Music Monday: Mr Tillman by Father John Misty

Music Monday is a meme that was created by Drew from The Tattooed Book Geek. Bjørn and I will pick a song alternatively on each Monday and share our thoughts about them. Bjørn’s pick this week is My Tillman by Father John Misty.

Father John Misty’s, or Josh Tillman’s, songs are often self-aware. Never more than in ‘Mr. Tillman’ (originally titled ‘Mr. Tillman, Please Exit the Lobby’). The video should appeal to fans of grimdark. Father John Misty is basically the modern era Morrissey minus the assholiciousness, complete with loooong song titles – try ‘Well, We’re Only People (And There’s Nothing Much Anyone Can Do About That)’ – and a fantastic voice reminiscent of John Grant. Also, although maybe that’s just me, he is really quite pleasant to look at, especially when he showers, so not in this video.There isn’t much I can write about a song like this. Read the lyrics. Or, better, watch the video, which comes with subtitles for those of us (me) too lazy to listen properly until we realise what we are listening to.

Mr. Tillman, good to see you again
There’s a few outstanding charges just before we check you in
Let’s see here, you left your passport in the mini fridge
And the message with the desk says here the picture isn’t his

And oh, just a reminder ’bout our policy
Don’t leave your mattress in the rain if you sleep on the balcony
Okay, did you and your guests have a pleasant stay?
What a beautiful tattoo that young man had on his face
And oh, will you need a driver out to Philly?
Jason Isbell’s here as well, and he seemed a little worried about you

I’m feeling good, damn, I’m feeling so fine
I’m living on a cloud above an island in my mind
Oh baby, don’t be alarmed, this is just my vibe
No need to walk around, no, it’s not too bad a climb

Mr. Tillman, for the seventh time
We have no knowledge of a film that is being shot outside
Those aren’t extras in a movie, they’re our clientele
No, they aren’t running lines, and they aren’t exactly thrilled
Would you like a Regalo on the patio?
Is there someone we can call? Perhaps you shouldn’t drink alone

I’m feeling good, damn, I’m feeling so fine
I’m living on a cloud above an island in my mind
Oh baby, don’t be alarmed, this is just my vibe
No need to walk around
No, it’s not too bad a climb