Black Out Days

Phantogram's 'Black Out Days' is a haunting track that delves into the themes of mental turmoil and the desire to escape from overwhelming thoughts and memories. The lyrics suggest a struggle with inner demons and the need to distance oneself from a past that continues to haunt the present. The repeated phrase 'Stay away' emphasizes a strong desire for separation, possibly from a person or a traumatic experience that has left a deep impact on the individual's psyche.

The imagery of 'a thousand voices howling in my head' and 'hearing voices all the time and they're not mine' conveys the feeling of being overwhelmed by thoughts or memories that the person cannot control. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, where intrusive thoughts are a common symptom. The reference to 'black out days' could symbolize periods of time that the individual wishes to forget or erase due to their painful nature.

Musically, Phantogram is known for their blend of electronic music with elements of psych pop, trip hop, and shoegaze. This creates a soundscape that complements the song's themes, with ethereal and sometimes dissonant sounds that mirror the chaotic and distressing mental state described in the lyrics. The song's atmosphere is one of both introspection and urgency, as if the protagonist is in a constant battle to keep the darkness at bay.