Protest the Hero Blindfolds Aside: A Deeper Dive into the Lyrics

Imagine standing on a cliff's edge, wind roaring in your ears, with nothing but blindfolds keeping you from seeing the fall. That’s the sense of urgency, raw emotion, and chaotic precision Protest the Hero evokes with their song "Blindfolds Aside." It’s a piece that digs deep into political commentary, philosophical musings, and a visceral storytelling method that leaves the listener both breathless and contemplative.

“Blindfolds Aside” is one of those rare songs that shatters the barrier between music and message. The lyrics are filled with raw intensity and painted with an urgency that you can’t help but feel in your bones. The track opens up with chaotic instrumentals, a sonic tornado that sets the stage for a lyrical onslaught. And it wastes no time.

"Blindfolds aside, I'll lay down my pride," sings Rody Walker in his distinct vocal style, immediately delivering the punch of the song. But what does it really mean? The phrase "blindfolds aside" seems to symbolize a lifting of ignorance or denial, a moment of clarity in the face of the chaotic world described throughout the song.

In a world where people are often blinded by pride, prejudice, and political dogma, "Blindfolds Aside" is a bold call to set those blindfolds aside and confront reality head-on, no matter how unpleasant or painful that reality may be. The song navigates through themes of war, societal corruption, and personal responsibility, diving headfirst into the uncomfortable truths many prefer to avoid.

The second verse is just as thought-provoking as the first, raising questions about identity, morality, and the cost of apathy. Lyrics like “Does a child cry when their mother dies, does it matter if it's for the cause?” force the listener to consider not just their personal beliefs but also the global implications of political actions. This isn’t just about protest. It’s about confronting the things we’d rather ignore, both individually and collectively.

What makes "Blindfolds Aside" so powerful is its ability to intertwine intensely personal experiences with broader political commentary. The lines "The irony, oh the irony" resonate deeply, perhaps referring to the ironic nature of fighting for peace, the absurdity of endless cycles of conflict, or the paradox of personal freedom within a controlled society.

It's easy to overlook how masterfully crafted the song is, not just lyrically but musically. Protest the Hero is known for their technical prowess, and "Blindfolds Aside" showcases their ability to fuse rapid time changes, complex guitar work, and soaring melodies without losing the emotional core of the track. Each instrumental section feels like a conversation, adding layers to the lyrics rather than merely accompanying them.

When you listen to the song closely, it's clear that it also speaks to personal liberation. The idea of laying down one's pride isn't just a political statement—it's also deeply personal. To set aside blindfolds means being vulnerable, honest with oneself, and confronting the internal conflicts we often bury. The chorus rings out as both a challenge and a promise: "I'll lay down my pride."

But why does this song still resonate years after its release? In a time when people are bombarded with media, opinion, and noise, it's easy to keep those blindfolds firmly in place. It’s easier to turn away from the injustices we see around us, to justify apathy or inaction. "Blindfolds Aside" is a direct challenge to that inclination. It demands attention, reflection, and action.

At its core, the song is about choice. The choice to see or not to see. The choice to act or remain passive. The choice to set aside the blindfold and look at the world as it truly is, even when it’s uncomfortable.

In an era where it's easy to remain blind to the struggles of others, "Blindfolds Aside" is a reminder that real change requires us to first confront ourselves. Protest the Hero doesn't just present a problem; they lay down the gauntlet for us to tackle it.

The complexity of their lyrics is complemented by the band's musicianship, which seamlessly combines progressive metal with intricate time signatures and virtuosic guitar work. Each note feels deliberate, each rhythm complex yet intuitive. But it’s the message that truly sticks. This isn’t a song you can casually listen to—it’s a conversation starter, a wake-up call.

As the final chorus erupts, you’re left with a lingering sense of responsibility. "Blindfolds Aside" doesn’t resolve neatly; it doesn’t provide easy answers. And that’s the point. It's up to you to decide what you’ll do with the truths the song uncovers.

So, the next time you hear that first riff rip through the air, ask yourself: What blindfolds am I still wearing? And more importantly, are you ready to take them off?

In conclusion, "Blindfolds Aside" is more than just a song. It’s a call to action. Whether it's confronting personal demons or societal issues, Protest the Hero uses their art to push the listener out of complacency and into a realm where denial is no longer an option.

It's a powerful reminder that the blindfolds we wear—whether by choice or circumstance—will never fully protect us from the truth. And perhaps, they were never meant to.

The question remains: will you lay down your pride?