Birth Ritual

Soundgarden · Telephantasm [2010]

Lying like needles

On forest earth

Euphoric rush

Trees bend to pray for us

I'm sputtering

Like cold machines

Late for the birth ritual, ritual, ritual, ritual

You can drive my tail

To watch the circus

A (birth?) ritual

A birth of idiots

Now I woke up blessed

And good strives for heart ache

Marked for the death ritual, ritual, ritual

[Chorus]

As you start the song

And face this garden

I light a cigarette before the execution

Now you see your crime

For every miracle

Add another drug at every birth ritual

I took the drug

To make me stay

And now everything

Dies in shyness

The snake retreats

Admits defeat

And waits for the birth ritual, ritual, ritual

(Chorus)

Shining light

Child's highs

Mark his sides

Bright until the newness wears off

(Chorus)

Birth Ritual

Birth Ritual stands as a defining track from Soundgarden's 2010 album Telephantasm, marking the band's return to recording after a long hiatus. The song captures the group's signature blend of heavy grunge textures and psychedelic experimentation, driven by Chris Cornell's dynamic vocal range and Kim Thayil's intricate guitar work. As part of the band's final studio album before their tragic conclusion, the recording reflects a mature evolution of their sound, balancing aggressive riffs with atmospheric depth. The track contributes significantly to the album's exploration of darker themes and complex arrangements, showcasing the Seattle legends' enduring ability to craft immersive sonic landscapes. It remains a testament to the band's creative resilience and their lasting impact on alternative rock history.