Trapped in the High of Your Lies | Consume | Chase Atlantic

Chase Atlantic, an Australian alternative R&B band, has always been known for their lyrical depth, blending multiple genres effortlessly to create an immersive and compelling sound. Their song 'Consume,' off their 2019 album 'Phases,' is no exception, providing listeners with a profound exploration of the struggles around destructive relationships and addiction.

'Consume' starts with a vibrant melody that is alluring yet melancholic, setting the mood for the introspective narrative that is about to unfold. The band's frontman, Mitchel Cave, steps into the shoes of the protagonist, seemingly embroiled in a toxic relationship, painting an intricate picture of the internal turmoil experienced.

The key refrain of the song, "I love it when we're high, wish we could be like that all time", emphasizes the cyclical nature of consuming love and intoxicating substances. Through this candid confession, the song passionately underscores the destructive cycle that people trapped in addictive behaviours often find themselves in.

The raw honesty woven throughout the song is underscored in lines like "I hate it when you lie, I know when you're high". This line provides an insightful glimpse into the labyrinth of contradictions common in such toxic experiences - a perverse intimacy born out of shared secrets but riddled with deceit.

In the song's outro, Mitchel repeatedly sings "I’ll never learn, I’ll never learn", which encapsulates the resignation and hopelessness often felt in addictive cycles. This sentiment further amplifies the song's central theme and reiterates the harsh reality faced by many battling addiction.

'Consume' is a powerful song, carrying a poignant message about the devastating effects of addiction - whether to substances or toxic relationships. Chase Atlantic, through their evocative lyrics and soulful melody, offer an intense portrayal of such intricate emotions, leaving listeners with much to contemplate.

As with many of Chase Atlantic’s songs, 'Consume' delivers a biting social commentary wrapped up in a seductive melody. In doing so, their music touches the heart and invigorates the mind, transforming the listening experience into an introspective journey. Through their compelling storytelling and emotive delivery, they allow listeners to explore the depths of human emotion and the complexity of life’s dark corners.