In “Gadarene,” LIKETHEHOTELS offers a withering indictment of greed, corruption and societal degeneration through vivid, biting lyrics. Strong imagery and biblical allusions are employed by the song in order to deliver a strong message about how uncontrolled power and wealth can be destructive.

The opening lines paint a raw picture by likening the object to “little piggy living in the city” with “pretty little lipstick”. This sets the tone of the song by showing just how empty it is to live for material gain and social status. The words “everybody you kiss has got red on their lips” implies that there is widespread corruption even in small seemingly innocent acts.

A refrain, “You can’t buy yourself a low tide,” reminds people that no amount of money can guard against life’s inevitable highs and lows. The biblical reference to “The Legion into swine” draws an analogy between greedy rich men and damned swine.

It is evident as one listens to this song that rather than criticizing individual actions, LIKETHEHOTELS is targeting systemic corruption. The lines, “They’ve got you on your knees from sea to shining sea,” condemn the entire system which perpetuates inequality and exploitation. To be repeated over again is the call for a culling of the herd indicating need for significant shift which must take place.

However, these last words are also apocalyptic: ‘The shore will rise to drown you… the diamonds, silk, gold will be submerged.’ In this concluding epitome lies its message; it is impossible for riches to protect people from moral erosion.

LIKETHEHOTELS’ “Gadarene” is an intense lyrically delivered thought-provoking piece that overtly criticizes excesses of those who are privileged while inviting listeners to consider effects brought about by greed and corruption.