Hello Cruel World
Eels · A Man Called E [1992]
so this is you
a broken heart
but with a view
i'm looking out to face another day
the angry mob
the happy mass
this birthday cake may be the last
i'm looking out to find another way
norman rockwell colors fade
all my favorite things have changed
but what the hell
hello cruel world
i thought i heard an opera star
who had no home under the stars
she sang and sang and sang the night away
and mother nature changed her name
she doesn't want to play the game
i don't believe she'll ever be the same
so big brother never came
howdy doody gets the blame
but what the hell
hello cruel world
bad and beautiful and strange
monkeys dancing in a cage
but what the hell
hello cruel world
venus demilo grew an arm
and old macdonald bought the farm
say goodbye
hello cruel world
Hello Cruel World
Hello Cruel World stands as the opening statement on Eels' 1992 debut album, A Man Called E. Marking the first full-length release from the project led by Mark Oliver Everett, the track immediately establishes the band's signature blend of melancholic indie rock and dark humor. The recording captures the raw, lo-fi production style that would come to define the group's early identity, contrasting intimate acoustic textures with moments of chaotic energy. As a foundational piece in the band's discography, it introduces listeners to the emotional vulnerability and introspective songwriting that characterize Everett's work. The song remains a quintessential example of early nineties alternative music, showcasing the unique sonic palette that helped Eels secure a lasting place in the genre.