Soldier Boys and Jesus Freaks
First recorded: 23 Oct 2011 — Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds at Olympia Theatre, Dublin, IE
Most recent: 11 Oct 2012 — Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds at Le Transbordeur, Villeurbanne, FR
By artist
| Artist | Plays | Gigs |
|---|---|---|
| Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds | 85 | 85 |
Quick facts
- Release year
- 2011
- Lyrics
- Available
- Recorded live plays
- 85 across 85 gigs
Lyrics
All the people on the village green
Are gathered 'round their TV screens
To hear the government about to speak
For solider boys and Jesus freaks
They go to heaven on their holidays
The congregation hopes and prays
They leave their letters in the mail box
For lonely souls they could not save
Off and on I used hear the call
But she was just a baby doll
And all around them were the holy men
Who twist the words of way back when
She will kiss the sky and shelter all the world from the rain
Put on a record on the jukebox
She might dance the night away
On and on we go and the rest of the world outside
May soon explode and there is no place we might hide
On and on we go and the rest of the world outside
May soon explode and there's no place we might hide
On and on we go and we kiss this world goodbye
On and on and on and on
All the people on the village green
Are gathered 'round their TV screens
To hear the government about to speak
For solider boys and Jesus freaks
Listen / Watch
Notes
"Soldier Boys and Jesus Freaks," from Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ debut album released in 2011, reflects Noel Gallagher's commentary on the social and political landscape. Lyrically, the song touches on themes of war, religion, and the influence these forces have on individuals throughout their lives. The juxtaposition of “soldier boys” and “Jesus freaks” hints at the tension between militarism and religious fanaticism, while the narrator seeks a sense of personal freedom and truth amidst these external pressures.
Musically, the track blends Noel's signature Britpop sound with subtle orchestration and rhythmic elements, creating a layered and textured listening experience. The steady beat and acoustic strumming form the foundation of the song, while the addition of atmospheric instrumentation builds a sense of tension that reflects the lyrics’ themes of conflict and resolution.
The song’s chorus, "But only if you want it to, you can see what you want, it means everything to me," suggests that the power to change one’s perspective and circumstance lies within the individual, a recurring theme in Gallagher’s work. The song has a reflective quality, blending both personal and broader social commentary, delivered with Gallagher's trademark melodic touch.
Through its blend of introspective lyrics and compelling production, "Soldier Boys and Jesus Freaks" stands as a thought-provoking track that challenges listeners to question societal norms while maintaining Gallagher’s melodic and accessible approach to songwriting.