10 Best Neutral Milk Hotel Songs of All Time

Neutral Milk Hotel is an indie rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music world. Led by singer-songwriter Jeff Mangum, the band has gained a devoted following thanks to their unique sound, poetic lyrics, and emotionally charged performances. With only two full-length albums to their name, the band has managed to create a legacy that has continued to grow long after their last release. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 best Neutral Milk Hotel songs of all time. From the hauntingly beautiful “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” to the raw and emotional “Holland, 1945,” these songs have resonated with fans and critics alike, earning their place in the indie rock canon. We’ll examine the lyrics, the instrumentation, and the emotional impact of each song, and explore why they continue to be beloved by fans old and new. So whether you’re a die-hard Neutral Milk Hotel fan or a newcomer to their music, join us as we delve into the top 10 best songs from one of the most influential indie rock bands of all time.

1. In the Aeroplane Over the Sea

“In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” is a hauntingly beautiful song that has become an indie rock classic. The song is performed by the American band Neutral Milk Hotel and features a simple yet emotive acoustic guitar melody that creates a dreamlike atmosphere. The lead singer’s distinctive vocals add a layer of vulnerability and rawness to the song, conveying the emotions and imagery in the lyrics with breathtaking clarity.

The lyrics of the song are cryptic yet poetic, with references to Anne Frank and a wide range of vivid imagery that suggests a longing for escape and transcendence. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “can’t believe how strange it is to be anything at all” serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the search for meaning and purpose.

The song’s pacing is deliberate and measured, giving the listener time to fully absorb the emotions and message conveyed by the music and lyrics. The instrumentation is minimal, allowing the vocals and lyrics to take center stage and evoke a sense of introspection and reflection. The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of wonder and awe, reminding them of the beauty and mystery of the world around us. Overall, “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire listeners with its beauty and depth.

2. Holland, 1945

“Holland, 1945” is an emotionally charged and cathartic song that showcases the raw power of Neutral Milk Hotel’s music. The song features a driving rhythm, distorted guitar riffs, and energetic vocals that create a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics of the song are poignant and deeply personal, referencing historical events and personal experiences to convey a sense of longing, loss, and hope.

The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “The only girl I’ve ever loved was born with roses in her eyes” serving as a powerful refrain that conveys the intensity of the narrator’s feelings. The song’s pacing is fast and frenetic, with the band members’ instrumentation driving the energy forward at a breakneck pace.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of catharsis and release, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have been fully expressed and released into the world. Overall, “Holland, 1945” is a powerful and unforgettable song that showcases the full range of Neutral Milk Hotel’s talent and artistry.

3. Naomi

“Naomi” is a hauntingly beautiful song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s unique ability to blend poetic lyrics with simple yet emotive instrumentation. The song features a minimalist guitar melody that creates a dreamlike atmosphere, and the lead singer’s distinctive vocals add a layer of intimacy and vulnerability to the song.

The lyrics of the song are cryptic yet poetic, with references to the biblical story of Ruth and themes of love, loss, and redemption. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “Oh Naomi” serving as a poignant reminder of the narrator’s longing and the depth of their emotions.

The song’s pacing is deliberate and measured, with the instrumentation and vocals building in intensity as the song progresses. The instrumentation is simple yet effective, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage and convey the depth of emotion and meaning in the song. The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of melancholy and yearning, as if the narrator’s longing has yet to be fulfilled. Overall, “Naomi” is a timeless masterpiece that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create music that is both simple and profound.

4. Two-Headed Boy Pt. 2

“Two-Headed Boy Pt. 2” is a poignant and emotionally charged song that serves as the culmination of Neutral Milk Hotel’s magnum opus, the album “In the Aeroplane Over the Sea”. The song features a simple yet evocative acoustic guitar melody that creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The lead singer’s distinctive vocals add a layer of rawness and authenticity to the song, conveying the depth of emotion and meaning in the lyrics with heartbreaking clarity.

The lyrics of the song are poetic and enigmatic, with references to themes of duality, transformation, and transcendence. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “And in my dreams, you’re alive and you’re crying” serving as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the power of memory and imagination to keep loved ones alive.

The song’s pacing is deliberate and measured, with the instrumentation and vocals building in intensity as the song progresses. The instrumentation is minimal yet effective, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage and convey the depth of emotion and meaning in the song. The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of closure and catharsis, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have been fully expressed and released into the world. Overall, “Two-Headed Boy Pt. 2” is a masterpiece of songwriting and performance that continues to captivate and inspire listeners with its beauty and depth.

5. King of Carrot Flowers Pts. 2 & 3

“King of Carrot Flowers Pts. 2 & 3” is a beautifully crafted song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to blend raw emotion with poetic lyrics and creative instrumentation. The song features a driving acoustic guitar melody, a soaring trumpet solo, and evocative vocals that create a sense of urgency and intensity.

The lyrics of the song are surreal and enigmatic, with references to themes of love, loss, and transformation. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “I love you, Jesus Christ” serving as a powerful reminder of the narrator’s intense feelings and sense of devotion.

The song’s pacing is fast and frenetic, with the band members’ instrumentation driving the energy forward at a breakneck pace. The trumpet solo adds a layer of grandeur and emotional depth to the song, and the lead singer’s vocals convey a sense of rawness and authenticity that is both captivating and moving.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of wonder and transcendence, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have taken on a life of their own. Overall, “King of Carrot Flowers Pts. 2 & 3” is a stunning work of art that continues to captivate and inspire listeners with its beauty and depth.

6. I Will Bury You In Time

“I Will Bury You In Time” is a haunting and atmospheric song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create a sense of unease and introspection through their music. The song features a sparse and atmospheric instrumentation, with a repetitive acoustic guitar melody and a subtle use of effects to create a sense of otherworldliness.

The lyrics of the song are poetic and evocative, with references to themes of time, memory, and mortality. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “I will bury you in time” serving as a powerful reminder of the inevitability of death and the transience of human life.

The song’s pacing is deliberate and slow, with the instrumentation and vocals creating a sense of introspection and contemplation. The lead singer’s vocals convey a sense of sadness and resignation, adding a layer of emotional depth to the song.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of unease and melancholy, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have lingered long after the song has ended. Overall, “I Will Bury You In Time” is a beautiful and haunting work of art that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to convey complex emotions and themes through their music.

7. Ghost

“Ghost” is a melancholic and introspective song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create hauntingly beautiful melodies and lyrics. The song features a sparse and delicate instrumentation, with a gentle acoustic guitar melody and subdued vocals that create a sense of introspection and reflection.

The lyrics of the song are poetic and enigmatic, with references to themes of loss, isolation, and mortality. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “I love you, I miss you” serving as a powerful reminder of the narrator’s intense feelings and sense of longing.

The song’s pacing is slow and deliberate, with the instrumentation and vocals creating a sense of emotional weight and depth. The lead singer’s vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and sadness, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the song.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of melancholy and reflection, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have left a lasting impression. Overall, “Ghost” is a stunning work of art that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create music that is both hauntingly beautiful and emotionally resonant.

8. Song Against Sex

“Song Against Sex” is a high-energy and chaotic song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to blend punk rock and folk music into a unique and dynamic sound. The song features an energetic instrumentation, with distorted guitars, pounding drums, and a driving bassline that create a sense of urgency and chaos.

The lyrics of the song are surreal and enigmatic, with references to themes of sexuality, violence, and existential dread. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “I love you, Jesus Christ” serving as a potent reminder of the narrator’s inner turmoil and existential angst.

The song’s pacing is fast and frenetic, with the instrumentation and vocals creating a sense of urgency and intensity. The lead singer’s vocals are raw and passionate, adding a layer of emotional intensity to the song.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of catharsis and release, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have been given an outlet through the frenzied energy of the music. Overall, “Song Against Sex” is a powerful and dynamic work of art that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create music that is both raw and emotionally charged.

9. Oh Comely

“Oh Comely” is a sprawling and emotionally charged song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create epic and transcendent music. The song features a slow and deliberate instrumentation, with a mournful acoustic guitar melody and subdued vocals that create a sense of melancholy and reflection.

The lyrics of the song are poetic and deeply personal, with references to themes of love, loss, and spirituality. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “oh comely” serving as a powerful reminder of the narrator’s sense of awe and wonder.

The song’s pacing is slow and deliberate, with the instrumentation and vocals creating a sense of emotional weight and depth. The lead singer’s vocals are raw and emotional, adding a layer of intimacy and vulnerability to the song.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of catharsis and transcendence, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have been elevated to a higher plane through the power of the music. Overall, “Oh Comely” is a stunning work of art that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create music that is both deeply personal and spiritually transcendent.

10. Everything Is

“Everything Is” is a haunting and dreamlike song that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create music that is both ethereal and otherworldly. The song features a sparse and minimalist instrumentation, with a soft and gentle guitar melody and hushed vocals that create a sense of intimacy and introspection.

The lyrics of the song are poetic and enigmatic, with references to themes of love, loss, and existential questioning. The chorus of the song is particularly memorable, with the repetition of the phrase “everything is” serving as a potent reminder of the narrator’s sense of awe and wonder.

The song’s pacing is slow and deliberate, with the instrumentation and vocals creating a sense of dreamlike surrealism. The lead singer’s vocals are hushed and delicate, adding a layer of intimacy and vulnerability to the song.

The song’s final notes leave the listener with a sense of introspection and contemplation, as if the emotions conveyed in the lyrics have been given space to breathe and be processed through the power of the music. Overall, “Everything Is” is a stunning and meditative work of art that showcases Neutral Milk Hotel’s ability to create music that is both haunting and emotionally powerful.