A song about the pursuit of thrills, about our unrelenting and frankly dangerous addiction to chase pleasure, Harlow’s Monkeys ‘Pleasure’ takes a rather up tempo and high energy rock anthem that almost compels you to move, to dance, and to jump from wall to wall. Yet, hidden beneath the rather cheery mood and atmosphere the song seems to exude is a much darker and depressing message embedded within. With its seductive languishing vibe, that strange confluence between indie folk and up-tempo dance music, Harlow’s Monkeys’ describe that craving for temporary satisfaction over fulfilment.
There’s an old saying that conflates joy and pleasure. While the latter can be strong, immensely satisfying, and altogether obsessive, it’s temporary and transient. Joy, on the other hand, is a long-lasting and fulfilling feeling. It doesn’t rely on externalities, coming instead from within. Harlow’s Monkeys perfectly captures that rush and craving for pleasure and its ultimate dissatisfaction expertly on this track.