Narkotik Kal
Hard Bass School
Rejecting Drugs for the Beat: The Anthem of Hard Bass School
The song "Narkotik Kal" by Hard Bass School is a bold declaration against drug use, promoting the energetic and intense lifestyle of hard bass music instead. The lyrics are straightforward and repetitive, emphasizing the message that drugs are undesirable ('kal' meaning 'crap' in Russian) and that the true high comes from the pulsating beats of hard bass. The song opens with a narrative about a person who used to deal drugs in school but has since found a better path through hard bass music. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which consistently contrasts the negative aspects of drug use with the positive, exhilarating experience of hard bass dancing.
The lyrics also highlight a sense of community and identity among hard bass enthusiasts. The mention of cities like St. Petersburg (SPB) and Moscow (MSK) suggests a widespread movement, uniting people from different places under the banner of hard bass. The song dismisses those who don't respect the hard bass culture, labeling them as outcasts or pretenders. This creates an 'us versus them' mentality, reinforcing the idea that being part of the hard bass community is something to be proud of.
Culturally, the song taps into the Russian hard bass subculture, which is known for its high-energy dance moves and distinctive fashion. The rejection of drugs in favor of music and dance can be seen as a form of rebellion against more destructive behaviors, promoting a healthier, albeit still intense, lifestyle. The repetitive chant of 'Narkotik ne klass, ya yedu na hard bass' (Drugs are not cool, I'm going to hard bass) serves as a mantra for this subculture, encapsulating its core values and beliefs.