Lander

Album: Deep Down Happy (2020)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • Sports Team are an English rock band who formed at the University of Cambridge after bonding over groups like Pavement and Parquet Courts. The six-piece comprises lead vocalist Alex Rice, lead guitarist Henry Young, rhythm guitarist Rob Knaggs, bassist Oli Dewdney, drummer Al Greenwood, and keyboardist Ben Mack. "Lander" is the opening track of their debut album, Deep Down Happy.
  • Yeah, I've been waiting in a dark suit for awhile
    Down there in Aldershot, Camberley or Staines


    Alex Rice told The Sun the song is "from the perspective of that commuter belt hypocrite. Claps for the NHS but votes for its sale."
  • The recording of Deep Down Happy with Courtney Barnett producer Burke Reid prioritized improvisation. This song originated as a stream-of-consciousness vocal take by Rob Knaggs, one of the few Sports Team songs where he sings lead vocals.

    "We had it for a very long time; our label really liked it, but I don't think any of us necessarily thought we'd do anything with it," Knaggs admitted to Apple Music. "To be honest, there was a lot of debate between us about whether it should even be on the record."
  • Deep Down Happy reached #2 on the UK albums chart. Lady Gaga's Chromatica prevented it from reaching the top spot.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Tim McIlrath of Rise Against

Tim McIlrath of Rise AgainstSongwriter Interviews

Rise Against frontman Tim McIlrath explains the meanings behind some of their biggest songs and names the sci-fi books that have influenced him.

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.

Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, Heaven And Hell

Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, Heaven And HellSongwriter Interviews

Guitarist Tony Iommi on the "Iron Man" riff, the definitive Black Sabbath song, and how Ozzy and Dio compared as songwriters.

Jon Anderson

Jon AndersonSongwriter Interviews

Jon Anderson breaks down the Yes classic "Seen All Good People" and talks about his 1000 Hands album, which features Chick Corea, Rick Derringer, Ian Anderson, and many other luminaries.

Billy Joe Shaver

Billy Joe ShaverSongwriter Interviews

The outlaw country icon talks about the spiritual element of his songwriting and his Bob Dylan mention.

Philip Cody

Philip CodySongwriter Interviews

A talented lyricist, Philip helped revive Neil Sedaka's career with the words to "Laughter In The Rain" and "Bad Blood."