Almost (Sweet Music)

The song's main theme revolves around the complexities of moving on from past love while still holding on to the memories that music can evoke. Hozier uses jazz songs as symbols of connection and reflection, showing how music can carry the weight of both joy and sorrow. The lyrics reveal a journey of self-discovery and the struggle to find oneself again after heartbreak, all while being accompanied by the sweet sounds that remind him of a lost love.

Verse 1

I came in from the outside
Burnt out from the joy ride
She likes to roll here in my ashes anyway
Played from the bedside
Is "Stella By Starlight"
"That Was My Heart"...
The drums that start off "Night And Day"

In this verse, Hozier sets the scene of emotional exhaustion after a tumultuous experience. The imagery of coming in from the "outside" suggests he's been through something challenging, possibly a tough breakup. The mention of “ashes” hints at feelings of loss or destruction, yet there's a sense of comfort with someone new who embraces him despite his struggles. The references to classic jazz pieces create a warm, nostalgic backdrop, connecting his memories to the music that plays in the intimate setting of a bedroom.

Chorus

I'm almost me again, she's almost you
I wouldn't know where to start
"Sweet Music" playing "In The Dark"
Be still "My Foolish Heart,"
Don't ruin this on me

The chorus captures the delicate balance between healing and the fear of losing it all again. "Almost me" implies he’s on the path to recovery but isn’t fully there yet, while the phrase "she’s almost you" suggests that this new person carries echoes of a past love. The call for his heart to "be still" shows vulnerability and a desire not to sabotage a new connection, reflecting the tension between hope and anxiety in love.

Verse 2

Tell me who, and I'll be thanking them
The numbered lovers of Duke Ellington
Do I owe each kiss to lip and cheek as soft
As Chet can sing "Let's Get Lost"
And "Let The Good Times Roll"
Let "Smoke Rings" from this "Paper, Doll"
Blow sweet and thick 'til every thought of
"It Don't Mean A Thing"

In this verse, Hozier dives deeper into the impact of music on his memories and feelings. By referring to famous jazz musicians and their works, he acknowledges the influence of past lovers and the shared experiences associated with those songs. The playful references to jazz tunes reflect a sense of gratitude for the beauty of past relationships, even if they were fleeting. There's a hint of longing in the wish to get lost in those sweet memories, but he also recognizes that some things may not hold meaning anymore.

Chorus

I've got some colour back, she thinks so, too
I laugh like me again, she laughs like you
I wouldn't know where to start
"Sweet Music" playing "In The Dark"
Be still "My Foolish Heart,"
Don't ruin this on me

This chorus repeats the earlier themes but adds a layer of positivity. The mention of getting "some colour back" signifies healing and the return of joy. The laughter shared with the new partner indicates a genuine connection, yet the recurring plea to his "foolish heart" reveals that he's still cautious. It’s a reminder that while he’s feeling better, the fear of past hurts still lingers.

Bridge

I wouldn't know where
I wouldn't know where
I wouldn't know where, I wouldn't know where
I wouldn't
I wouldn't know where
I wouldn't know where
I wouldn't know where, I wouldn't know where

The bridge emphasizes uncertainty. The repetition of "I wouldn't know where" highlights his struggle to navigate his feelings and the path forward. It feels like a moment of introspection, where he acknowledges that despite the sweetness of the music and connection, he's still lost in his emotions. This adds depth to the song, showcasing the ongoing internal battle.

Outro

"The Very Thought Of You" and "Am I Blue"?
"A Love Supreme" seems far removed
"I Get Along Without You Very Well," some other nights
The radio news reader chimes
Reporting "Russian Lullabies"
She'll turn to me awake and ask, Is everything "Alright"

In the outro, Hozier references more jazz standards, continuing the theme of music's role in his emotional landscape. The contrast between feeling distant from "A Love Supreme" and the intimate moment with his partner shows the push and pull of his feelings. The mention of the radio and the partner's question brings a sense of grounding, suggesting that despite the chaos of his emotions, there's a desire for reassurance and connection.

Closing Thoughts

"Almost (Sweet Music)" is a beautifully crafted song that intertwines love, loss, and the power of music. Hozier's vivid imagery and heartfelt lyrics resonate with anyone who's experienced the bittersweet nature of moving on. It’s a reminder that while the past can haunt us, new connections and the right music can help us find our way back to ourselves.