Locust

Machine Head's song 'Locust' delves into themes of deception, destruction, and the inevitable reckoning that follows. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a swarm of locusts descending upon the world, symbolizing a force of corruption and devastation. The 'sweet caress' that 'grazes my skin' suggests an initial allure or temptation, but it quickly becomes clear that this is a 'loveless' embrace, with 'hooks' that 'sink in.' This imagery sets the stage for the central metaphor of the song: the locusts as harbingers of doom, cloaked in the guise of something benign or even angelic.

The chorus, with its repeated imagery of the 'swarm of locusts' and 'skies above converge to choke us,' emphasizes the overwhelming and inescapable nature of this destructive force. The locusts 'feast of souls' and 'consume the harvest,' affecting both 'young and old,' indicating that no one is spared from this plague. This can be interpreted as a commentary on societal or moral decay, where the innocent and the guilty alike suffer the consequences of widespread corruption.

As the song progresses, there is a glimmer of hope with the lines 'Faith appears and holds a candle' and 'Hark the angels sing.' This suggests that despite the pervasive darkness, there is still a possibility for redemption and truth to prevail. The final verses speak of 'tearing the veil' and 'halos of truth,' indicating a revelation or awakening that exposes the lies and brings about a reckoning. The 'shattered crown' and 'charade comes down' signify the fall of false leaders or corrupt systems, ultimately leading to a triumph of purity and truth over deception and decay.