Avenged Sevenfold’s “Bat Country” is a standout track from their third studio album, “City of Evil,” released in 2005. This song marked a pivotal moment for the band, showcasing their evolution from a metalcore outfit to a more melodic and complex hard rock sound. “Bat Country” was inspired by Hunter S. Thompson’s famous novel, “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” particularly drawing from the surreal and chaotic imagery that Thompson’s work is known for.
The lyrics of “Bat Country” are rich with references to the wild, drug-fueled escapades depicted in Thompson’s book. The chorus line, “He who makes a beast out of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man,” is a direct nod to the book’s exploration of escapism and the human condition. Avenged Sevenfold’s frontman, M. Shadows, has explained that the song delves into the themes of indulgence and the consequences of living life on the edge, much like Thompson’s characters.
Musically, “Bat Country” is a high-energy, adrenaline-pumping track that blends the band’s heavy metal roots with intricate guitar work and catchy melodies. Synyster Gates and Zacky Vengeance’s dual guitar harmonies are a highlight, delivering some of the most memorable riffs and solos in Avenged Sevenfold’s discography. The song’s relentless pace and dynamic structure helped it gain significant radio play and introduced the band to a broader audience.
The music video for “Bat Country” further solidified its impact, featuring a wild ride through a Las Vegas-like landscape, filled with bizarre and fantastical elements reminiscent of Thompson’s gonzo journalism style. The video’s visuals complement the song’s themes perfectly, adding a layer of depth to the already vivid narrative.
“Bat Country” received critical acclaim and commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and number six on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. It also earned the band their first gold certification from the RIAA, cementing Avenged Sevenfold’s status as a major force in the rock and metal scene.
For fans of Avenged Sevenfold, “Bat Country” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem that captures the essence of the band’s adventurous spirit and their ability to push the boundaries of their genre. The track remains a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live performances, continuing to ignite crowds with its electrifying energy and captivating story.
Lyrics
He who makes a beast out of himself
Gets rid of the pain of being a man
Caught here in a fiery blaze, won’t lose my will to stay
I tried to drive all through the night
The heat stroke ridden weather, the barren empty sights
No oasis here to see, the sand is singing deathless words to me
Can’t you help me as I’m startin’ to burn (all alone)
Too many doses, and I’m starting to get an attraction
My confidence is leaving me on my own (all alone)
No one can save me, and you know I don’t want the attention
As I adjust to my new sights
The rarely tired lights will take me to new heights
My hand is on the trigger, I’m ready to ignite
Tomorrow might not make i, t but everything’s all right
Mental fiction, follow me, show me what it’s like to be set free
Can’t you help me as I’m startin’ to burn (all alone)
Too many doses, and I’m starting to get an attraction
My confidence is leaving me on my own (all alone)
No one can save me, and you know I don’t want the attention
So sorry you’re not here
I’ve been chained too long, my vision’s so unclear
Now take a trip with me
But don’t be surprised when things aren’t what they seem
Caught here in a fiery blaze, won’t lose my will to stay
These eyes won’t see the same after I flip today
Sometimes I don’t know why we’d rather live than die
We look up towards the sky for answers to our lives
We may get some solutions, but most just pass us by
Don’t want your absolution ’cause I can’t make it right
I’ll make a beast out of myself, yeah
Gets rid of all the pain of being a man
Can’t you help me as I’m startin’ to burn (all alone)
Too many doses, and I’m starting to get an attraction
My confidence is leaving me on my own (all alone)
No one can save me, and you know I don’t want the attention
So sorry you’re not here
I’ve been sane too long, my vision’s so unclear
Now take a trip with me
But don’t be surprised when things aren’t what they seem
I’ve known it from the start
All these good ideas will tear your brain apart
Scared, but you can follow me
I’m too weird to live, but much too rare to die
Tags: Avenged Sevenfold