Empty Tankard

Tankard's song 'Empty Tankard' is a raw and unapologetic celebration of the thrash metal lifestyle, characterized by heavy drinking, wild partying, and intense music. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with alcohol-fueled revelry and the camaraderie of friends who share a passion for thrash metal. The repeated references to drinking beer and whiskey, as well as the mention of specific spirits like vodka and cognac, underscore the central theme of indulgence and excess.

The song also highlights the physical and emotional intensity of thrash metal culture. Phrases like 'thrashin' and stagedivin'' and 'bangin' and bleedin'' evoke the high-energy, often chaotic atmosphere of thrash metal concerts, where fans engage in activities like slam dancing and headbanging. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace this intensity, urging them to 'stand up maniacs, you have to fight' and 'bang your head against the fuckin' wall.' This call to action reflects the rebellious and defiant spirit of thrash metal, where fans find a sense of identity and belonging in the music and the community.

Moreover, 'Empty Tankard' serves as a tribute to the band's hometown of Frankfurt, with a nod to the local thrash metal scene. The line 'Frankfurt's thrashers will rule tonight' suggests a sense of pride and solidarity among the city's metalheads. The song's title, 'Empty Tankard,' symbolizes the relentless pursuit of pleasure and the inevitable consequences of such a lifestyle, as hinted at by the line 'Liver is broken down so bloody hard.' Despite the physical toll, the song's overall tone is one of unbridled enthusiasm and a refusal to conform to societal norms.