Tourniquet

Baroness' song 'Tourniquet' delves into the emotional and existential struggles of living with an 'artificial heart.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with feelings of emptiness and disconnection. The artificial heart symbolizes a lack of genuine emotion or a sense of being incomplete. The repeated plea for a 'tourniquet' suggests a desperate need to stop the emotional bleeding and find some form of relief or salvation. This metaphorical language highlights the internal battle between wanting to feel and the inability to do so.

The song's references to 'poison and ashes' filling the bloodstream and the 'sweet amphetamine' indicate a reliance on substances or external factors to cope with the emotional void. These lines suggest a cycle of self-destruction and temporary relief, only to be followed by more pain and emptiness. The imagery of being 'wasted' and taking 'shots in the dark' further emphasizes the sense of aimlessness and desperation. The ocean floor and storm imagery evoke a sense of being overwhelmed and lost, with the heart still breaking and blood still waiting, symbolizing ongoing suffering and the search for solace.

Baroness, known for their blend of heavy metal and progressive rock, often explores themes of struggle, resilience, and the human condition. 'Tourniquet' is no exception, as it captures the essence of feeling broken and the relentless pursuit of healing. The artificial heart, which 'beats but can't feel a thing,' serves as a powerful metaphor for emotional numbness and the quest for authenticity. The song's haunting melody and poignant lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their own emotions or struggled to find meaning in their pain.