Throwing Muses' "Snakeface"

"Snakeface" is a song on the Throwing Muses' album, University. Released in 1995, University was the last major record label album produced by the band. Despite the positive reception of the album, which included its first national hit song, "Bright Yellow Gun", poor sales led Sire, the record label that produced University, to drop the band from the label. "Snakeface" received a positive reception from music critics upon its release, and it exemplifies the musical style of Throwing Muses.

Musical Qualities of "Snakeface"

The song begins with an otherworldly intro with a percussion crescendo before a stark pause. The song picks up with an eerie vocal harmony that many music critics describe as hallucinatory. Kristin Hersh provides the lead vocals for the piece, giving her typical demure yet powerful delivery.

Interpretation of "Snakeface"

There are various possible interpretations of the song "Snakeface." The most literal interpretation of the song is that the singer is describing an failed intimate encounter at a drive-in move theater. The singer puts forth a coy attitude, telling her suitor that he can meet her next week, but that she is a lousy liar, implying that the singer is leading her suitor on with no intent of following through on the encounter. An alternative interpretation is possible, based on Hersh's history of mental illness and her willingness to describe it in her music. Following this interpretation, the singer is flirting with the idea of madness and insanity, ultimately resisting the urge.

"Snakeface" is exemplary of Throwing Muses' style. Hersh's disembodied voice and surreal lyrics typify the band's musicality, especially on later albums like University.