I remember talking with a friend a few years back about art being about communication. While I hesitate to call what I create “art,” I’m definitely trying to communicate &, perhaps ideally (or even idealistically?), promote a social bond.

The idea and flourish of lyrics for “Can We Talk?” came pretty quickly. The following songs came to mind: War’s “Why Can’t We Be Friends?”, XTC’s “No Language in Our Lungs,” and even Triumph’s “Lay It on the Line.” It could make an interesting mashup. (Others  came to mind, but some in title only: King Crimson’s “Elephant Talk” (I remembered Adrian Belew’s vocalizing of “Talk”), Tears for Fears’ “Shout,” & Spandau Ballet’s “Communication”).

Those of you who know me will not be surprised with the XTC reference, but I don’t think that I’ve ever written a song that sounded anything like them. Mostly I guess I’m trying to sound like me – with the hope that someone else might get something out of these selfish acts of indulgence.

Let’s start the conversation. (I’ve posted the initial lyrical ideas below & an initial taste of the musical idea which seemed to come out Jethro Tull-ish or even a might like Cat Stevens).

-UndebatEd

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Can We Talk?

While I might not sing beautifully
Will you listen anyway?

Is across the aisle
Out of reach?

If we can’t be friends
Perhaps we can at least negotiate

I’ll lay it right there on the line
While trying not to cross it

Why do you cry out for war?
Peace shout

With me
Not just to me
More than one-way

The air is hot
Even blustering

Speech
Debate
Argument/Argue

Language(s) is/are dying (extinction)

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