Combat

Deftones' song 'Combat' delves into the internal and external conflicts that arise when one is forced to choose sides. The repeated questioning of 'Which side are you on?' and 'Whose side are you on?' underscores the pressure and urgency of making a decision. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for the struggles we face in life, where we are often caught between conflicting choices, ideologies, or loyalties. The song's aggressive tone and repetitive nature reflect the frustration and confusion that accompany these moments of indecision.

The lyrics 'A waste of time if you don't believe' and 'Can't decide till you've hit the ground' suggest that indecision and lack of conviction are paralyzing. The imagery of hitting the ground implies a need for a decisive action or a moment of clarity that forces one to make a choice. The line 'Cause you're holding me down' indicates that this indecision not only affects the individual but also has a detrimental impact on those around them. The song captures the essence of being stuck in a loop of uncertainty, where the inability to choose a side leads to repeated cycles of frustration and stagnation.

The confrontational nature of the song is further emphasized by lines like 'And don't think that I don't know, 'Cause I do' and 'Nice try, 'Cause that's what you really like.' These lines suggest a sense of betrayal or disappointment, possibly directed at someone who is perceived as being insincere or manipulative. The demand to 'Decide, whose side you're on!' serves as a call to action, urging the listener to take a stand and make a definitive choice. In essence, 'Combat' is a powerful exploration of the turmoil and urgency that come with making critical decisions, and the impact those decisions have on oneself and others.