Song meaning of Accordion (Four Tet Remix) by Madvillain

The song "Accordion (Four Tet Remix)" by Madvillain is a complex and introspective track that delves into themes of mortality, fame, and the duality of success. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist living on borrowed time, with the clock ticking faster as they navigate a world filled with danger and deception. Lines like "Livin' off borrowed time, the clock tick faster" and "That'd be the hour they knock the slick blaster" set the tone for a narrative that is both urgent and ominous.

The song also touches on the idea of artistic integrity and the struggle to maintain authenticity in the face of commercial pressures. The lyric "Keep your glory, gold and glitter, for half of his niggas'll take him out the picture" suggests a disdain for superficial success and a desire to stay true to one's roots. The protagonist is portrayed as a skilled wordsmith, with "more lyrics than the church got 'Ooh Lords'" and a commanding presence on the mic that demands attention.

The chorus, with lines like "Slip like Freudian, your first and last step to playin' yourself like accordion," hints at the pitfalls of ego and self-deception, warning against falling into traps of one's own making. The reference to an accordion, an instrument that expands and contracts like the human psyche, serves as a metaphor for the complexities of self-awareness and self-sabotage.

Overall, "Accordion (Four Tet Remix)" is a thought-provoking and multi-layered track that showcases Madvillain's lyrical prowess and their ability to explore deep themes within the framework of a hip-hop song. The remix by Four Tet adds a unique sonic texture to the track, enhancing its introspective and introspective qualities.