One of the most fascinating elements to this song is that its title and
theme reflect the band which recorded it. Essentially, the song is an address
from the singer to his lover asking her to use her secret smile in order to
make him happy. I view this as symbolic for the talent of Semisonic. They are
best known for their song "Closing Time". Now don't get me wrong,
"Closing Time" is a fabulous song. It so perfectly captures both the
sound of late 90's alternative and the feeling of desperation one feels when
desiring to connect with another under the constraint of time. But I feel that
in this song, more of the talent of Semisonic shines forth.
In those rays are both simple but precise lyrics which pop into the sound
landscape and then slide back as to allow the band to play. All of the musical
elements come together on this track. Smooth guitar and keyboard is matched
with drumming which drives at a comfortable speed of 35 mph. The aforementioned
lyrics not only call for happiness, but the personal and special type of
happiness that only a lover can deliver. A strong connection between the singer
and his love comes across both in his words and his delivery. For example, when
he states "So use it and prove it / Remove this whirling sadness / I'm losing
I'm bluesing / But you can't save me from madness” there is both pain and hope
in his voice. He is in a bad place now but he knows that there is something
that can help him. As he puts it “When you are flying around and around the
world / And I'm lying alone / I know there's something sacred and free reserved
/ And received by me only”. The type of love which fosters such a connection is
a special thing and Semisonic capture it in this song.
Included below is a link for the music video for this song. The connection
between the singer and his love becomes even stronger as they run for their
lives.
"Secret Smile"- Semisonic
Please enjoy,
Nick Howard
