We honor Machine Head today with Banger status for their song “Bastards” off of their solid 2018 album Catharsis. Since 1991 they’ve been creating crushing heavy metal. Today we pick a song of the times with a slightly different tone but very banger worthier.
If the banger is one thing it’s progressive- socially and politically. This song, so sweet beautiful and epic crosses all the standard banger boxes- hard, fast, furious, and rhythmic. But this one has got a socio-political message that we can get behind.
It opens with a message from the singer to his sons about the loss of progressivism and the beginning of regression. But through a hopeful chorus of “Stand your ground/ don’t let the bastards grind you down / Be bold, be strange” the song lifts up the downtrodden and outcasts offering hope for the future and a sense of inclusion.
The creative musicianship makes the song accessible to newbies and satisfying to old fans. It shows a concern for others belying the kill’em all Heavy Metal ethos. Great song.
The Indy Review 