Chains & Leather

Running Wild's song "Chains & Leather" is a powerful anthem celebrating the heavy metal subculture and its enduring symbols. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a metal concert, where the energy is palpable, and the crowd is united by their love for the genre. The imagery of 'chains and leather' serves as a metaphor for the strength and unity within the metal community, symbolizing both the physical attire often associated with metalheads and the unbreakable bond they share.

The song opens with a scene of anticipation and excitement as the day turns to night, and the concert begins. The 'headbanger's war' and 'screaming metal' set the stage for a night of intense music and camaraderie. The references to 'sweat and beer' and 'devilish cheer' highlight the raw, unfiltered nature of metal concerts, where fans come together to revel in the music and the atmosphere. The repeated mention of 'chains and leather' emphasizes their significance as enduring symbols of the metal lifestyle.

As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the spiritual and almost ritualistic aspects of the metal culture. The lines 'We are right praying metal tonight' and 'The message from hell and its spell' suggest a sense of devotion and reverence for the music. The mention of 'Even Satan wears leather' adds a rebellious and defiant edge, reinforcing the idea that metal is a way of life that transcends conventional norms. The song's chorus, with its repeated chant of 'Chains & leather forever,' serves as a rallying cry for metal fans, affirming their commitment to the culture and its values.

The final verse captures the chaotic and exhilarating experience of a metal concert, where 'all hell breaks loose' and fans must choose to either fully immerse themselves in the experience or step away. The imagery of 'heaps are banging' and 'chains are glancing' conveys the physicality and intensity of the event. The song concludes with a reaffirmation of the metal community's rules and values, encapsulated in the enduring symbols of 'chains and leather.'