In the realm of modern rock, few bands have managed to carve out as distinct a niche as Disturbed. Known for their powerful riffs, intense vocals, and a raw energy that captivates audiences worldwide, Disturbed has become a household name in the metal and hard rock community. One of their most notable and surprising hits, however, is not an original composition but a cover—Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence.” This rendition has not only introduced the band to a broader audience but has also showcased their versatility and depth as musicians.
The Origins of the Song
Originally written by Paul Simon and first released in 1964, “The Sound of Silence” is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores themes of isolation, alienation, and the breakdown of communication in modern society. The song became an anthem of the 1960s counterculture and solidified Simon & Garfunkel’s place in music history.
Disturbed’s Interpretation
When Disturbed released their version of “The Sound of Silence” in December 2015, it was met with widespread acclaim and intrigue. The song was included in their album “Immortalized,” which marked the band’s return after a four-year hiatus. What sets Disturbed’s cover apart is their ability to retain the song’s original melancholy while infusing it with a new level of intensity and emotion.
Vocal Performance
David Draiman’s vocal performance in “The Sound of Silence” is nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his aggressive vocal style, Draiman took a different approach for this song. His deep, resonant voice adds a new layer of depth and gravitas, starting with a soft, almost whisper-like delivery and gradually building to a powerful crescendo. This dynamic range captivates listeners, drawing them into the emotional core of the song.
Instrumentation and Arrangement
Disturbed’s version of “The Sound of Silence” features a rich and textured arrangement. The band opted for a more orchestral approach, incorporating piano, strings, and haunting percussion. This orchestration, combined with the band’s signature guitar work, creates a soundscape that is both grand and intimate, amplifying the song’s emotional impact.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, Disturbed’s “The Sound of Silence” quickly gained traction. The music video, directed by Matt Mahurin, further enhanced the song’s reach, garnering millions of views on YouTube. Fans and critics alike praised the band’s ability to reinterpret a classic song while making it their own. The cover’s success was further cemented when the band performed it live on “Conan” in March 2016, a performance that has since become legendary for its emotional intensity.
The song’s reception was not just limited to the rock and metal community. It crossed over into mainstream charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart and making significant inroads on the Billboard Hot 100. This crossover appeal showcased Disturbed’s ability to transcend genre boundaries and connect with a broader audience.
Legacy and Continued Popularity
Disturbed’s rendition of “The Sound of Silence” has become a staple in their live performances and a favorite among fans. The song has also been featured in various media, further solidifying its place in modern music culture. For many fans, both old and new, this cover represents a pivotal moment in the band’s career, highlighting their musical evolution and emotional depth.
Conclusion
Disturbed’s “The Sound of Silence” is more than just a cover; it is a reinterpretation that honors the original while bringing something profoundly new to the table. It stands as a testament to the band’s versatility and their ability to convey deep emotion through music. For fans of Disturbed, it is a reminder of the band’s enduring talent and their knack for surprising and delighting their audience. As the song continues to resonate with listeners worldwide, it is clear that Disturbed’s “The Sound of Silence” has earned its place as a modern classic in its own right.
The Sound Of Silence Lyrics:
Hello, darkness, my old friend
I’ve come to talk with you again
Because a vision softly creeping
Left its seeds while I was sleeping
And the vision that was planted in my brain
Still remains
Within the sound of silence
In restless dreams I walked alone
Narrow streets of cobblestone
‘Neath the halo of a street lamp
I turned my collar to the cold and damp
When my eyes were stabbed by the flash of a neon light
That split the night
And touched the sound of silence
And in the naked light I saw
Ten thousand people, maybe more
People talking without speaking
People hearing without listening
People writing songs that voices never share
And no one dare
Disturb the sound of silence
“Fools,” said I, “”You do not know
Silence, like a cancer, grows
Hear my words that I might teach you
Take my arms that I might reach you””
But my words like silent raindrops fell
And echoed in the wells of silence
And the people bowed and prayed
To the neon god they made
And the sign flashed out its warning
In the words that it was forming
And the sign said
“The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls
And tenement halls
And whispered in the sound
Of silence”
Tags: Disturbed