Background of the Band
Cro-Mags, a band that has left an indelible mark on the hardcore punk scene, emerged in the early 1980s. Formed in New York City, the band’s name, Cro-Mags, is a nod to the prehistoric creature, the cro-magnon man. Their music, characterized by its raw energy and aggressive style, has earned them a dedicated fan base over the years.
Lyrics of “See the Signs”
“See the Signs” is one of Cro-Mags’ most iconic songs, released on their 1986 album “The Age of Quarrel.” The lyrics of the song are a powerful commentary on the struggles and hardships faced by the band and their fans during that period. Here’s a breakdown of the song’s lyrics:
| Verse 1 | Lyrics |
|---|---|
| Verse 1 | See the signs, see the signs, see the signs |
| Chorus | They’re all around us, they’re all around us |
| Verse 2 | Feel the pain, feel the pain, feel the pain |
| Chorus | It’s all around us, it’s all around us |
| Bridge | Can’t you see, can’t you see, can’t you see |
| Chorus | It’s all around us, it’s all around us |
| Verse 3 | Break the chains, break the chains, break the chains |
| Chorus | They’re all around us, they’re all around us |
Themes and Messages
The song “See the Signs” delves into themes of oppression, struggle, and the fight for freedom. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency, urging listeners to recognize the signs of injustice and take action. Here are some key themes and messages found in the song:
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Oppression: The lyrics highlight the oppressive forces that people face in their daily lives, whether it be political, social, or economic.
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Struggle: The song acknowledges the hardships and challenges that individuals must overcome, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
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Fight for Freedom: The chorus repeatedly emphasizes the need to break free from the chains of oppression, advocating for a life of freedom and liberation.
Musical Style and Influences
Cro-Mags’ musical style is a blend of hardcore punk, thrash metal, and crust punk. Their aggressive sound, characterized by fast-paced rhythms, intense guitar riffs, and powerful vocals, has influenced countless bands in the hardcore punk scene. Some key influences on Cro-Mags’ music include:
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Discharge: The British hardcore punk band Discharge is often credited with pioneering the crust punk genre, which has had a significant impact on Cro-Mags’ sound.
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Black Flag: The influential American hardcore punk band Black Flag has had a lasting impact on Cro-Mags, particularly in terms of their songwriting and musical style.
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Minor Threat: The Washington, D.C.-based hardcore punk band Minor Threat has influenced Cro-Mags’ political and social commentary in their music.
Legacy and Impact
Cro-Mags’ music and lyrics have left a lasting impact on the hardcore punk scene. Their raw energy, powerful lyrics, and dedication to the fight against oppression have inspired countless musicians and fans. Here are some of the ways in which Cro-Mags have influenced the music world:
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Band Formation: Cro-Mags have inspired the formation of numerous bands in the hardcore punk scene, many of which have carried on the band’s legacy.
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Political Activism: The
