Drag This River
Walkabouts · New West Motel [1996]
Burn it down to the heart
So the ending can start
Here, behind the riverhaus door
With an unloaded gun
And an unsettled score
Well I'll never drag this river
I'll never drag this river X2
I'll never drag this river down
You, nothin' comes to you slow
Nothin' comes to you hard
Though you beg like you're hard
And me, don't shake the barrel ar me
And don't treat idle threats
Like you treat all your friends
Well I'll never drag this river
I'll never drag this river X2
I'll never drag this river down
And if you walk out that door
Don't come back
Because there'll be no door
And if you walk out that door
Silence greets you
Silence, will be yours
I hear ya callin' from a long distant shore
But you won't come back, [well / 'cause] you can't come back
The water's risin' and the levee is not sure
And you won't be found, no you can't be found
Drag this river down
Drag This River
Drag This River stands as a compelling song in the Walkabouts' expansive discography, appearing on their 1996 album New West Motel. The track exemplifies the band's signature atmospheric sound, blending post-punk intensity with a distinctively cinematic scope. Known for their moody, reverb-laden productions, the Walkabouts crafted a unique sonic identity during this era that resonated with fans of alternative rock and gothic influences. This recording captures the group's ability to weave narrative depth into their instrumentation, creating a soundscape that feels both intimate and vast. As part of a prolific period for the band, the song contributes to a body of work that continues to define their legacy in the genre.

