War Criminals
Sandi Leeper Lyrics

Sandi Leeper's song "War Criminals" opens with a direct challenge to power figures, suggesting a strong awareness of their actions and deceptions. The repeated rhetorical questions in the first verse highlight an awareness that transcends simple observation; the singer implies a deeper insight into manipulative behaviors, suggesting that those in positions of power think they can act without scrutiny. This idea reflects a sense of disillusionment, as the singer confronts the lies and misdirection from figures who are supposed to protect or lead. Here, "you are lying" serves as a powerful accusation, establishing a stark divide between the truth as perceived by the singer and the deception practiced by those in authority. The personal experience of feeling watched, yet unseen, resonates with feelings of helplessness and frustration in the face of systemic dishonesty and manipulation.

The chorus brings an emotive rendering of the term "war criminal," connecting it to both tangible actions and psychological control. The phrase "subliminal dominion" implies that the war criminals are not just committing tangible acts of violence or injustice but are also influencing thought and behavior in a pervasive and subtle manner. This suggests that their power reaches beyond conventional means, affecting the psyche of individuals and communities. By stating "Criminal, we are onto you," there is a sense of awakening, an acknowledgment that societal complacency can no longer mask the truth of these actors’ actions. The repetition of “so many” emphasizes the widespread nature of these perpetrators, indicating that it’s not just isolated individuals; a larger systemic network of complicity exists, perpetuating cycles of violence and oppression.

In the second verse, the focus shifts to the unspoken truths and the potential for change that remains unrealized. The line "Everything that you're not telling / Could've saved some lives" resonates with a sense of condemnation — that there is blame to be placed on those who hold back critical information. The anger expressed here signifies a collective frustration directed at entities that prioritize secrecy over transparency, thereby amplifying a cycle of grief and loss. The phrase "if we try to name it we're insane" captures the complexity of confronting power; acknowledging abuse or injustice can often lead to being labeled as dissenters or troublemakers, thus creating a harsh dichotomy between truth and accepted narratives. The imagery of "zombie eyes" evokes a sense of lifelessness and passivity in the face of overwhelming oppression, suggesting that many are desensitized to the conflicts and atrocities that continue to unfold.

As the narrative progresses, Leeper prophesizes the downfall of the corrupt entities: "You're going to fall, cronies and all.” This call to inevitable accountability reflects hope for change, embodying the spirit of resistance and revolution. The mention of the chaos that could ensue, illustrated by the imagery of everything "burning up in the flames of your own war," signifies that the destructive consequences of their actions will ultimately consume them. The litany of what is destructively impacted — "On food, on fuel, on women / On freedom and expression" — poignantly highlights the multifaceted repercussions of war and oppression on various levels of society. The conclusion of the chorus, a desperate plea of “no war no war no war / Anymore anymore anymore,” encapsulates a yearning for peace and liberation from the constraints of ongoing conflict and injustice. Ultimately, Leeper intertwines a personal and political narrative to forge a powerful critique of war crimes and their far-reaching impact, advocating for awareness, resistance, and transformation.