Stages (song)

Stages is a song by the English rock band Avenged Sevenfold. It appears as the opening track on their 2007 album, ''Avenged Sevenfold''. The song is notable for its driving rhythm, heavy guitar riffs, and M. Shadows' powerful vocals. Lyrically, "Stages" deals with the themes of mortality, remembrance, and the cyclical nature of life and death. It's considered by many fans and critics to be a highlight of the album and showcases the band's blend of hard rock and melodic elements. The song's structure is fairly standard for a metal track, featuring verses, choruses, a bridge, and a guitar solo. Its use of dynamic shifts in tempo and intensity contributes to its overall impact. While a specific meaning isn't explicitly stated, the song's lyrical imagery evokes a sense of reflection and acceptance regarding life's inevitable end.