lines depict a sense of isolation and numbness, as the protagonist is sitting alone, listening to the dial tone. This imagery suggests a feeling of disconnection from the world. The phrase “if I dial I hope I find nobody home” highlights a reluctance to reach out for help, emphasizing a struggle with social interaction and the overwhelming nature of depression.
Desperation for relief
The lyrics “I’ve been in pain unceasing and I tried to deep-breathe” express the persistent nature of emotional pain. Deep breathing is often recommended as a technique to manage stress and anxiety, but in this context, it underscores the inadequacy of such methods when dealing with deep-seated issues. The “bottomless seethe” suggests a feeling of anger or frustration that cannot be contained, reflecting the intensity of the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
The role of medication
The song acknowledges the use of medication to cope with these feelings, as indicated in the lines “with a little help from the meds.” This candid mention of medication illustrates a realistic approach to mental health, highlighting how some individuals rely on pharmaceuticals to manage their conditions. The phrase “to tame a beast I serve” metaphorically refers to the inner demons associated with depression, implying that the struggle is ongoing and requires constant attention.
Support from others
The mention of “some sympathetic souls” indicates the importance of community and support in the healing process. The lyrics “embraced in a tender loving hold” suggest that human connection plays a vital role in combating loneliness and despair. This embrace symbolizes not only physical comfort but emotional support, which can be crucial for those grappling with mental health issues.
A shift in perspective
The repetition of “I’ve been loving, been loving, you” indicates a sense of connection that contrasts with the earlier feelings of isolation. This connection could refer to a significant other or supportive friends and family who provide the love and encouragement needed to navigate difficult times. The transition to feeling “straight-ahead, out the bed” symbolizes a move toward positivity and recovery, suggesting that with support and medication, there is a possibility of overcoming depression.
Emotional numbness
The line “I’d rather feel nothing than this” captures a profound sense of despair. The protagonist’s wish to stop feeling reflects the depth of their suffering. This statement resonates with many who have experienced depression, as the pain can become so overwhelming that the idea of feeling nothing at all seems preferable. However, the acknowledgment that “my dull eyes have brightened” offers a glimmer of hope, indicating that there can be a turnaround, even if it is gradual.
Final thoughts
“Meds” provides a raw and honest look at the struggles of depression and the coping mechanisms employed to manage it. Through references to medication, support, and the desire for emotional relief, Bruce conveys the complexities of mental health and the hope for brighter days. The song serves as a reminder that while the journey may be difficult, there is potential for healing and connection.