Stayed Gone (feat. Sam Haft, Christian Borle, Amir Talai & Joel Perez)

The song "Stayed Gone" from Andrew Underberg features a dramatic confrontation between two characters, Vox and Alastor, who represent different eras of media. The lyrics depict a power struggle and the clash of old versus new in the context of media dominance. Vox, who seems to be a personification of television or modern visual media, is threatened by the return of Alastor, who represents radio or perhaps a more traditional form of broadcasting. The song is set up like a showdown, with both characters trading insults and boasting about their respective media platforms.

The lyrics suggest a broader commentary on the evolution of media and the competition for audience attention. Vox's lines about pivoting to video and Alastor being a dated voice reflect real-world transitions from radio to television, and now to digital media. Alastor's return and challenge to Vox's dominance could symbolize the resurgence of retro media or the enduring value of classic forms of entertainment. The song cleverly uses the metaphor of a personal rivalry to explore these themes.

The song also touches on the idea of influence and power in the media industry. Both characters claim to be the one in control and attempt to discredit the other. The mention of Vox needing the support of the 'other Vees' and Alastor's refusal to join Vox's team adds a layer of intrigue, suggesting alliances and backdoor politics within the media landscape. The battle ends with a technical glitch, a common occurrence in the digital age, leaving the outcome of their rivalry open to interpretation.