The Ruin After The Rain
Adrian Belew · Op Zop Too Wah [1996]
In the light of sacred things
And you felt oblivious to any sort of pain
When it first began to rain
Then there came the steady flow
Slowly like a flood
Sweeping over everything and turning into mud
Why?
Is there nothing sacred left, nothing to hold on to?
Is there no way to make it up, nothing that you can do?
You believe what you want to believe
Not so long ago
It was as perfect as the snow
You can never know what things
May come to spoil your dreams
And to hurt you as they have
Do you hear the rain
So insistent on the windowpane?
A reminder of a night when everything was changed
Why?
Is there nothing sacred left, nothing to hold on to?
Is there no way to make it up, nothing that you can do?
You believe what you want to believe
When the light of morning comes
You see the damage done
And you know how many things
May never be the same
There you will remain
In the ruin after the rain
"the ruin after the rain"
Sunday, may 12, 1996
The Ruin After The Rain
Adrian Belew's 'The Ruin After The Rain' stands as a defining track on the 1996 album Op Zop Too Wah, showcasing his signature fusion of progressive rock and alternative metal. Recorded during a pivotal era for Belew, the song exemplifies his ability to blend complex, technical guitar work with melodic sensibilities that often defy conventional genre boundaries. The recording captures the raw energy and atmospheric depth characteristic of his mid-90s output, where he frequently explored darker, more introspective themes alongside his trademark virtuosity. As a key component of his discography, the track reflects his ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of rock music while maintaining a distinct personal voice that has influenced countless subsequent artists in the progressive and metal scenes.