They Lie - The Exploited
"They Lie" is a track by the Scottish punk rock band The Exploited. Released in 1983 on their album "Let's Start a War...Said Maggie One Day", the song is a scathing critique of government corruption and deceit. The composition of "They Lie" is fast-paced and aggressive, characteristic of The Exploited's hardcore punk sound. The song features driving guitar riffs, pounding drums, and raw, intense vocals from frontman Wattie Buchan. The lyrics are filled with anger and disillusionment, with lines like "They lie, they cheat, they rip us off, they take us for a ride" expressing the band's frustration with those in positions of power. One notable fact about "They Lie" is that it was written during a time of political unrest in the UK, with the Conservative government of Margaret Thatcher facing widespread criticism for their policies. The song became an anthem for disillusioned youth who felt betrayed by their leaders. Overall, "They Lie" is a powerful and politically charged track that remains relevant to this day, speaking to the timeless themes of corruption and injustice.
The Exploited
The Exploited is a Scottish punk rock band that was formed in Edinburgh in 1979. The band was initially started by vocalist Wattie Buchan and guitarist Big John Duncan, with the goal of creating aggressive and politically charged music that would challenge the status quo. The Exploited quickly gained a following in the punk rock scene, with their raw and energetic live performances. They released their debut album, "Punk's Not Dead," in 1981, which solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands in the punk rock genre. The album featured tracks like "Dead Cities" and "Army Life," which became anthems for the disaffected youth of the time. Throughout the 1980s, The Exploited continued to release albums that showcased their signature blend of fast-paced punk rock and socially conscious lyrics. Their 1982 album, "Troops of Tomorrow," is considered a classic of the genre and contains some of their most enduring songs, such as "UK 82" and "Exploited Barmy Army." The Exploited's impact on music cannot be overstated. They were instrumental in shaping the sound and aesthetic of the punk rock genre, with their aggressive music and confrontational lyrics inspiring countless bands that followed in their wake. Their influence can be heard in the work of bands like Rancid, NOFX, and The Casualties, who have all cited The Exploited as a major influence on their music. Despite their controversial and confrontational image, The Exploited have remained a staple of the punk rock scene for over four decades. Their uncompromising attitude and dedication to their craft have earned them a loyal fan base and a reputation as one of the most important bands in the history of punk rock.