A bit of homage to the multi-part, lengthy tunes that came out of the 70's Progressive Rock scene, with some deliberately-over-the-top melodrama. This track was inspired by a CNN article titled "Robots Assist In Search For Ivory-Billed Woodpecker."
I. Stolen Flight
You hide away but I know how to find a way to show
You never really left this land so many years ago
Look to the bayou and through the woodland chase
To darkest Arkansas – she’s seen your feathery face
Heard your hammer, seen you soar
Gliding with delight
Ornithology meets high-tech
My cameras steal your flight
Robotic eyes and flashing frames
Wind and train at bay
The threat of radiation gonna scare the vandals away
You know I’m watching you
I’m ready to blow your ruse
But you drop in your decoys with a red-paint crest
We’re keeping you amused
You’re staring at me through a looking glass
About to watch you fly
Your giant ivory bill come to peck me
And kiss my proof goodbye
I’m left here with shards of shutters and shame – just shame
Got no way left to capture you in frame – in frame
And with your mercy stroke
There’s no way left to give portent
To the other privileged primates
Your ascendant intent
II. Massacre
Beak alabaster eyes of rage
Won’t give up seclusion for the gilded cage
If birding thrill seekers don’t turn back
Cold revenge taken – carnal counter attack
III. Epilogue: Aftermath
Scanning through the wasteland all the desolate remains
It’s clear that something happened here that might explain
The fear that penetrates each frightened soul – the few that survive
Meanwhile a lonely bird takes flight and soars on high
from
Cheesesteak Walleye,
released July 1, 2007
I. Stolen Flight
Music by Doug Darrell and Dave Bilsak
Lyrics by Steve Wonchoba and Doug Darrell
Dave Bilsak: bass guitar
Doug Darrell: Electric guitar, backing vocals
Steve Wonchoba: Keyboards, drum programming, lead vocals
II. Massacre
Music by Doug Darrell and Steve Wonchoba
Lyrics by Doug Darrell
Doug Darrell: Electric guitar, bass guitar, sound effects
Steve Wonchoba: Drum programming, lead vocals
III. Epilogue: Aftermath
Music by Steve Wonchoba and Doug Darrell
Lyrics by Steve Wonchoba
Doug Darrell: Electric guitar, acoustic guitar
Steve Wonchoba: Keyboards, drum programming, bass guitar, lead vocals