Beck is known for his “kitchen sink” approach to music. Funk, folk, hip-hop, country, hard rock—it all gets thrown in with electronica, samples, and whatever else is lying around.
Beck’s lyrics are no less eclectic. Images and idioms are strung together in a sorta street-smart surrealism. I often get what he’s saying without rationally understanding, if you know what I mean 😉
“Lord Only Knows” is a favorite song of mine that showcases all the non-perfect-sense-icalness I’ve come to love about Beck. With wry irony, the lyrics paint a picture of someone trying to carnival-ride the sinking ship of their life.
For the full Beck-effect, listen to the song. But here are the first two verses to get you started:
You only got one finger left
And it’s pointing at the door
And you’re taking for granted
What the Lord’s laid on the floor
So I’m picking up the pieces
And I’m putting them up for sale
Throw your meal ticket out the window
Put your skeletons in jail
