"The White Whale" is the second track on Land Shanties, released in partnership with Suzuki Australia in April 2021. It narrates the epic struggle to find that perfect parking space at the grocery store.
Lyrics[]
Lost in the iron sea of endless rolling roofs
We're going for glory, kids — your dad has something to prove
You see, it's not enough to just have hope when lost
You must have the highest of hopes and hold out at all cost
That's why as I tack across this parking garage
I ignore a spot at the entry and aim for the driver's mirage
The unspeakable beauty of free land at the front of the store
And yet this takes vision and steadfast courage to aim for more
{Pre-chorus}
All the early spots are clearly reserved for thе meek
A spot equidistant to store and ticket machinе we seek
{Chorus}
We hunt the white whale, the holy grail!
The park in front of the store
We hunt the white whale, the holy grail!
With gusto and glee, sing it with me, we dare to ask for more
My child jolts me to attention — "Land ho!" does he scream
I pinch myself, and sure enough, the space of my dreams
The sharks begin to circle, I indicate my intention
Just know this parking space is mine, I show no apprehension
Yet as I approach, one thing's painfully clear
Other cars with blinking lights starting to appear
Back off, green van, I see your plan!
Don't think about it, blue sedan!
This spot is mine, we'll hold our ground
There's no better land to be found
{Pre-chorus}
{Chorus}
As we bring her 'round, I find to my dismay
A little hatchback hiding there is taking up half the bay
With hope dashed against the rocks and petrol light now on
Perhaps my nerve is waning; I'll retreat before too long
No! Hold fast, and cast away all dread!
There'll be spaces that we seek in the times ahead
Sure, some may say, any park in a store
But only the bravest captain finds his true reward
{Pre-chorus}
{Chorus 2x}
With gusto and glee, sing it with me, we dare to ask for more
Recordings[]
Streaming/Purchase[]
YouTube Videos[]
Gig Videos[]
- O2 Academy, Oxford (13 Mar 2024)
- Exeter Phoenix, Exeter (5 Apr 2024)
- Bristol Beacon, Bristol (6 Apr 2024)
- Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta (14 May 2024)
- Thalia Hall, Chicago, IL (21 May 2024)
- Festival Dranouter (3 Aug 2024)
- Purbeck Valley Folk Festival (18 Aug 2024)
- House of Blues, San Diego, CA (5 Oct 2024)