Supergroup The Defiant have released the third single off their upcoming album, If We’re Really Being Honest.
The third single from the supergroup — "Where Did Lady Liberty Go?" — suggests the American value of liberty has disappeared in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020.
The track discusses demands made during the COVID-19 pandemic "for humanity's sake" which some have suggested directly violated the American spirit of freedom and individuality. Those who stood in defiance or questioned COVID mandates were "kicked to the curb," the song states.
"Oh no / Where did Lady Liberty go?" asks lead singer Dicky Barrett, formerly of The Mighty Mighty BossToneS. "Oh dear / She packed up and hightailed it outta here."
"The silenced were silent / The sidelines were full," Barrett laments, referencing haunting images of concerts and sporting events held remotely during the pandemic.
The song also contrasts responses to the pandemic in which some sought solace internally while others "would just look around them."
"Keep your eyes on the shepherd and not on the sheep / Just be happy you finally found them," Barrett sings.
The Defiant has released two other songs, "Where Were You?" and "Dead Language," which discuss feelings of abandonment by previous friends along with anti-social behavior in a world dominated by smartphones.
The Defiant consists of five former members of previously established bands, including former drummer of The Offspring Pete Parada, former Smash Mouth guitarist Greg Camp, former Street Dogs bassist Johnny Rioux, former member of The Briggs Joey La Rocca on guitar and keys, and lead singer Barrett.
“All I’ve ever really wanted to do is bring people together and share a message of peace, love, and unity,” says Barrett of the super group. “With that in mind, the music created by The Defiant could very well be some of the best I’ve ever had a hand in making, as well as one of the most important and thoughtful musical experiences of my career. I am thrilled to be a part of it.”
Parada, who began his tenure with the Offspring in 2007, was kicked out of the band in 2021 after refusing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine due to the fact he had Guillain-Barré syndrome. Parada further noted his doctor advised against taking the vaccination and suggested the injection could lead to further health risks.
Following his departure from the Offspring, Parada partnered with Timcast owner and CEO Tim Pool for a series of songs released by the podcaster.
Pool’s “Only Ever Wanted” was released in August 2022, followed by the release of “Genocide” in November.
In March, Pool released his latest single “Bright Eyes,” featuring Phil Labonte, lead singer of heavy metal band All That Remains.
Pool’s songs were produced, mixed, and mastered by Carter Banks.
