Shut the World Out by Kasbo ft. Frida Sundemo is a song that delves into the deep longing for escapism and the pursuit of solace in a relationship amidst the chaos of the outside world. The lyrics paint a picture of a couple who find tranquility in each other's company and consciously choose to ignore the external reality, creating a private haven 'under the surface' where they can be at peace.
Kasbo and Frida Sundemo's creation embodies the emotional landscape of two souls who have decided to retreat into a sanctuary crafted from their collective imaginations. The journey begins with an acknowledgment of a regressive state ('We're moving backwards'), hinting at a reality that is ashen and uninspiring. Shaped by a desire to disconnect, the song captures the turmoil of a modern world that becomes too overwhelming, drawing them to yearn for a serene retreat. The refrain 'We're slumbering in ashes' ushers the listeners into a narrative of indifference or perhaps exhaustion with the state of affairs, solidifying the need to look inward for reprieve.
The chorus erupts as a powerful and melodic refusal to acknowledge a world that may not align with their idea of what's real and what's illusions. When Kasbo and Frida Sundemo sing 'As long as we can see when we close our eyes', they assert that their shared vision, untainted by the world’s clamor, is all they deem necessary for their reality. A journey of isolation turns into a comforting one — shutting out the world transforms into a shared affirmation of their existence and a redefinition of what holds significance.
The second verse enters a quieter, more introspective space. Here, 'Under the surface', serves as a metaphor for delving into the depth of their consciousness where the noise of life is muffled. It's where they become oblivious to the roar of society, creating their own metaphorical oceanic retreat. 'Turning the circles to runways' can be visualized as turning inanity into opportunities for elevation, a whimsical twist to the chaos of life that only they understand and appreciate.
Despite the song's predominantly dreamy and tranquil nature, there is an undercurrent of tension that persists. The repetitive 'Wake up' in the refrain is piercing, almost as if it's a reminder of the inevitable return to reality that lurks just beyond their created utopia. Yet, the song does not conclude with a surrender to reality. Instead, it steadfastly holds onto the ideal, as they resolve to 'shut the world out', an emphatic coda to their emotional journey.
"We're moving backwards, We're slumbering in ashes"
These lines capture the sense of stagnation and deterioration the characters feel in their current reality, prompting their desire to find solace in escapism.
"As long as we can see when we close our eyes"
Represents the power of the imagination and the couple's chosen reality over the external world they wish to shut out.
"Twenty feet deep in the ocean, we're rising"
This line suggests a rebirth or an ascension from the depths of their own created world, which offers a sense of hope and transformation.
"Wake up, wake up, wake up"
These words act as a stark, jarring counter to the dreamlike state the rest of the song finds itself in, introducing a sense of urgency or perhaps the inevitability of confronting reality.