Sexy Music

Not talking about anything profound or anything but I'd like to share my favorite band so if anyone's up for some good music and a new favorite band check them out.

So, for this post, I'd like to talk about The Dear Hunter's album "Act II: The Meaning of and All Things Regarding Ms. Leading."

Yes, there is a reason it is titled "Act II".  The Dear Hunter actually is telling a story that so far has spanned four albums.  Why do I bring up Act II?  Because it's about sex.  I thought this had a lot to do with the conversation.

So, briefly providing a bit of story.  The albums focus on a boy growing up in (what I've assumed) is pre-World War I busy city (I'm assuming New York).  He grows up with a poor, single mother (who used to be a prostitute).  Despite her luck and her vocation, his mother is still of faith.  However, she dies early (some evidence pointing a suicide) and Act II opens with the boy, now old enough to take care of himself, all alone without his mother, and no longer believing in God.

In comes Ms. Leading.  A kind woman who offers to help the main character with his loneliness.  So, what does he do?

(While listening, keep in mind it's actually two songs, each having a different message)


He is seduced by her.  And, agrees to sleep with her.  So, the first part shows the naivete of the boy as he believes Ms.  Leading and makes the wrong decision.  The second part of the song elaborates on the justification for casual sex.  How society covers it up.  That there's no harm to it.  When, obviously, there is a harm to our main character as this and his relationship with Ms. Leading influence him the rest of his life.  (Not to mention it's all taking place in a brothel)

Next comes the Bitter Suite Part III:


Which is a song about sex.  It's the actual sex.  And...it's done very tastefully.  No big butts.  No anacondas.  Just two people "embracing".  Just a summer smile and winter skin. Instead of showing lust and dirty sex, this song is just a lonely young man trying to find meaning with another individual.  Though, it is not his wife.  And the repercussions for his decision will follow him for a long time following this.

So, what will happen to our tragic hero (he seriously is a tragic hero as later albums reveal)?  Listen to the album to find out what's up with Ms. Leading and what he decides to do.  Will her learn from his mistakes and gain some wisdom?  Or will he become a cynical man, unable to trust anyone?

Since I love this band and their story so much I may post on the later albums.  Because Act IV is so worth it.