Leaky Lifeboat (For Gregory Corso)

Sonic Youth · The Eternal [2009]

Leaky lifeboat

Sleeps off shore

Now we're sailing backwards

To the freaky north



My brother the wind

He's got to know

We've got to get it together

And blow



Slipping sideways

Get it straight

The siren sonars

Are tempting fate



Fates in a pleasant mood today

I don't get around much, but hey

I got to say

The sun's got to play



La, la, la, la, la, la

La, la, la, la, la, la, la



Leaky lifeboat

Called to shore

You got another

Chance to score



My brother the wind

He's got to know

We've got to get it together

And blow

Before the sun gets cold

Cold to gold



La, la, la, la, la, la

La, la, la, la, la, la, la

La, la, la, la, la, la, la

Leaky Lifeboat (For Gregory Corso)

Sonic Youth's "Leaky Lifeboat (For Gregory Corso)" appears on their 2009 album, The Eternal, marking a significant late-career release for the influential alternative rock band. Dedicated to the renowned Beat Generation poet Gregory Corso, the track reflects the group's enduring fascination with literary figures and avant-garde sensibilities. Throughout their extensive discography, Sonic Youth consistently blended experimental noise with melodic rock structures, creating a distinctive sound that defined the indie landscape for decades. This recording captures their mature approach to songwriting, balancing the band's signature dissonant guitar work with a more accessible, contemplative atmosphere. The song stands as a testament to their ability to weave cultural references into their musical tapestry, honoring a literary icon while maintaining their unique sonic identity within the broader context of their final studio albums.