Earlier in the week we talked to Samira Winter about her impending move to Los Angeles, and what it means for the hazy, dream-pop band that bears her surname. As Winter the band plays the second of two farewell shows tonight at T.T. The Bear’s Place in Cambridge, Winter the songwriter has one last song to unveil before the big move out west. And the subject of the California-kissed “Alligator” is very timely.
“The song is actually about the doubt between staying in Boston and moving to LA,” Winter tells Vanyaland. “I wrote the lyrics when I was on spring break this last March and went to visit my Emerson friends in LA. They showed me a great time (In N Out, Mulholland Drive), and I really fell in love with California’s overall vibe. I jammed with my friend Tyler (Cloud from Practice Room Records), and David Broyles. Tyler helped me write the lyrics and we had the best time that afternoon singing ‘so down’ really loud.”
Vanyaland is proud to present the premiere of “Alligator,” which you can listen to and download below. After the jump, check out Winter’s personalized lyrics, as well as the single’s artwork and live video of the song performed live recently at the Middle East’s Boston Fuzzstival. Video shot by Bob Colby.
You’re my alligator
The holy creation
You don’t even have to tell me why
I just want to see
Address you in my letters
Take me to your favorite In N Out
What’s been on your mind
On the drive-thru line
Magic hour plays its tricks
Glad we didn’t miss it
And you’re the reason why
I never feel down
And you’re the reason why
I never feel down
So down, so down
You’re my alligator
Next to David Broyles
Dancing out to Earth, Wind and Fire
Can’t believe you live here
Work in Santa Monica
Lo-fi on Mulholland Drive
Cause I keep wondering too
If I should move here soon
But I’ll miss my Boston life
And leave my boy behind
And you’re the reason why
I never feel down
And you’re the reason why
I never feel down
So down, so down
