Contains a sample of Paul Robeson speaking to the House of Un-American Activities
The song alludes to “Joe Hill,” as performed by Paul Robeson, written by
lyrics
Last night I met Paul Robeson // He spoke softly by my bed // He whispered of our values // And those who paid for them // I said “but you’re among them now” // In that booming voice he laughed, // “Oh how the living think of death.” // I found myself on Randolph between Halsted and Des Plains // There’s something haunting being there that early in May // Don’t you fucking tell me that this is all in vain // Guns and ropes may end our lives, but there will come a day // “Young one you have much to learn // And much more yet to be” // I retorted back at him about the world as it is // He cautioned me so sternly then // “Do not be harnessed by your fear // A greater world lies ahead // Ignore what is currently” // I stand freezing in the alley behind Hubbard and Clark St. // What happened here still chills all these mid- November days // Don’t you fucking tell me that this is all in vain // Guns and ropes may end our lives, but there will come a day // So to every global power heed the warning we emit // Our voices have grown louder than the ones you strangled then
credits
from The Ableist,
released January 22, 2021
Barry Cabrera – Guitar
Stephan Piven – Guitar
Jairus Paulus – Bass
Johnny Chacon – Drums
Paul Scanty – Lead Vocals
This is one of those albums where I have a different favourite track every week, and it's been like that since the release that is now a year ago. What a massive album, starting out with fist pumping chants and gradually getting more electro but always with that punk grit attitude. Top 3 of 2023. Gijs van Soest