A Thousand Years Of Feedback

Hand Habits “Placeholder”

“Placeholder” is basically the opposite perspective of R.E.M.’s “The One I Love.” Whereas Michael Stipe sang from the point of view of a cold, manipulative person who toyed with people’s emotions so he could have a “simple prop” to occupy his time, Meg Duffy is the person realizing how little they mean to someone who has used them. The song isn’t angry or even all that sad. It’s more about processing emotions than the feelings themselves. There’s a wistful quality to the music, particularly in the distorted lead guitar lines, but Duffy’s lyrics and vocal performance are cold and logical, like they’re meant to counter this other person with their own icy approach. It sounds like someone who is putting up their guard and hardening their heart. It’s a bit tragic in that way.

Buy it from Bandcamp.