Heartache, some know it all too well. Its a feeling that, when held inside for too long, will burst out into a wail of pain, confusion, anger, tension and pure honest to god love. Enter Yeah Yeah Yeahs' power balled, "Maps." The song was written as an ode to long distance relationships (Frontwoman Karren O's boyfriend was currently touring with a band when the song was written) but the song comes across as more of a pre breakup song. Where one partner in the relationship tries in vain to keep the relationship going. Believe me, this song is nothing you haven't heard before. Its sad bitter and honestly quite painful. But what sets it apart is the painful heartbroken wail of Karren O. As the song progresses her voice becomes more strained to the point where she begins yelling that unforgettable but remarkably simple hook "Wait, they don't love you like I love you." The guitar work is also stunning its remarkable how much sound Nick Zinner is able to create with a few power chords and slides and how well it just fits with the pain of the lyrics, as if the guitar is trying to tell a similar story that the lyrics are. "Maps" was a surprise hit. Much like a song way back from the 90s with the small title of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" this song catapulted the band out of the underground into a mainstream audience. The band is no longer considered hip but that doesn't seem to matter. This song has a feeling of importance, of power and that makes it one of the most raw and unforgettable tracks of this generation.
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