Working In The Coal Mine
Devo · Pioneers Who Got Scalped [2000]
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Well I been workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Five o'clock in the mornin?
I'm up before the sun
When my work day is over
I'm too tired for havin? fun
I been workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Lord I am so tired
How long can this go on?
Well, I been workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Five o'clock in the mornin?
I'm up before the sun
When my work day is over
I'm too tired for havin? fun
I been workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Workin? in a coal mine
Goin? down, down
Workin? in a coal mine
Whew! About to slip down
Lord I am so tired
How long can this go on?
I been workin?, goin?, workin?
Whew! About to slip down
...
Working In The Coal Mine
Devo's 'Working In The Coal Mine' stands as a stark, industrial anthem from their 2000 compilation 'Pioneers Who Got Scalped.' The track exemplifies the band's signature blend of electronic textures and satirical social commentary, a hallmark of their post-1970s evolution. While Devo is best known for their 1970s proto-punk and new wave hits, this recording reflects their enduring commitment to exploring dystopian themes and the human condition through a unique, robotic lens. The song's driving rhythm and repetitive, chant-like vocals create a hypnotic atmosphere that underscores the grim reality of labor and industrialization. It serves as a testament to Devo's ability to maintain their distinct sonic identity decades after their initial breakthrough, offering a chilling glimpse into their continued artistic vision.