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TRIGGER WARNING: discussion about trauma & suicide.
Released in 2024 by Baltimore-based rock band Making Friends As Adults, “Bad Time” delves into themes of personal struggle and resilience in the face of trauma. The lyrics depict the emotional turmoil of a person who is overwhelmed and exhausted by life’s challenges, and is on the brink of giving up ("Can't take another hit... Played this game before, just wanna flip the board"). Despite intense feelings of hopelessness, there's a persistent belief that with help and support, it is possible to overcome difficulty ("I know somehow we're gonna figure it out").
The verses touch on dark thoughts and struggles ("Inching to the edge of that poetic ledge"), but also emphasize the potential for renewal and hope ("Take your death, replace it with a breath, then this could be your year"). There's a strong message of standing by someone in their time of need ("I'll stand beside you... Whatever you need, you know I'll come right back").
The chorus offers encouragement and support to anyone facing a tough time, urging them to overcome their personal hardships ("If you're having a bad time, let's make it the last time, turn that frown fucking upside down"). It suggests shedding burdens ("Take your concrete shoes, we're gonna cut 'em loose") and diffusing destructive thoughts ("Let the bomb diffuse").
Although the lyrics explore very sobering themes, the accompanying music is up-tempo and borders on melodic pop-punk at times. The juxtaposition between the instruments and lyrics represents how individuals sometimes mask their personal struggles - convincing everyone around them that they are fine when in reality they are not. “Bad Time” also moves between 5/4, 4/4, and 3/4 time signatures and multiple tempo changes. These shifts in time and speed are meant to mimic the emotional complexity that individuals often endure when navigating trauma.
The guitar work in "Bad Time" drew inspiration from Aaron Marshall of Intervals, particularly the song "I'm Awake" from The Shape of Colour album. While our intent wasn’t to mimic that song, its influence is evident in the string skipping and use of 7ths during the intro of "Bad Time," especially in the 5/4 sections.
During the writing process, “I was immersed in instrumental guitar music, which also influenced the return to the pre-chorus after the bridge section in ‘Bad Time’,” states guitarist, Graham Twibell. This part draws from Intervals' style but also incorporates elements Twibell has seen in live performances by CHON, where similar chords are used and crowd interaction adds a lively "Woo!"
Overall, the lyrics and music blend gritty realism with a hopeful message of perseverance and support, aiming to uplift those who are struggling and encourage them to find strength amidst adversity.
If you, or anyone you know, are struggling, please reach out to someone for help or turn to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Lyrics: Leigh McNally
Songwriting Credit & Composition: Leigh McNally, Graham Twibell, Matt Severson, Kenneth Noble (Making Friends As Adults)
Recorded by/Produced: Matt Severson at Subatomic Studios
Mastered by: Justin Graham at Family Whistle Studios
Performed by:
- Leigh McNally: lead vocals
- Graham Twibell: electric guitar
- Matt Severson: bass guitar & backing vocals
- Kenneth Noble: drums
Copyright: Making Friends As Adults
Release Date: July 26, 2024