Ever feel like you're the only sane person in a world gone mad? Well, you're not alone. "Always Foreign," the third studio album by the band The World Is a Beautiful Place & I Am No Longer Afraid to Die, captures the spirit of political conservativism in this era of chaos. Released on September 29, 2017, the album speaks volumes about who we are, what we stand for, and why standing this ground is necessary.
Who would've thought that an indie rock band from Willimantic, Connecticut, could capture the essence of what it means to be a political outsider? To be 'Always Foreign' in your thoughts and beliefs amidst a sea of ideological conformity. The album is a clarion call to those who feel like outsiders in their own country, who feel left out by a culture that increasingly labels traditional values as antiquated.
First, let’s talk about the world we’re living in—an ever-changing global society where boundaries seem to blur, and national identity faces a constant existential threat. With the relentless barrage of propaganda from the usual media conglomerates, who try to dictate what you should think, it's invigorating to see an album that challenges the conventional narrative.
Second, there's the political punch. If you’re tired of being told patriotism is passé or that nationalism is the boogeyman of the modern world, this album acts as a rebel anthem. Tracks like "Marine Tigers" have echoes of the complex themes surrounding immigration and identity politics. They discuss the deep-seated feeling of being 'always foreign,' not just in terms of geography, but ideologically too.
Third, it’s about reclaiming what’s been lost. In a culture that puts everything old on trial and glorifies new-age philosophies that often lack substance or history, you find yourself constantly being foreign. You stand by the chest-thumping pride of your national identity, and yes, sometimes that means you’re on the outside looking in. That’s a badge of courage, not shame.
Fourth, how about personal integrity? As the digital world crowds you with fake news so often you need an umbrella, it's refreshing to have an album that prioritizes integrity over popularity. “For Robin” explores the themes of mental health and loyalty to one's self, something akin to sticking to your belief system, irrespective of how the wind blows.
Fifth, it’s about relationships and community, something the left frequently hijacks, painting everything in black and white. But the relationships we foster are nuanced and built on mutual respect, something this album highlights in its intricate lyrics. Not everything is as cut and dry as those on the far-left make it seem.
Sixth, the poetic rebellion against cultural appropriation without understanding. This is a two-fold issue: the liberal cultural elite love to appropriate values they neither understand nor respect, and then condemn others for proudly holding on to the same. The contradictions are palpable, and the absurdity is hard to ignore.
Seventh, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of musical composition which backs lyrics with an unyielding force. Battles aren’t fought with words alone. The instrumentation in “Always Foreign” provides a relentless backdrop to its powerful ideology. Every chord stands as a challenge against the dilution of values.
Eighth, no conversation about cultural conservatism in modern music could exclude community. This album isn't just about individual struggle; it speaks to a collective group of like-minded individuals who see themselves as underdogs in an ideological battleground.
Ninth, the album tackles the unnecessary guilt piled upon traditionalists for merely existing. The modern media machine often depicts political conservativism as a plague. "Always Foreign" rebels against this false narrative, reinforcing the idea that it's okay to not just exist but thrive in your beliefs.
Tenth, you’ll find that being 'always foreign' isn't just a disadvantage. In fact, it makes you unique, a beacon of hope for others feeling the same way. This outsider status is your strength, not a weakness. It's your commitment to standing your ground and being a bulwark against ideological tyranny.
"Always Foreign" may not have been designed to fight political battles, but it sure ends up doing so—one song at a time. It applauds you for staying authentic to yourself, and it champions the cause of being unapologetically out of place, to own that label not as a slur, but as a badge of honor.