As a longtime fan of Sepultura, I have always been intrigued by the depth and complexity of their lyrics. One song that particularly stands out to me is “Lookaway” from their album “Roots”. It is a powerful and intense track that explores themes of deception, self-disgust, and the allure of forbidden desires.

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The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Lookaway” are raw and visceral, reflecting the inner turmoil and conflicting emotions of the protagonist. The song begins with the lines:

Each time I pull it apart
I get disgusted, can’t do it today
What makes it so good
That a man would kill for it
Lie just to lick a bit

These lines depict a sense of frustration and self-disgust. The protagonist is torn between indulging in something that holds a strong allure and the internal conflict that arises from engaging in it. The repetition of the phrase “I get disgusted, can’t do it today” emphasizes the struggle between desire and restraint.

The chorus encapsulates this internal battle:

Take it, enlarge it, became it, before
Like it, I like it, and I’ll be
Fake it, then like it, just take it tonight
Take it

The protagonist grapples with the idea of giving in to temptation, realizing that the temporary pleasure it provides may lead to regrets and self-deception.

The outro of the song, featuring Jonathan Davis’ haunting whispers, repeats the lines:

I look at you, then you look at me, then you look away
I look at you, then you look at me, then you look away

These lines suggest a sense of longing and unrequited desire, as the protagonist yearns for a deeper connection that seems to always be just out of reach.

Additional Information

“Lookaway” features guest appearances by Jonathan Davis of Korn and Mike Patton of Faith No More. Jonathan Davis contributed his death growls and the whispers in the outro, while Mike Patton added various intense vocalizations throughout the song.

Interestingly, while Max Cavalera typically writes the lyrics for Sepultura’s songs, Jonathan Davis took on the role of lyricist for “Lookaway”. This collaboration adds a unique dynamic to the song, combining the intense energy of Sepultura with the distinctive style of Davis.

The song was produced by Sepultura and Ross Robinson, and it was released on February 20, 1996. The album “Roots” explores Brazilian influences and experimental elements, making it a significant milestone in Sepultura’s discography.

Overall, “Lookaway” is a powerful song that delves into the depths of human desire, self-deception, and the constant struggle between what we crave and what we know is right. Its intense lyrics and collaborations with other renowned artists make it a standout track in Sepultura’s repertoire.