Vandalist
Noga Erez
The Chaotic Rebellion of Noga Erez's 'Vandalist'
Noga Erez's song 'Vandalist' is a raw and unfiltered exploration of chaos, rebellion, and the dark underbelly of modern society. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is constantly on edge, symbolized by the line 'I sleep with one eye open, my shoes always on.' This sense of perpetual vigilance and readiness hints at a life filled with instability and danger. The recurring mention of 'ladies and gentlemen' adds a theatrical element, as if the protagonist is performing for an audience, further emphasizing the performative nature of modern life and the masks people wear.
The song delves into themes of identity and societal expectations. The protagonist dreams of being 'the joker,' a character known for his chaotic and anarchic nature, suggesting a desire to break free from societal norms and expectations. The lines 'I'm only here for benefits / Yeah all my friends are counterfeits' reflect a sense of disillusionment and mistrust, highlighting the superficiality and transactional nature of relationships in contemporary society. The repeated references to 'clickbait' and going 'viral' critique the shallow and often toxic culture of social media, where sensationalism and superficiality reign supreme.
The chorus, 'Coming like a vandalist / They say you better handle this,' encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the song. The term 'vandalist' suggests someone who disrupts and defies societal norms, while the lines 'They don't wanna know where all their nikes are from' and 'They don't wanna know where all the bodies have gone' point to a willful ignorance and complicity in societal issues. The song's chaotic energy and dark themes are a powerful commentary on the state of modern society, urging listeners to confront the uncomfortable truths lurking beneath the surface.