Track By Tracks: Virgin Birth - Total Annihilation (2025)

1. I CAN’T READ:

Lyrically, this is about failing to understand obvious dialogue in everyday conversation, particularly email/text communication. Particularly in corporate America, everyday conversations are so fucking boring and mundane. We tried to keep the vibe of the music upbeat and slightly paranoid to create a slight sense of disorientation or misunderstanding.

2. NOT WHO YOU’RE LOOKING FOR:

I sort of understand people being really concerned with keeping their information private on the internet. But to be honest, the way I see it, who gives a fuck if Facebook knows that I have sleep apnea? Why does it matter that Jeff Bezos knows that I enjoy shitty erotic thrillers from the early 90’s? The words and music for this song explain how there’s nothing overly important or valuable pertaining to my everyday life. Take it all, I don’t give a shit.

3. DON’T TELL ME:

The bongo sample might be my favorite part of this entire track. It’s kind of hilarious and doesn’t really fit, but it kinda does at the same time. The words are about how annoying people can be while not realizing it (myself included). Like, you don’t HAVE to tell me everything. It’s okay to spare a few details.

4. WHAT A CHARACTER:

Every music & arts community seems to have at least one person who seems to be really decent and good. But behind the curtain, he or she is up to something. They have a secret. This song digs into that idea. The synth loop aims to increase the uncertainty of who you should and shouldn’t trust, no matter how nice or seemingly genuine that person might be.

5. SIT, STAND:

I grew up in a military family that was also rooted in the fundamentalist Southern Baptist church. This song is kind of a reflection on how confusing it can be as a kid when you’re second-guessing the purpose of everything that your parents teach you.

6. I TOLD YOU (I’M LEAVING):

Musically, I tried my best to rip off Godflesh and The Jesus Lizard with this song. The lyrics are about how it’s always annoying when someone proudly announces that they are taking their business elsewhere. Like, who cares that you’re switching social media platforms Who gives a shit that you’re not shopping here anymore? You don’t have to formally announce your intentions, because no one fucking cares.

7. BREAK DOWN THE AIR:

Over the last couple of years, I became a bit obsessed with the nuclear holocaust movie Threads (1984). This song is a reaction to how that movie makes me feel. The realistic thought of nuclear winter is by far the most terrifying shit I’ve ever sat down and really tried to comprehend.

8. FROM BEHIND:

This song is about how corporate America uses its infinite supply of money to buy people off and make their problems go away. It’s a simple concept, but relatable now more than ever.

9. DOING WHAT YOU’RE TOLD:

Growing up, it was my understanding that a “good soldier” would always shut up and do what they’re told. No matter what. Don’t ask questions and just fucking do it. Don’t question the morality of your assignment. That’s what this song is about. 

10. WHERE AM I?

The anxious feeling of not being enough, or failing to lead a life worth living – that’s what this is about. Never being sure about your place in society, or if you have one it all to begin with. The music is loud and distorted, and the beat is fucking harsh. I think it provides a good framework for the simple, repetitive lyrics.