No Kings delivers a blistering commentary on corruption and power with their track “Hydra,” wielding metaphorical serpents as weapons of truth. The song masterfully weaves mythology with modern protest, creating a powerful statement about resistance against oppressive authority.

The track opens with razor-sharp precision, immediately establishing its rebellious tone through the vivid imagery of a serpentine adversary waging war on “soldiers’ lives.” The lyrics paint a picture of manipulation and betrayal, where cannon fodder becomes a chilling metaphor for expendable lives sacrificed for someone else’s agenda.

What makes “Hydra” particularly compelling is its clever use of snake imagery throughout. The reference to Ouroboros – the ancient symbol of a snake eating its own tail – perfectly captures the cyclical nature of power and corruption. The band transforms this ancient symbol into a modern battle cry, especially powerful in the lines “The hunter is hunted / How does that feel? / The pawn takes the king / When you break your deals.”