Sabbath Bloody Sabbath

Anthrax's rendition of 'Sabbath Bloody Sabbath,' originally performed by Black Sabbath, delves into themes of disillusionment, existential dread, and the crushing weight of societal lies. The song opens with a stark portrayal of a life seen through 'distorted eyes,' suggesting a skewed perception shaped by external forces. The lyrics speak to the 'execution of your mind,' indicating a forced transformation or awakening to harsh realities. This awakening is not liberating but rather a descent into despair, as the 'truth is out' and 'the lies are old,' yet the protagonist is reluctant to face this grim reality.

The chorus emphasizes a sense of abandonment and betrayal. When seeking answers, the protagonist is met with indifference and deceit, encapsulated in the lines, 'Nobody will ever let you know / When you ask the reasons why / They just tell you that you're on your own / Fill your head all full of lies.' This reflects a broader commentary on societal structures that manipulate and mislead individuals, leaving them isolated and disillusioned.

As the song progresses, the lyrics become more intense, expressing a desire for retribution against those who have 'crippled' the protagonist. The imagery of 'the gates of life have closed on you' and 'the hands of doom' taking one's mind away paints a bleak picture of hopelessness and mental torment. The final verses underscore a nihilistic outlook, where dreams turn to nightmares, and heaven turns to hell. The repeated refrain of 'Sabbath bloody sabbath' serves as a grim reminder of the cyclical nature of suffering and the futility of existence, culminating in the stark declaration, 'Living just for dying / Dying just for you.'

Anthrax's powerful delivery of these lyrics amplifies the song's dark themes, making it a poignant exploration of existential despair and societal disillusionment. The song resonates with listeners who have felt the weight of lies and the crushing reality of a world that often seems indifferent to individual suffering.