On There’s No Time For Presents, THE BURBS set forth a series of songs of pain, guilt, and self-doubt in a style that sounds both unvarnished and thoughtful. It struggles with the emotional consequences of having witnessed someone go through trauma, or possibly violence, and to still have lingering doubt as to whether anything more was possible. THE BURBS’s portrayal of that sort of thing isn’t in terms of dramatic storytelling or imposed imagery, but in a style that sounds intimate, grounded, and unblinkingly truthful.

The song begins by describing a kind of hopelessness that seems to have a genetic or innate component, trapped in a situation chosen by outside forces. The lack of control over a situation is pointed out by reference to a lack of caring or providing, a family member or authority figure. The tone is matter-of-fact and frustrated, but it effectively describes how betrayal and abandonment can linger, especially if it involves someone dear to you.

What’s striking in the song is THE BURBS juxtaposing that rage with quiet moments of sadness and fidelity. Phrases that imply staying with someone day by day, watching as they hurt, or staying with them through their recovery (or perhaps dying days), express a deep feeling of commitment. Those moments contrast with what came before them, which shows that love and sympathy existed even in the midst of it. The manner in which those moments recur (the flowers, the balloon, the room) also speaks to the manner in which trauma inscribes in memory. Those quiet, little moments find their way more strongly into the brain than the explosive ones.

THE BURBS also introduces community as a concept in a quiet but potent way. The manner in which the private hurt becomes public rumour, how a problem which was previously quiet is now talked about far and wide, contributes to the pain. It’s not only a private feeling which pains, but also the way that other people now perceive, speak, and think about it. This perception of vulnerability can be a double blow.

The chorus approximates a “nice weight” lifted, sounding almost sarcastic or ambivalent. The line can be taken as referencing people stating that hearing or confronting an ugly truth will make you better, then inquiring if it does, or if it only prompts more questions. The repeated, blank question “what happens at the times that you’re not sure” is the emotional axis of the song. That’s where all doubt, regret, and powerlessness land. THE BURBS don’t try to resolve it, which is why the lyrics have such an impact. They let the unknown stand in place of imposing a resolution.

For the most part, There’s No Time For Presents holds softly potent lyrics. THE BURBS speak in a way that isn’t overly poetic for its own sake, but in a way that’s real and to the point. The song allows room for confusion, rage, anxiety, remorse all at once. It’s a reminder that even though we feel like we’ve failed or didn’t do enough, a number of other people out in the world feel those same things, and in itself, that can be a solace.