Anthem
Five Iron Frenzy · Proof that The Youth Are Revolting [1999]
To sing their anthem proudly
Voices raised to sing their praise
Of their hollow country
All this talk of freedom
And some talk of liberty
From your plastic podium
You try and convince me
I can't fall anymore
For some silver-tongued song
Your freedom isn't free
So let me say what freedom means to
I can't see red, white, and blue waving in the air
I don't hear the bombs bursting and I don't even care
I'm sorry for my lack of faith
I'm not the greatest patriot
If this is all their is to freedom I don't want it
I can't fall anymore
For some silver-tongued song
Your freedom isn't free
So let me say what freedom means to
Pushing us a drug that you call freedom and democracy
Promise us that selfishness is the means for happiness
I burned that bridge so long ago that I can hardly see
Anything but solace in what freedom means to me
I can't fall anymore
For some silver-tongued song
Freedom isn't free
So let me say what freedom means to
It cannot mean to serve ourselves
That doesn't mean a thing
It doesn't mean to give the license
To seek ourselves in anything
That would be slavery to ourselves it isn't free
Jesus Christ, the only thing that freedom means to me.
Anthem
Five Iron Frenzy's "Anthem" stands as a defining track from their 1999 album, Proof that The Youth Are Revolting. The song captures the band's signature blend of punk energy and Christian rock sensibilities, showcasing the tight musicianship that helped establish their reputation within the genre. Released during a prolific period for the group, the recording reflects the dynamic interplay between their energetic live performances and polished studio production. As part of an album that solidified their standing in the Christian punk scene, the track exemplifies the band's ability to craft anthemic melodies that resonate with listeners. The song remains a staple in their discography, representing the high-energy sound that characterized their work in the late nineties and early two-thousands.