There are recurring nightmares , such as that terrifying feeling of not being able to scream, nor escape, nor ask for help in dangerous situations, feeling completely blocked and paralyzed . It is a metaphor for feeling trapped and blocked by fear, or sadness , and highlights how important it is to be listened to and find a helping hand .
This is the concept of “Paralyzed” , the latest track from Melbourne experimental indie pop band Satellite Train . In fact, as singer Michael Paynter explained , “Paralyzed” has its roots in a tragic event that marked his childhood .
As Michael said, as a child he had two very kind neighbors , but one day they decided to take their own lives . An event that deeply affected him , not only for the tragedy of the story, but also because they seemed like happy people and at peace with the world , at least “at first glance distracted from the outside” .
The artist revealed that he, too, had to face moments of desperation and when he tried to express them, maybe not directly but through small signals , the people around him did not pick up on those alarm bells . An unpleasant sensation , which made him feel “invisible, tiny and, as the title of the song suggests, paralyzed” .
Along the way, Michael realized that many other people have lived similar stories , asking for help but not being heard . “Paralyzed” therefore tries to capture, in the lyrics and music, that feeling of isolation and silent struggle that so many people face on a daily basis .
Beyond the theme, very strong and delicate , the song has a lot to tell also from a musical point of view. The song explodes with an energetic attack of high intensity indie rock drums, accompanied by electric and sparkling melodies that immediately project the listener into a vivid musical experience .
The musical opening acts as a red carpet for the entrance on stage of the volcanic voice of Michael Paynter , who with his rich and powerful timbre and his emotional strength immediately captures the listener. Behind every note you can perceive a desperate energy and every verse seems to be shouted by someone who is on the edge of the abyss , while asking for help .
In the midst of these powerful vibrations , Satellite Train have been able to create moments that are raw, unrefined, but extremely human and authentic . Music, for the band, becomes an outlet to express emotions linked to real experiences , and it is precisely this approach that makes their musical narratives so credible and true .