Meaning of "Black Umbrella" by Clutch

The lyrics of "Black Umbrella" paint a vivid picture of a gritty, crime-ridden world filled with deception and corruption. The characters mentioned, such as Money Mike, Pistol Pete, and the woman with the black umbrella, symbolize different aspects of criminality and illicit activities. The fast-paced nature of the song reflects the chaos and lawlessness of the underworld where the characters operate. The mention of a woman with “tricks” who cooks the books and flaunts her looks suggests a femme fatale character using her allure to manipulate others. The repeated image of a black umbrella hints at a looming sense of danger and foreboding, symbolizing the darkness and mystery that pervade this shadowy world. Overall, the lyrics of "Black Umbrella" serve as a cautionary tale about the consequences of getting entangled in a criminal underworld where trust is scarce and danger lurks at every corner.