"Pillars" is the opening track on Sunny Day Real Estate’s influential 1998 album How It Feels to Be Something On. The song is widely regarded as a standout in the band’s catalog, exemplifying their signature blend of emotional intensity, intricate musicianship, and introspective lyricism2.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Artist | Sunny Day Real Estate |
| Album | How It Feels to Be Something On |
| Release Date | September 8, 1998 |
| Length | 5:01 |
| Genre | Emo, alternative rock, post-hardcore |
| Label | Sub Pop |
| Writer(s) | Jeremy Enigk, Dan Hoerner, William Goldsmith, Joe Skyward3 |
Musical Style and Structure
- Atmosphere: "Pillars" opens the album with a dramatic, slow-building introduction, featuring layered guitars, dynamic shifts, and Jeremy Enigk’s haunting vocals.
- Instrumentation: The track is noted for its complex guitar work, driving rhythm section, and emotionally charged delivery, hallmarks of the band’s sound during this era45.
- Tempo: The song runs at 127 BPM and lasts just over five minutes2.
Themes and Lyrics
- Introspection and Identity: The lyrics of "Pillars" delve into themes of self-reflection, the search for personal stability, and the struggle to find meaning in life. The metaphor of pillars represents the foundational supports one seeks amid emotional turmoil45.
- Emotional Resonance: The song’s melancholic tone and poetic lyrics have resonated deeply with listeners, often cited for their ability to capture feelings of longing, vulnerability, and the desire for grounding.
- Notable Lines: "But you were always one to stay the same, girl
I know you want to be the rain
And I know that we would fall in there
For a time and then unfall again..."
Significance and Legacy
- Critical Acclaim: "Pillars" is considered one of the band’s most powerful and enduring songs, praised for its introspective lyrics and dynamic musical arrangement45.
- Influence: The song, and the album as a whole, played a significant role in shaping the late-90s emo and post-hardcore scenes, influencing countless bands with its emotional depth and innovative sound45.
- Live Performances: "Pillars" has been a staple of the band’s live sets, often opening their concerts and setting the tone for their emotionally charged performances3.
Personnel
- Jeremy Enigk – vocals, guitar
- Dan Hoerner – guitar, vocals
- William Goldsmith – drums
- Joe Skyward (credited as Joe Bass) – bass, vocals3
In Summary
"Pillars" stands as a defining moment for Sunny Day Real Estate, encapsulating the introspective lyricism, musical complexity, and emotional honesty that have made the band a touchstone in alternative and emo music. Its exploration of personal foundations and the search for meaning continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release453.
