Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: emo
Song Meaning of “Tonsil Hockey” by State Champs
Tonsil Hockey, by punk rock band State Champs, takes on a chaotic and rebellious tone, to portray the alluring side of teenage love. The song entails about two passionate lovers in pursuit of a private moment, and the entanglement of their desire for an intimate escape.
The singer in the song confesses his lustful longing for more than just a fling; he clearly wants a romantic affair. The chorus outlines this intense longing with the charged phrase, ‘Call it a craving, or a need to take our love full screen.’ He is suggesting that he wants to take their relationship out of its secret and private hiding spot, and expose it for all to admire.
The instrumental of the track also carries a rebellious energy, with a spastic rhythm of electric guitar strums, a rock-inspired riff, and driving drums. All of these elements work to emphasize the restlessness that their romantic feelings ignite.
Nevertheless, the reality of their relationship and the implications it may have are heavily present in the song. Even with all the adventurous and exciting feelings that make up their relationship, the lyrical content of the chorus makes it clear that things may not end up well. With the phrase ‘Lost it in language but it’s harder to keep our true feelings clean’, the singer’s ability to use language to discuss their feelings seems to be dwindling, which allows unpredictable emotions to take over, making it unlikely to the coexistence of a successful relationship.
Ultimately, Tonsil Hockey is a captivating representation of both the intense chaos and the encompassing bliss of young love. It highlights that relationship’s are alluring, yet still possess the potential to unravel in an instant.