Beat The Bastards
The Exploited
Raging Against the Machine: The Exploited's Anthem of Defiance
The Exploited's song "Beat The Bastards" is a raw and unfiltered outcry against systemic oppression and societal neglect. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of individuals feeling trapped and powerless within a system that seems designed to keep them down. The repeated phrase "Slaves to the system" underscores the sense of entrapment and lack of agency experienced by many, particularly the youth who are just stepping into the adult world. The song's aggressive tone and relentless repetition of the phrase "Beat the bastards" serve as a rallying cry for resistance and rebellion against these oppressive forces.
The song delves into the struggles faced by young people who are fresh out of school and find themselves without support or opportunities. The lines "Just out of school, don't have a clue / No income support for you" highlight the disillusionment and frustration of a generation that feels abandoned by the very systems that are supposed to support them. This sentiment is further amplified by the mention of "Hungry homeless, who gives a shit?" which points to the broader societal neglect of the vulnerable and marginalized.
The Exploited, known for their punk rock ethos, use this song to channel their anger and discontent into a powerful message of defiance. The relentless repetition of the chorus "Beat the bastards" is not just a call to action but also a form of catharsis, allowing listeners to vent their frustrations and feel a sense of solidarity in their shared struggles. The song's raw energy and unapologetic lyrics make it a potent anthem for those who feel disenfranchised and are ready to fight back against the injustices they face.