“Teenage Daydream” by LEDGES – A Song Review

     A number of aspects of “Teenage Daydream” can be characterized as creatively dynamic. The song from LEDGES begins synth-heavy, but the instrumental bridge starting around 2:50 is “organic” piano. The tempo is varied and the percussion uses a range of approaches, including a one-time use of a school alarm at 2:20 and drumstick-to-metallic drum rim.

     The characterization is most appropriate when referring to the vocalization. “Teenage Daydream” takes vocal residence in a relaxed, melodic neighborhood, but makes visits to the falsetto range. Then, toward the end of the song, there is a strained-yet-pleasing lyrical yell. “Teenage Daydream” even adds vocal layering to the arrangement. In the lyrics pasted at the bottom of this post, italics represent the lyrics that are sung simultaneously with the lead vocals, but at a lower layer.

     LEDGES is based in Akron, Ohio. The members are Andy Hoffman (vocals, guitar), John Merkel (guitar), Alex Hoffman (keys, percussion), Will Hess (percussion), and Matt Gregory (bass, vocals). The band is preparing to release a full length album entitled “Homecoming,” which includes “Teenage Daydream.” The album was recorded at Oceanway Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, and was engineered by Ryan Yount with assistance from Will Hess, who also acted as producer on the album.

     “Teenage Daydream” by LEDGES 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LEDGESmusic/

Website: https://www.ledgesmusic.com/

Lyrics of “Teenage Daydream” by LEDGES

When I was your lover

I was a young man throwing stones at your window

But you would not hear me

I feel your lips around my neck

Breathing’s heavy but you’re taking softer steps

Tell me girl where is your head

Tell me girl where is your head

You weren’t there for me, there for me

When I was a younger man

You weren’t there for me, there for me

When I was a younger man

I was a younger man

When I was your beggar

I was just holding out my hands to you

But you would not give me a damn thing

I feel your lips around my neck

Breathing’s heavy, but you’re taking softer steps

Tell me girl where is your head

Tell me girl where is your head

You weren’t there for me, there for me

When I was a younger man

You weren’t there for me, there for me

When I was a younger man

I was a younger man

[Layered backing vocals]  

We both spoke so desperately behind twisted teeth at night

Careful not to hurt the other one, careful not to hurt the other one

We both shut ourselves away pretend that we are not afraid

Of moving in our own way

Of moving in our own way

When I was your lover, I was a beggar, I was a fool

You weren’t there for me when I called your name

You weren’t there for me when I was young

You weren’t there for me when I called your name