Wounded Knee
Bear Quartet · Moby Dick [1997]
Along the railway line
Haven't seen you this happy
In a long time
Since the last decade
Seems all the bad bottles finally paid off
Seems all you sad lovers
Gather moss
But the sun is in the bay
Loose on a quiet day
With an endurance of three
I got down on my good knee
Good hand on the wounded
With one sentence I'd destroy it all
But nature cooled it
So call it a draw
You got your teenage memorial
And I got free alcohol
Drunk and alone
On a road called home
The story's old
But I won't let go
Wounded Knee
Released on the 1997 album Moby Dick, "Wounded Knee" is a haunting track by the Bear Quartet that exemplifies their signature blend of folk, punk, and experimental rock. The song features the group's characteristic interplay between acoustic guitars and distorted electric guitars, creating a dynamic tension that mirrors the album's broader exploration of American history and social commentary. As a key component of their discography, the recording showcases the quartet's ability to weave narrative-driven lyrics with aggressive musical textures, establishing them as a significant voice in the indie-folk revival of the late 1990s. The track remains a defining example of their work, capturing the raw energy and intellectual depth that have cemented their reputation in the music industry.