Blue Dream

Song Background

“Blue Dream” is a track from Dance Gavin Dance’s fourth studio album, Downtown Battle Mountain II, released on March 8, 2011.

The song is notable for its experimental blend of post-hardcore, experimental rock, and progressive rock elements. It showcases the band’s signature intricate guitar work, dynamic vocals, and complex song structures. “Blue Dream” stands out as a fan favorite, often highlighted for its compelling composition and emotive delivery.

An intriguing aspect of “Blue Dream” is a recorded phone call within the track, where vocalist Jonny Craig asks, “What color are your fucking eyes?” According to Craig, this moment stemmed from his struggles with heroin addiction during the album’s recording. He recounted being so impaired that he couldn’t recall his then-girlfriend’s eye color, leading to the candid inclusion of this personal moment in the song.

This raw and unfiltered approach adds depth to the track, reflecting the band’s willingness to incorporate real-life experiences into their music.

Interpretation

“Blue Dream” by Dance Gavin Dance is a standout track from their 2011 album Downtown Battle Mountain II, featuring their signature mix of post-hardcore, progressive rock, and experimental elements. The song is known for its chaotic yet melodic structure, contrasting clean and harsh vocals, and deeply personal lyrics.

Interpretation & Themes

1. Disorientation & Addiction

   • The song reflects themes of confusion, substance abuse, and personal struggles.
   • Jonny Craig’s infamous spoken-word section, “What color are your fucking eyes?”, is a real phone call where he was too impaired to remember his girlfriend’s eye color. This moment highlights his battle with addiction and detachment from reality.

2. Surreal, Dreamlike Imagery

   • The title “Blue Dream” could refer to the cannabis strain known for its euphoric and dreamlike effects, fitting the song’s hazy, almost hallucinatory atmosphere.
   • The lyrics create an erratic and surreal vibe, reflecting the ups and downs of altered consciousness.

3. Internal Conflict & Self-Destruction

   • Dance Gavin Dance often blends introspective themes with abstract wordplay, and “Blue Dream” is no different.
   • The interplay between Jonny Craig’s smooth, melancholic singing and Jon Mess’ frantic screams represents the tension between control and chaos, clarity and confusion.

Musical Composition

• The song features intricate guitar work, a groovy bassline, and unpredictable tempo changes.
• Will Swan’s signature riffing gives the track an upbeat feel, contrasting with the dark lyrical themes.
• Jonny Craig’s soaring, soulful vocal delivery adds an emotional weight to the song.

Overall Meaning

“Blue Dream” captures the internal turmoil of someone struggling with addiction and mental battles while portraying it in a surreal, almost detached way. The track is both introspective and chaotic, making it one of Dance Gavin Dance’s most emotionally raw and musically dynamic pieces.