Debonair was the first song I ever heard by Afghan Whigs, and it captivated me from the start. The funky guitar at the beginning, the lyrics, Greg Dulli’s voice, it all comes together really nicely.
The subject matter is interesting too (and pretty much in line with most of the rest of the Whigs’ work). A man–and not a good man either–has done something to a woman, precisely what is a little unclear. Has he beaten her, cheated on her, or simply not lived up to his part of the relationship? Still, despite the murkiness, I think the lyrics are truly excellent.
And of course, the lyrics:
Hear me now and don’t forget
I’m not the man my actions would suggest
A little boy, I’m tied to you
I fell apart
That’s what I always do
This ain’t about regret
My conscience can’t be found
This time I won’t repent
Somebody’s going down
Feel it now and don’t resist
This time the anger’s better than the kiss
I must admit when so inclined
I tend to lose it than confront my mind
‘Cause it don’t bleed and it don’t breathe
It’s locked its jaws and now it’s swallowing
It’s in our heart
It’s in our head
It’s in our love
Baby it’s in our bed
Tonight I go to hell
For what I’ve done to you
This ain’t about regret
It’s when I tell the truth
And once again the monster speaks
Reveals its face and searches for release
A little boy is tied to you
Attracted only ’til it comes unglued
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