Astro Zombies (cover Misfits)

My Chemical Romance's cover of 'Astro Zombies' by the Misfits is a dark and intense exploration of destruction and existential questions. The song's lyrics revolve around a narrator who wields immense power, symbolized by the 'burning hand,' to unleash 'astro zombies' with the prime directive to exterminate the human race. This apocalyptic imagery serves as a metaphor for the destructive capabilities inherent in humanity, whether through war, environmental degradation, or other means of self-destruction.

The repeated phrase 'Prime directive, exterminate' underscores the relentless and merciless nature of this destruction. The graphic descriptions of faces dropping 'in a pile of flesh' and hearts pounding 'till it pumps in death' evoke a visceral sense of horror and finality. These lines highlight the physical and emotional toll of such widespread annihilation, painting a bleak picture of a world on the brink of collapse.

Amidst this chaos, the narrator grapples with a profound existential dilemma: 'Who'd I do this for, hey, me or you?' This question reflects a deeper introspection about the motivations behind such destructive actions. Is the destruction driven by personal vendettas, societal pressures, or a misguided sense of duty? The repetition of 'All I wanted to say, and all I gotta do' suggests a struggle to find meaning and justification in the face of overwhelming devastation.

My Chemical Romance's rendition of 'Astro Zombies' not only pays homage to the original punk ethos of the Misfits but also infuses it with their own brand of emotional intensity and introspection. The song serves as a powerful commentary on the darker aspects of human nature and the existential questions that arise in the face of destruction.