Oblivion

Album: released as a single (2025)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • The story of "Oblivion" is told from the perspective of a vampire who reflects on the state of the modern world before "going down with the ship." Alkaline Trio singer Matt Skiba told KROQ the idea was sparked by watching the 2024 Nosferatu remake, which prompted him to revisit the 1922 original. One of the title cards in that silent film - "Does this word sound like the death bird calling out your name at midnight?" - stuck with him so much that he worked it directly into the lyrics.
  • "Oblivion" holds a bit of Alkaline Trio band-history trivia: it's the first official studio recording to feature drummer Atom Willard, who joined after 2024's Blood, Hair, and Eyeballs.
  • "Oblivion" is one of three Alkaline Trio songs recorded with Travis Barker as producer, a collaboration with extra resonance thanks to Matt Skiba's time with Blink-182. The plan was to record just one new song, or maybe a cover, during Atom's first studio session with the band. But once Barker's energy kicked in, they wound up writing and recording three entirely new originals instead.
  • Travis Barker didn't limit himself to production. At one point he hopped behind the kit to demonstrate what he was hearing. Willard took the seat back, tried it Barker's way, and nailed it. The inspiring hands-on moment left the band calling Barker their "fourth member."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Pam Tillis

Pam TillisSongwriter Interviews

The country sweetheart opines about the demands of touring and talks about writing songs with her famous father.

Rock Stars of Horror

Rock Stars of HorrorMusic Quiz

Rock Stars - especially those in the metal realm - are often enlisted for horror movies. See if you know can match the rocker to the role.

Frankie Valli

Frankie ValliSong Writing

An interview with Frankie Valli, who talks about why his songs - both solo and with The Four Seasons - have endured, and reflects on his time as Rusty Millio on The Sopranos.

Part of Their World: The Stories and Songs of 13 Disney Princesses

Part of Their World: The Stories and Songs of 13 Disney PrincessesSong Writing

From "Some Day My Prince Will Come" to "Let It Go" - how Disney princess songs (and the women who sing them) have evolved.

Kip Winger

Kip WingerSongwriter Interviews

The Winger frontman reveals the Led Zeppelin song he cribbed for "Seventeen," and explains how his passion for orchestra music informs his songwriting.

Stephen Christian of Anberlin

Stephen Christian of AnberlinSongwriter Interviews

The lead singer/lyricist for Anberlin breaks down "Impossible" and covers some tracks from their 2012 album Vital.