It is unbelievably easy for me to tell you about the top 10 songs by Portishead, considering they are some of my personal favorites. This group has a sound which is like no other and when listening, you find yourself feeling the song–not simply listening. Portishead; formed in 1991, is from Bristol England. They have become one of the most popular trip-hop performers in the UK and America alike. The band was brought together by song writer Geoff Barrow and former bar singer, Beth Gibbons and together, their lyrics and sounds are phenomenal — definitely unforgettable. Let’s look at the top 10 outrageously addictive songs!
1.) Portishead-Glory Box; from the Dummy album. Through sensual beats and catchy rhythms; Glory Box is very addictive. It is fatal in its cry for strength.
2.) Portishead-Sour Times; from the Dummy album. On, the haunted sound and lyrics of this one truly peirce the listener. The craving and desperate pleas to be loved are dark and hopeless. This is a very emotional song.
3.) Portishead-Wandering Star; from the Dummy album. Does the song speak of wandering in the darkness or does it just speak of the pain and acceptance of the darkness? Either way, this passionate peice can bring tears to the eyes as its soulfulness permeate the ears. One of their best songs ever,in my opinion.
4.) Portishead-Roads; from the Dummy album. The tragedy of this song peirces the heart. Underneath the cover of torment are little buds of hope. Despite the feelings of overwhelming sadness; there is a fight for understanding. The soft flow of Roads only barely covers its deep intensity.
5.) Portishead-All mine; from the Portishead album. This song’s mysterious lyrics are quite creepy. Although they seem like the devotion of a lover to another; their is something a little off about the song. An underlying fatal emotion lies just beneath the surface.
6.) Portishead-Humming; from the Portishead album. The beginning of this song makes one think of sound effects in a paranormal film. The ghostly wail adds mystery to the atmosphere when listening to this song at night. Like so many of Portishead’s songs; Humming reveals a damaged and frail sanity which somehow keeps you wondering at the meaning.
7.) Portishead-Western eyes; from the Portishead album. Most think this song represents disdain for the Western world. But with lyrics such as these; one could conceive many meanings.
8.) Portishead-Over; from the Portishead album. This song makes makes you think that the singer is trying to play a part of role and the role is coming unraveled. I love the ‘scratching’ on this song paired with smooth lyrics.
9.) Portishead-Only you; from the Portishead album. I do not know the meaning of this one but its beat is really nice. The pauses bring anticipation and excitement to the creepy undertone of the song. I love it!
10.) Portishead-Magic Doors; from the Third album. This song is amazing because the sound and lyrics convey so much confusion. A brilliant peice with mesmerizing lyrics and an overall pleasantly frustrating feel.
I simply love Portishead. These observations of the songs are only opinion based. Check them out sometimes. I believe you will love the sound and become addicted as I did.
