'Julie In The Weeds'
'Julie In The Weeds'
Morrissey's Foray Into Easy Listening Music
This obscure song was co-written with Boz Boorer and recorded in February 2014 at
La Fabrique Studios in Saint-Rémy de Provence, France along with the tracks that appear on World Peace Is None of your Business studio album. ‘Julie In The Weeds’ was only released on the deluxe edition of the album (released coevally in July 2014).
Musically, the track is a departure for Morrissey. The song is bookended with an awkward sounding synthesizer modulation (in the outro it evinces something of a whining quality) - awkward inasmuch as Morrissey effects a markedly relaxed vocal style in the song more akin to Burt Bacharach than his normal singing voice.
‘Julie In The Weeds’ is an exceptionally mellow, pleasant, and paced song, with touches of accordion courtesy of Gustavo Manzur. Morrissey’s lyrics - which appear to address a traumatized woman whom he instructs to “…lie down in the weeds” (presumably for refuge) - are delivered in a relaxed and reassuring manner, offering emotional solace to the subject from all who would harm her:
There are some people who live in order to
Tell others what to do…
As long as there remains steel in my veins
They will not trouble you…
Generally, the track garners praise from fans, who note its vintage-sounding musical and vocal style. Indeed, Morrissey and Boorer appear to channel 60s pop music to a notable degree. It would certainly be accurate to state that the song demonstrates Morrissey’s willingness to take risks and work outside of his familiar range. Unfortunately, ‘Julie In The Weeds’ has never been performed live by Morrissey.
Listen to ‘Julie In The Weeds’ here and decide for yourself: