This is one of my favourites from the 2011 album, 'More Songs About Demons' . Those who remember 'The New War' from the later 'Incubi and Succubi' album may recognise the opening line which was reused.
This new version uses the vocals from the original 1/2" master tape, but adds proper electric bass. Otherwise it's pretty true to the original.
lyrics
Niall’s Story (from ‘More Songs About Demons’, 2011)
There was a great war, for thousands of years
It took my species to the brink of destruction
It left us hated, they think we're all monsters
They try to lynch us for the slightest infraction
They say we number about 40'000 - If we were wildlife they'd try to preserve us
Things are not hopeless, our numbers are rising
But every execution makes me feel nervous
What would I do to save another of my race?
Why should I keep their laws when justice is defaced?
Maybe I'm a dreamer, but my back's against the wall...
I can't allow another head to fall.
When I was younger, still only a child
They tried to hang me as some “servant of darkness”
My father saved me and since I was rescued
I've turned my thoughts towards the plight of the helpless
I've heard a rumour from some distant village,
My spies have told me of a person in danger.
They plan to kill him because he is different
His crime was just to be a wandering stranger
I saw them bind him with enchantments so he couldn't escape
I saw them making up the evidence to charge him with rape
They strapped him onto the platform, they raised the blade upon high
And as the prosecutor lied I realised I couldn't leave him to die
The crowd went silent as the prosecutor gazed at the skies
Their victim's life began to flash before his watering eyes
I saw them pulling the lever, that's when I set off the charge
And as the guillotine exploded there were loads of angry people at large
My name is Niall, I've made it my mission
to save my people from unjust persecution
I risk my own life, but I think it’s worth it
if I can even stop just one execution
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