"Houndmouth's song "McKenzie" tells the story of a relationship that occurs primarily in the darkness, symbolizing secrecy and hidden desires. The narrator only seems to encounter the subject of the song, McKenzie, when it's dark outside and the city streets are filled with unfamiliar faces. The mention of the lights from bodegas adds to the ambiance of this late-night encounter. The lyrics describe a past time when the narrator used to kiss McKenzie on the harbor, a place where ships come and go. There's a sense of magic and allure in this connection, which the narrator attributes to something in the water that leads to romantic encounters. This could be a metaphor for the irresistible attraction between the two. The song then transitions to a scene where the narrator is trying to take McKenzie home. The car key throw suggests a frustration or tension between them. As they drive, the icy window hints at a cold atmosphere, possibly reflecting conflict or distance in the relationship. The narrator ends up sleeping on the sofa while the Hudson river freezes, emphasizing the unresolved tension between them. The lyrics also touch upon the beginning of their relationship, where the narrator met McKenzie when she worked as a waitress. The narrator can't recall what they said during their initial meeting, but they were clearly captivated by McKenzie's ability to stretch her earnings and make a dollar go a long way. This displays a sense of admiration for her resourcefulness. Furthermore, the song mentions other people coming over to smoke and engage in aimless conversations, indicating that their once meaningful connection has become mundane and filled with empty words. The narrator feels that McKenzie doesn't truly listen to them, which creates a sense of frustration and longing for a deeper connection. In summary, "McKenzie" portrays a relationship that thrives in secrecy and darkness, filled with moments of magic and allure. However, as time goes on, the relationship becomes strained and filled with empty conversations, leaving the narrator longing for a more attentive and meaningful connection with McKenzie."
