The Locust was formed by Justin Pearson, Bobby Bray, Dylan Scharf, Dave Warshaw, and Dave Astor. After a number of personnel changes, they arrived at their current four-piece lineup in 2001, consisting of Pearson, Bray, Gabe Serbian, and Joey Karam. Originally a powerviolence band with a strong tendency towards synth-based passages, they have more recently stripped down much of their past sound, but retained the heavy distortion, synthesizers, screamed vocals, and intense stage presence. On the band's unique sound and live presentations, singer/bassist Justin Pearson has said, "I wanted to change the way people perceive music, or maybe just destroy it in general." Their music is complex, dynamic and fast-paced, often featuring abrupt and inconsistent time-signature changes. These erratic elements are, according to guitarist Bobby Bray, "a reflection of perhaps how our brains have to function in order to be able to do anything in the Western societies we live in."
The Locust have a unique stage presence: costumed in skin-tight, full body nylon suits (which the band refer to as uniforms), they have at times come across to first-time viewers as frightening. The last 5 different suits were designed and made by Ben Warwas. Unlike most bands, which normally have the drums set up behind the other members, the four members of The Locust are usually all positioned in a line at the front of the stage. The group recommends that in order to get the full impact of the music, one should see them live. The Locust boycotts Clear Channel Communications and refuse to play in any Clear Channel-owned venues. This boycott affected a 2005 tour with Fantômas as well as another tour with Yeah Yeah Yeahs. They also have a policy of only playing all-ages shows. The band's lyrics range from stream-of-consciousness poetry to satirical portrayals of mainstream ideas of sexuality to political commentary and critiques of religion.
Can We Get Another Nail in the Coffin of Culture Theft
The Locust Lyrics
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Uh, well, actually...neither.
Cancel Christmas, those carbon units are
All over the "them" just like a cheap suit.
The cheapest fucking suit.
Squish! Squash! Is something lost?
The Locust's song Can We Get Another Nail In The Coffin Of Culture Theft is a commentary on cultural appropriation and the way that different cultures are exploited for commercial gain. The lyrics suggest that this is a problem that is pervasive in society, as people are constantly "all over the 'them' just like a cheap suit." This metaphorical language is designed to draw attention to the way that cultures are commodified and exploited in order to create products that can be sold for profit.
The chorus of the song, "Cancel Christmas," is a call to action, suggesting that this problem needs to be addressed immediately in order to prevent further damage or exploitation. The use of the word "carbon units" is also significant, as it dehumanizes the people who are being exploited, suggesting that they are seen only as objects or resources to be used for someone else's benefit.
In addition to its powerful lyrics, Can We Get Another Nail In The Coffin Of Culture Theft is also notable for its unique musical style. The Locust is known for its experimental and avant-garde approach to punk rock, which incorporates elements of noise, electronic music, and other genres to create a distinctive sound. The band's members are also known for their intense and energetic live performances, which often involve costumes, masks, and other theatrical elements.
Line by Line Meaning
Genius or most genius?
Are you really that smart, or just pretending to be?
Uh, well, actually...neither.
Actually, I'm not particularly smart.
Cancel Christmas, those carbon units are
Forget it, those people are not worth our time or attention.
All over the 'them' just like a cheap suit.
They are trying too hard to imitate others and are not doing it well.
The cheapest fucking suit.
They are so bad at imitating others that they are doing it in a very cheap way.
Squish! Squash! Is something lost?
Is there something missing or not working properly?
Pish! Posh! Is someone lost?
Is someone confused or disoriented?
Lyrics © OBO APRA/AMCOS
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