The Sea

This morning, “The Sea” by the English electronic trio Morcheeba came on random play as I ate breakfast, read and passively listened to music.

I’ve previously posted two songs by Morcheeba, both from the same album: “Otherwise” and “Charango” (which is the title track of the 2002 collection). In “Otherwise,” I briefly mention today’s selection… so I figured it’s about time I shared it!

“The Sea” is a relaxed piece with a string ensemble underneath and accentuating the bluesy guitar in a kaleidoscope of musical colours that combine to keep the mood easy but interesting and engaging alongside a chill, slightly downtempo beat. The song tells of leaving one’s soul at the seaside—a vacation playland—and escaping from the pressures, worries and drudgery of daily life, the senses filled with the sights, sounds and aromas while walking along the shoreline.

“Flocking to the sea
Crowds of people wait for me
Sea gulls scavenge
Steal ice cream
Worries vanish
Within my dream

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

Fishing boats sail past the shore
No singing may-day any more
The sun is shining
The water’s clear
Just you and I walk along the pier

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

A cool breeze flows but mind the wasp
Some get stung it’s worth the cost
I’d love to stay
The city calls me home
More hassles fuss and lies on the phone

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control here
Living free

I left my soul there,
Down by the sea
I lost control with you,
And living, living,
And I, living, by the sea”

“The Sea,” by Ross Godfrey, Paul David Godfrey and Skye Edwards.
Lyrics retrieved from AZLyrics.com.

“The Sea” is the opening track from the group’s second studio release, Big Calm (1998). Of the album, Apple Music says, “In the hands of Tricky, Portishead, and Massive Attack, trip-hop earned a reputation for being dark, even claustrophobic. On their second album, though, Morcheeba preserved the style’s sedate tempos and sultry atmospheres while opening up a world of warmth and colour. Hip-hop beats and turntable scratches are fleshed out with acoustic guitars, country blues, a splash of reggae, and even sitar, while singer Skye Edwards holds the spotlight with her hushed, soulful delivery. As the cover art underscores, it’s best heard in a horizontal position.”

That description sounds about right for today. Yesterday was hectic, and I felt depleted despite having an enjoyable time at the Crankie Festival. I awoke a little later today and am planning on taking it easy. Listening to Big Calm is a good start.

Now you know a little about why this is my Song of the Day for Today. Thanks for joining me here. Please enjoy the audio from the Morcheeba YouTube channel:

With my best wishes,

Steve