If you are going to focus on something, why not th… Read Full Bio ↴What's in a name?
If you are going to focus on something, why not their unrelenting, heavy riffs, or their in-your-face live performances, their DIY record sales in the thousands, hell, even the symbolic work clothes the band wear onstage... "Truth is, if you don't like our name, you're probably not going to like our music. What matters is that our fans do." declares front man Nick D, when asked about changing their name.
Drawing on it's members' metal, hardcore and rock influences to form a heavy, melodic riff-laden sound, Cyphilis has been impressing it's own brand of metal on their fans since 2001. Cyphilis' sonic style is unique, but to attempt describing it within the realm of known entities - the band combines elements of Pantera, Clutch and Prong with a touch of Hatebreed and System Of A Down. "Our songs are usually pretty straightforward" says Germ, who writes the music, "We aren't distracted by showing off. We strive to be deliberate, tightly wound, oddly melodic and heavy as hell".
Thousands of fans in and around the band's Wilkes-Barre, PA hometown, and thousands more throughout the world, have connected with the band's loud, aggressive style, thanks to the internet and impressive live performances.
"Our live act is like a kick right in the face. Period" Nick D suggests as an explanation of their fans' loyalty at pit after pit filled show. "Our live show is to the point." adds Deuce. A Cyphilis performance is indeed tight, powerful and purposeful - and their fans do respond. The demonic vocals of Nick D combined with Germ's steely riffs, and the full, driving rhythms laid out by Deuce and Feist are an impressive combination sure to incite any disciple of heavy metal, though it is not recommended for the faint of heart, or the average Hootie and the Blowfish fan.
Word of the band's impressive performance has spread and the band has enjoyed opening slots for such legends as Kiss, Slayer and Judas Priest. The band has also has performed locally and abroad with their friends, and Hollywood Records'Breaking Benjamin, who has recently achieved platinum sales.
Sales of Cyphilis' first EP Backwords (2003) and their full length Buff Shined Scars (2004), both self-produced and released, have reached nearly five thousand, and both releases spent weeks in the top ten local album chart. The band's blistering yet melodic songs have garnered impressive local radio airplay on WBSX 97.9X ("THE X") as well as national regular spins on XM Radio's LIQUID METAL (RIP) and the hard-alternative channel THE SQUIZZ. "I liked it so much, I had to let the whole damn country hear it" relates Ward Cleaver, the esteemed DJ on The Squizz/XMLM.
The band's third release Manifest (July 2005) is a solid 4 song EP which serves up a harder more aggressive representation of what's to come, . Delivering more infectious riffs and powerful vocals on "Grinderparts", "Trouble In The Eyes Of Our Maker", "Hell's Half Acres" and the title track.
"You may not like our name, but you will never forget it... or us" quips Feist.
Cyphilis CDs are available from CD Baby, PayPlay, iTunes, Buy.com, Tower Records, Rhapsody and other major music retailers.
Ambivalence
Cyphilis Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
To The Definition
Of A Violent Disorder
From The Time The Sun
Beats On My Back
Of A Violent Disorder
Damn What A Way
To Sketch A Life
So Lets Live Our Lives
To The Definition
Of A Violent Disorder
[Repeat Verse]
[Chorus:]
The lyrics to Cyphilis's song "Ambivalence" describe the singer's embrace of a violent way of life. The opening line, "Ace live my life to the definition of a violent disorder," sets the tone for the rest of the song. The singer sees violence as an essential part of their existence and identity, something that defines and shapes them. The line "from the time the sun beats on my back" suggests that this way of life has been with them for a long time, perhaps even since childhood.
The chorus, "of a violent disorder, damn what a way to sketch a life" acknowledges the risks and consequences of living a violent life. The phrase "sketch a life" suggests that this way of living is a rough outline, lacking detail and nuance, but bold and impactful nonetheless. Despite the risks, the singer embraces this way of life and challenges their listeners to do the same: "so let's live our lives to the definition of a violent disorder."
Overall, the lyrics to "Ambivalence" paint a picture of a person who is deeply entrenched in a violent way of life, seeing it as a fundamental part of their being. While the song acknowledges the risks of this lifestyle, it ultimately celebrates and glorifies it, urging the listener to adopt the same mentality.
Line by Line Meaning
Ace Live My Life
I am determined to live my life boldly and fearlessly
To The Definition
I am committed to following a clear and precise path in life
Of A Violent Disorder
although it may be chaotic and dangerous at times
From The Time The Sun
since the beginning of my existence
Beats On My Back
as the sun rises and sets each day, reminding me of the passage of time
Damn What A Way
although it may be difficult and challenging
To Sketch A Life
to live a life that is both unique and memorable
So Lets Live Our Lives
let's embrace the present moment and make the most of our time
To The Definition
according to our own personal code and values
Of A Violent Disorder
even if that means living with an element of chaos and unpredictability
[Repeat Verse]
[Chorus:]
Contributed by Cooper O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.