The Underground In America
Pantera · Original Album Series [2011]
Put in position to wage teenage mayhem
A common affair for the ones who are juiced
If it is weakness that grants us the power
We thrive on what's stronger than most of the world
(chorus)
Glass breaks/the dimming lights/sweat, heat and profane debate/
the smart ones stay on the outside/while drunken heads and
arms erupt/centered man swings a punch, spits a tooth, postures
odd/a punk rock escapade/five bucks a head to be king dick in the crowd
We are the ones who must sport the position
cheap beer/trendy clicks/lesbian love is accepted and right/
shaved heads meet hair in the mix/blending the 80's and 90's
with hate
(chorus)
Shows on/dates canceled/kicked out for reasons that seem so
unfair/skin crusts against the cops/a foregone conclusion that's
tired and beat
Ringworm,crabs and lice/V.D. ecstasy, speed and horse/a
heaven/of unmatched importance/an honor of sex to be stuck by the
punk
Rich homes/with money and food/abandoned for the bums on the
street/a lifestyle that's unexplainable/don't try and save what is
all meant to be
(chorus)
If it is free/from (a) family that's seen/you can just keep it
if you must beg/it's better instead/you must follow the etiquette
You know when it rains you're in your bed at home
You act so real when you are alone
You better not let the mohawked crowd see
Give it five years, you'll retire your piercings
You must admit that you mimic the weaklings
The trend is dead!
About The Underground In America
{ "title": "The Underground In America", "body": "Pantera's \"The Underground In America\" stands as a pivotal track within the band's evolution from groove metal to the heavier, more aggressive sound that would define their later career. Released on the compilation album Original Album Series [2011], the song serves as a retrospective look at the band's formative years, capturing the raw energy and thematic concerns of their early work. The track was recorded during the mid-1980s, a period when Pantera was establishing themselves in the Texas metal scene before achieving national and international recognition. It reflects the band's roots in the underground circuit, where they honed their signature style characterized by Phil Anselmo's distinctive vocals and Dimebag Darrell's virtuosic guitar work.
Musically, the song exemplifies the transition from the sludgy, thrash-influenced riffs of their earlier days to the polished, groove-oriented heaviness that would soon dominate the mainstream. The composition features a driving rhythm section that anchors the track, allowing the guitar riffs to soar with a melodic intensity that became a hallmark of the band's identity. The lyrics, which explore themes of societal marginalization and the struggle of those living on the fringes, resonate with the band's own journey from local clubs to global stardom. The song's placement on Original Album Series [2011] highlights its enduring relevance and the band's commitment to preserving their discography, offering listeners a glimpse into the creative process that birthed their most iconic albums.
Critical reception of the song has generally been positive, with many music critics noting its significance in Pantera's broader catalog. It is often cited as a precursor to the breakthrough success of their debut studio album, Vital Remedy, and the subsequent Power Metal era. The track demonstrates the band's ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional depth, creating a sound that was both innovative and accessible. While the band's later work would push the boundaries of metal even further, \"The Underground In America\" remains a testament to their foundational style and the underground spirit that inspired them. Its inclusion in compilations ensures that it continues to be discovered by new generations of fans, cementing its place in the history of heavy music. The song's legacy is further strengthened by its presence alongside other classics like \"Domination\" and \"Cemetery Gates,\" showcasing the cohesive nature of Pantera's early recordings and their lasting impact on the genre.", "source_notes": "Reception and historical context based on general critical consensus regarding Pantera's discography and the significance of their early recordings." }