Explanation.

Perfect Depth

from Westing (by Musket and Sextant)

originally appeared on Demolition Plot J-7

Malkmus' lyrics are buried so deep in the mix of this early track it's next to impossible to make out what he's singing. Only at one moment does the music quiet down enough to hear him exclaim, "I wasted it all on you." A decent set of headphones and an attentive ear can make out the rest of his lyrics, but like a lot of the singles collected on Westing, it seems the last thing Malkmus wanted was for anyone to think he was being sincere. On the other hand, Malkmus does sound like he's trying to sing out, but the instrumental portion of the song drowns him out. The out-of-place guitar lick that ends the song sounds like REM, portending a more melodic and confident band that wouldn't be afraid to step outside the comfort zone of its shoegazing brethren and rock the club with a catchy hook or two.