Eyes Are Mosaics (feat. Harold Budd)

The song 'Eyes Are Mosaics' by Cocteau Twins, featuring Harold Budd, is a vivid tapestry of urban imagery and abstract expression. The lyrics paint a picture of bustling city life, with references to various London locales such as Feltham, Chelsea, and Marylebone. The repeated phrase 'The city dada' suggests a chaotic, almost surreal experience of the city, reminiscent of the Dada art movement known for its embrace of absurdity and rejection of conventional aesthetics. This aligns with the Cocteau Twins' signature ethereal and enigmatic style, which often leaves much to the listener's interpretation.

The song's lyrics also delve into themes of speed and disorientation. Phrases like 'When will this thing go faster?' and 'Can’t wait to go fast now' convey a sense of urgency and impatience, perhaps reflecting the fast-paced nature of urban life. The mention of 'small-time central Poli' and 'bad-apple raise-your-hands-up town' adds to the sense of disarray and dissatisfaction, hinting at a deeper critique of societal norms and the monotony of daily routines. The recurring motif of 'diamond crazy' juxtaposes the allure of wealth and glamour with the cheapness and superficiality of such pursuits.

The collaboration with Harold Budd, known for his ambient and minimalist compositions, adds another layer of complexity to the song. His influence can be felt in the atmospheric quality of the music, which complements the dreamlike and fragmented nature of the lyrics. The song's structure, with its repetitive and looping phrases, mirrors the cyclical and often overwhelming experience of city life. Ultimately, 'Eyes Are Mosaics' captures the multifaceted and often contradictory nature of urban existence, blending beauty with chaos, and clarity with confusion.