CMND/CTRL

Deftones' song 'CMND/CTRL' delves into themes of control, power dynamics, and the psychological struggle between self-awareness and external perception. The lyrics reflect a sense of frustration and confusion, as the narrator grapples with the blame placed upon them and the chaotic nature of their environment. The repeated questioning of fault—'How's this shit all my fault?'—highlights a feeling of being unfairly targeted or misunderstood, a common theme in Deftones' music which often explores inner turmoil and conflict.

The song's title, 'CMND/CTRL,' is a play on the computer keyboard shortcuts for 'command' and 'control,' suggesting a desire to take charge or manipulate situations. This is further emphasized by lines like 'I send commands / Just because I can,' indicating a struggle for dominance and the assertion of power. The narrator's ability to 'switch command' at will underscores a sense of agency, yet it also hints at the arbitrary and sometimes destructive nature of wielding such power.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring motif of mental instability and the perception of madness—'Straight out of your mind / You see I'm well aware / You're out of your mind.' This duality of being both aware and perceived as insane creates a tension that drives the narrative. The imagery of pointing at the camera and laughing suggests a performative aspect, where appearances and perceptions are manipulated, further complicating the themes of control and reality. Deftones' signature blend of heavy, atmospheric music and introspective lyrics creates a haunting backdrop for this exploration of psychological and emotional power struggles.