HEADPHONE JACKS

track-list:
Space Ghost
All Them Zombies
Lunatic
Black Flies
Pharaoh’s Cane
Saviour
Pawns
Discipline

music and lyrics written by Aleksi Lappalainen, Jaakko Anttonen,
J-P Herlevi, Riku-Pekka Lappalainen

Finnish alternative band Headphone Jacks has released their debut album ‘Discipline‘ on April 11th 2025 via Inverse Records.
Earlier on they had already released three singles/videos (‘Space Ghost‘, ‘Black Flies‘ and the title track ‘Discipline‘).
About the songs the band tells us:
‘Space Ghost’:
“‘Space Ghost’ is about a wild, psychedelic journey through space and time. The imagery of a ‘space machine’ that ‘screams like a wolverine’ and ‘rocks your rib cage like a raw beast’ sets the tone for an intense, high-energy experience. The song emphasizes a sense of liberation and escape from reality. The mention of passing Mercury and floating in the fifth dimension adds a cosmic, otherworldly element to the journey. The lyrics also touch on themes of time travel, exploration, and the desire for freedom. Overall, the song celebrates the thrill of adventure and the pursuit of an unreal, transcendent reality.”
‘Them Zombies’:
“The lyrics create a chaotic and desperate atmosphere about inner turmoil and the difficulty of maintaining fairness. There are repeated warnings about lies and the need to recognize the truth suggesting a theme of deception and the struggle to see reality clearly. There are references to religion and passivity add a layer of existential questioning, with urging a decision and the pursuit of a prize. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of conflict, deception, and the search for truth amidst chaos.”
‘Lunatic’:
“‘Lunatic’ conveys a sense of isolation and struggle in a harsh, unforgiving environment. The song’s main character feels abandoned and left to fend for themselves with a sense of impending doom. But there is resilience in the face of adversity. Overall, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a struggle against overwhelming odds and the search for meaning in a harsh, unforgiving world.”
‘Black Flies’:
“‘Black Flies’ is about themes of darkness, fear, and existential exploration. It speaks of being born into overwhelming fear and the inevitability of existence. There is a search for meaning and purpose outside conventional norms. The imagery of a single tear in darkness and the fate of disappearing highlights a sense of sorrow and inevitability. The lyrics also touch on themes of sacrifice and rituals. Mention of black flies and the struggle to escape them adds a sense of entrapment and despair. The lyrics repeatedly call to run away and not look back emphasizing a desire for escape and liberation. Overall, the lyrics explore deep and complex emotions, painting a vivid picture of a journey through darkness and the search for meaning and freedom.”
‘Pharaoh’s Cane’:
“The song title ‘Pharaoh’s Cane’ symbolizes a crushing, authoritarian power that inflicts pain and suffering. The lines about cosmic winds and ancient spirits add a mystical element, hinting at forces beyond human control that contribute to the sense of doom. Overall, the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a struggle against overwhelming odds and the search for meaning in a harsh, unforgiving world.”
‘Savior’:
“The lyrics capture a sense of emotional turmoil and introspection. They suggest a deep sense of vulnerability and fragmentation. Despite this, there is a paradoxical sense of pleasure in the midst of pain. There’s lines about a savior and selling one’s soul hint at themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and the search for redemption. The repeated questioning about the worth of such sacrifices and the ultimate destination – heaven or hell – adds a layer of existential contemplation. The final lines of the song convey a sense of anger and accusation. Overall, the lyrics explore complex emotions and the human condition in a raw and evocative manner.”
‘Pawns Can’t Be Kings’:
“‘Pawns’ is an almost instrumental song. The main theme of the composition is the layered guitar riff that both opens and ends the song. The song title ‘Pawns Can’t Be Kings’ is often used metaphorically to convey the idea that those in lower positions or with limited power cannot easily ascend to positions of great authority or influence.”
‘Discipline’:
“The lyrics paint a vivid picture of introspection and self-discovery. The imagery of an ‘alabaster angel’ falling in slow motion suggests a moment of realization or awakening. The dream sequence where the vocalist floats above themselves and locks eyes with their own reflection symbolizes a deeper understanding of their soul’s freedom. The repeated lines about emancipation, discipline, and listening highlight the importance of self-discipline and honest communication in achieving true freedom. The lyrics also touch on themes of disconnecting from societal systems and finding balance within oneself. Overall, the song seems to explore the journey towards personal liberation and inner peace.”