Crashdog were known for their very direct lyrics, which they used to make social commentaries and discuss political issues of their day. Their albums included both strongly Christian songs and overtly political songs, often with a liberal bent. They were one of the first Christian bands to do this; later Christian old-school punk and hardcore bands followed suit.
In 1998 they released 8 Years to Nowhere, a selection of songs from previous recordings (originally called 8 Years from Nowhere to Nowhere). After its release, they decided to go on a one-year hiatus because their drummer, Greg Jacques, was starting a new record label, 2 Jake Records.
During their hiatus, they started another band, Ballydowse, which featured a mix of Celtic music and punk rock along with other styles. As of 2006, they still consider themselves to be on an "indefinite hiatus", but it is unlikely that they will re-form as a band.
Members
Andrew Mandell - lead vocals (originally played guitar)
Greg Jacques - drums
Brian Grover - bass
Jason Burt - guitar
Mike Perlmutter - guitar
Former members
Spike Nard (born Tim Davis) - lead vocals
Mike Simicek - bass
Discography
Hard Knocks for Hard Heads (Grrr records/Rrrough, 1990)
Humane Society (Grrr recordS/Word Entertainment, 1990)
The Pursuit of Happiness (Grrr recordS/Word Entertainment, 1993)
Mud Angels (Grrr recordS/R.E.X. Music, 1994)
Cashists Fascists and Other Fungus (Grrr recordS/R.E.X. Music, 1995)
7 Inch Finch Pinch (2Jake Records/Sin Club Records/Grrr Records, 1996)
Outer Crust (2 Jake Records/Grrr recordS, 1997)
8 Years to Nowhere (Grrr recordS, 1998)
Live at Cornerstone 2002 (authorized indie CDR)
American Dream
Crashdog Lyrics
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A poor man lives to dig his grave.
You march the fields, you conquered the lands,
you still can't fill my empty hands.
American dream, you know what I've seen.
American dream, ain't what it really seems!
homeless children don't know what it means,
Loaded guns, empty plates,
a mighty nation in dire straights.
Wake yourself up, open your eyes,
in the land where dreams are turning into lies.
The idle rich have locked the door,
while God's outside living with the poor!
The lyrics to Crashdog's song "American Dream" explore the disillusionment and frustration of the American working class with the promises of the American dream. The American dream is the idea that anyone, regardless of their background or social class, can achieve prosperity and success in the United States through hard work and determination. However, the lyrics suggest that this dream has not been realized for many Americans.
The first verse addresses the reality of poverty and hardship that many individuals face in the United States despite the country's wealth and resources. The second verse highlights the contrast between the American dream and the reality of homelessness and hunger. The chorus emphasizes the discrepancy between the idealized version of the American dream and the struggles that many Americans face in their daily lives.
The third verse urges listeners to wake up and recognize the truth behind the American dream. The final verse suggests that those with wealth and power have abandoned their responsibility to those less fortunate and have instead closed themselves off from the world. The song encourages listeners to challenge the status quo and fight for change.
Line by Line Meaning
Land of the free, land of the brave.
The United States is thought to be a free and brave country, but in reality, it has many issues.
A poor man lives to dig his grave.
Living in poverty can often lead to a bleak future with little hope of improvement.
You march the fields, you conquered the lands, you still can't fill my empty hands.
The nation has come a long way in terms of progress, but for many, the struggle to survive and put food on the table persists.
American dream, you know what I've seen. American dream, ain't what it really seems!
The so-called 'American Dream' is not as easy to fulfill as it is made out to be, and does not necessarily lead to happiness and success.
American way, American dream, homeless children don't know what it means, Loaded guns, empty plates, a mighty nation in dire straights.
The problems facing the US are highlighted - homelessness, poverty, and violence - despite its powerful reputation.
Wake yourself up, open your eyes, in the land where dreams are turning into lies.
It is important to be aware of the problems and injustices in the US to be able to work towards change and improvement.
The idle rich have locked the door, while God's outside living with the poor!
The rich have control over many aspects of national life, including political power, while the poor and disenfranchised individuals are left to suffer often without a voice.
Contributed by Kylie J. Suggest a correction in the comments below.