If you’re a fan of progressive metal band Tool, then you’ve likely heard their song “Ticks & Leeches” from their 2001 album Lateralus. This intense track showcases the band’s signature sound and explores themes of betrayal and retribution.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the lyrics of “Ticks & Leeches,” examining their meaning and significance within the context of the song as a whole. We’ll also explore some interesting facts about the song and its creation, as well as its impact on Tool fans.
H2: The Story Behind “Ticks & Leeches”
“Ticks & Leeches” was written by Tool’s frontman Maynard James Keenan, guitarist Adam Jones, bassist Justin Chancellor, and drummer Danny Carey. Like many of the band’s songs, it has a complex structure that combines heavy riffs with intricate time signatures.
The song is known for its aggressive tone and biting lyrics, which reflect Keenan’s feelings of betrayal by someone he trusted. According to an interview with Kerrang!, Keenan revealed that “Ticks & Leeches” was inspired by an incident in which he discovered that someone he trusted had stolen money from him.
Keenan explained that the song is “about being taken advantage of by someone who thinks they’re entitled to what you have.” He added that the lyrics are “meant to be venomous” and “toxic,” reflecting his anger and frustration at the situation.
H2: Examining the Lyrics
Now let’s take a closer look at some of the lyrics from “Ticks & Leeches” and analyze their meaning:
“Suck me dry/The only way to get rid of them is to kill them off one by one”
These opening lines set the tone for the song, with Keenan expressing his frustration at the leeches who are draining him of his resources. He acknowledges that the only way to rid himself of them is to take action and eliminate them one by one.
“I hope you choke on this/The world around you is burning/I hope you choke on this/The world around you is burning”
These lines serve as a chorus of sorts, with Keenan repeating the phrase “I hope you choke on this” twice. The repetition emphasizes his anger and resentment towards the person who betrayed him and suggests that he wants them to suffer for their actions.
“You’re such an inspiration for ways/That I will never ever choose to be”
Here, Keenan acknowledges that the person who betrayed him may have some admirable qualities, but he doesn’t want to emulate their behavior. This line reveals Keenan’s integrity and suggests that he values doing what is right over taking shortcuts or betraying others.
“All you know about me is what I’ve sold you/Dumb fuck/I sold out long before you ever heard my name”
In these lines, Keenan reflects on the nature of fame and how it can distort people’s perceptions of who he is. He suggests that people only know what he has sold them, rather than the truth about who he really is. He also acknowledges that he may have compromised his principles in order to achieve success, but implies that this was a necessary sacrifice.
H2: The Impact of “Ticks & Leeches”
“Ticks & Leeches” has become a fan favorite among Tool’s extensive discography. Its intense energy and thought-provoking lyrics have resonated with many fans over the years.
The song has also been covered by several other artists, including metalcore band All That Remains and progressive rock band Coheed and Cambria. These covers demonstrate the enduring appeal of “Ticks & Leeches” and its influence on other musicians.
H2: Conclusion
In conclusion, “Ticks & Leeches” is a powerful and impactful song that explores themes of betrayal and retribution. Its lyrics are venomous and reflective of Maynard James Keenan’s personal experiences, making them all the more potent.
The song’s impact on Tool fans has been significant, with many citing it as a favorite track from the band. Its influence has also been felt in the music industry, with several covers by other artists.
If you haven’t yet listened to “Ticks & Leeches,” we highly recommend giving it a spin. It’s a song that will leave an impression and make you think about the nature of trust and betrayal.
References:
– https://www.songfacts.com/facts/tool/ticks-leeches
– https://www.kerrang.com/features/maynard-james-keenan-the-10-songs-that-changed-my-life/
– https://www.loudersound.com/features/how-tool-created-lateralus-the-prog-metal-masterpiece-that-defies-all-expectations
