The Meaning Behind The Song: Funeralopolis by Electric Wizard

May 2024 · 3 minute read

I have always been captivated by the dark and heavy tones of Electric Wizard’s music. Their song “Funeralopolis” from the album Dopethrone is a prime example of their signature sound and lyrical themes. This song delves into the slow destruction of our planet, exploring the bleakness of existence and the impending doom that humanity faces.

Table of Contents

The Lyrics

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a desolate world, comparing it to a funeral planet and a dead black asteroid. The imagery of a mausoleum and tomb emphasizes the lifelessness and emptiness that permeates this world. The human zombies with blank faces represent the sense of purposelessness and numbness that plagues society. There is no reason to live, as they feel dead even before entering the world.

The song reflects on the feeling of being trapped in a death shroud existence, living as a slave for a pittance. It highlights the injustice of a system that condemns individuals to a life of suffering and ultimately death. The line “millions are screaming, the dead are still living” is a powerful statement about the apathy and ignorance that allows the decline of our planet to persist unnoticed. Funeralopolis signifies a world that has died, yet no one seems to realize.

As the song progresses, it touches on themes of exploitation and corporate greed. The mention of “flesh press factories” and “corporate maggots” reveals the parasitic nature of those in power, feeding off the carrion of society. The black clouds blocking out the sun symbolize the impending darkness and destruction that looms over this funeral planet.

Personal Reflection

Listening to “Funeralopolis” has always been an intense experience for me. The crushing riffs and heavy atmosphere create a sonic landscape that perfectly mirrors the despair and hopelessness conveyed in the lyrics. It serves as a reminder of the fragility of our planet and the consequences of our actions.

This song resonates with me on a personal level, as it reflects my own concerns about the state of our world. It is a wake-up call to the destructive path we are on and the urgent need for change. Electric Wizard’s ability to merge powerful music with thought-provoking lyrics is what makes them a standout band in the doom metal genre.

Album Information

“Funeralopolis” is featured on Electric Wizard’s iconic album, Dopethrone, released on October 9, 2000. Regarded as the band’s most popular release, Dopethrone solidified their status as doom metal legends. The album’s overall dark and heavy sound, coupled with its lyrical themes of despair and destruction, resonated with a wide audience.

Credits

Produced by Rolf Startin, the song was written by Tim Bagshaw and Jus Oborn. The artwork for the album was created by Jus Oborn, Tim Bagshaw, and Hugh Gilmour. Rolf Startin handled the engineering, while the arrangements were done by Electric Wizard. Mark Greening provided the drums, Tim Bagshaw played bass, and Jus Oborn served as the vocalist and guitarist. The album was released under the label Rise Above.

In Conclusion

“Funeralopolis” by Electric Wizard is a powerful and thought-provoking song that explores the slow decay of our planet and the bleakness of existence. It is a call to action and a reminder of the consequences of our actions. Electric Wizard’s ability to create a haunting atmosphere through their music and lyrics is what sets them apart and has solidified their place as one of the most influential doom metal bands.

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