The meaning of New Pollution by Beck

New Pollution is a song by American musician Beck, from his 1994 album Stereopathic Soulmanure. The track features Beck's signature blend of folk, rock, and hip-hop elements, with lyrics that explore themes of environmental degradation and societal apathy.

The song's title, "New Pollution," references the growing concern over pollution in the early 1990s, particularly in the wake of the Exxon Valdez oil spill. Beck's lyrics delve into the consequences of human neglect and waste, using vivid imagery to describe the damage done to the natural world. In the opening lines, he sings about a "chemical reaction" that's "eating away at our brains," hinting at the ways in which environmental toxins can affect human cognition.

Throughout the song, Beck's delivery is characterized by his distinctive vocal style, which veers between spoken word and melodic singing. His lyrics are peppered with clever wordplay and biting social commentary, as he raps about the complacency of modern society and the need for greater awareness. The chorus, featuring a catchy hook and prominent guitar riff, drives home Beck's message: that we must take action to mitigate the effects of pollution and protect our planet.

Musically, "New Pollution" features Beck's signature blend of folk, rock, and hip-hop elements, with a driving beat and distinctive guitar work. The track has been praised for its innovative production and Beck's incisive lyrics, which offer a scathing critique of environmental neglect. Overall, "New Pollution" is a standout track from an album that showcases Beck's early experimentation with genre-bending sounds.