Addiction doesn't just impact those struggling with substance abuse, but also the people who love them. That's the story line for Bad Wolves' emotional video for "Sober," which dropped on Monday (Jan. 13). "This song was incredibly important to me as it gives a voice to not only the addict but the families and loved ones who are so deeply effected by the cycle of drug and alcohol abuse," wrote singer Tommy Vext in an Instagram message, in which he thanked director Nick Peterson for the hard work in "bringing my these true stories of my sober brothers and sisters who have recovered into the songs powerful message."
The clip opens with a voiceover describing how alcoholism doesn't discriminate between sex, race, gender identity or religion, "it just wants to destroy your life." The action turns to an AA-style meeting, in which we meet a series of addicts acting out their stories of struggle, which have devastating effects on their children, spouses, friends and family.
"And I knew you're stoned and I can see it/ The struggle's getting old/ For a moment I can wait," Vext sings in the urgent metal ballad. "'Cause you said you're sober/ Lying and I can't get closer/ Tell me should I let you go?/ Tell me should I let you go?" The song appears on the bands 2019 sophomore album, N.A.T.I.O.N., which was released in October.
"And of course to everyone who supports our band, our vision and those who struggle in and out of recovery, we thank you & hope that you know none of us are alone in this," Vext added. "Life is an occasion. Together We can rise to it, one day at a time."
Bad Wolves will open for Five Finger Death Punch and Megadeth on a European tour that will kick off on Jan. 20.
Watch the "Sober" video below.
