B.Y.O.B.

System Of A Down's 'B.Y.O.B.' (Bring Your Own Bombs) is a politically charged anthem that delves into the themes of war, class disparity, and the manipulation of the masses. The song's title itself is a play on the common party invitation acronym 'BYOB' (Bring Your Own Beverage), but with a dark twist that aligns with the band's heavy metal style and penchant for provocative messaging. The juxtaposition of a party with the grim realities of war creates a stark contrast that is central to the song's message.

The opening line, 'Why do they always send the poor?' sets the tone for the song's critique of the socio-economic factors that influence military recruitment and the burden of war. The lyrics suggest that the poor are disproportionately sent to fight in wars while the wealthy and powerful make decisions from a safe distance. The repeated questioning of why presidents don't fight the war themselves underscores the disconnect between those who command and those who are commanded. The imagery of 'dancing in the desert, blowing up the sunshine' evokes the Middle Eastern conflicts, particularly the Iraq War, which was a contemporary issue at the time of the song's release.

The song's bridge, with its sarcastic tone, 'Blast off, it's party time, and we don't live in a fascist nation,' further criticizes the government's actions and the public's complacency. System Of A Down is known for their outspoken political views, and 'B.Y.O.B.' is a prime example of how they use their music as a platform to challenge listeners to think critically about the world around them. The band's unique blend of metal with Armenian musical influences gives their protest a distinctive sound that has resonated with fans worldwide.