View Full Version : Rise Against - Appeal to Reason
Chris Fallon
10/06/08, 02:46 AM
Rise Against - Appeal to Reason
Record Label: Geffen Records
Release Date: October 7, 2008
We're broken but still breathing / We are wounded but we are healing / We pick right up where we left off / Breathe on the ashed that remained.
Ahhh, you smell that? It's political opinion warfare, something that goes together with the anti-establishment style of melodic hardcore like hockey moms & Joe Sixpacks. Whenever highly-charged political calendars raise their agenda-minded heads, you can expect an intelligent band to poke its head out of the crowd with lyrics that aren't simply ill-informed propaganda to influence the wrong mindset -- there are actually many bands out there with some brains, who have the tools of music to use as their pedestal to raise awareness rather than preach to the Myspace masses (or is it Facebook now? I can't keep track of all the hip fads you kids are into...).
Entering into the most recent foray of such styles of politically-fueled punk rock is Chicago's Rise Against, releasing their fifth album in nine years, Appeal to Reason. After finding an ample amount of success with their last release, the band continues to stick with the familiar formula, working with renowned punk producers Bill Stevenson and Jason Livermore (Blasting Room Studios) to make an album that contains less radio-friendly anthems for a generation stuck on following the latest hook.
To longtime followers of the melodic hardcore scene, it might sound all too familiar -- Rise Against essentially steps up to snatch the torch from Bad Religion as the new go-to band for recognizing society's problems. The melodies, the fiery drum beats, the static-charged solos ring loud reminders of Recipe For Hate with a dash of cleanly-produced tracks for good measure. This is far from bad, it's just a minor drawback that keeps the band from reaching its own creative peak. Tim McIlrath has found his voice and treats the record as a canvas for his roughneck screams and slow, curling build-ups in order to stand out as the band's voice of -- wait for it -- reason ("Whereabouts Unknown"); at times he resembles Thrice's Dustin Kensrue, able to blend well within the band's sound, capturing the tone in his vocal chords without really trying. "Long Forgotten Sons," a likely candidate for the next single, is a blistering anthem of identity that showcases McIlrath's renegade chops that sound so powerful, it's as if they are trying to set themselves free from his throat.
As mentioned before, the one noticeable flaw with this album is the resemblance it bears to other noteworthy acts. "The Dirt Whispered" has a jangly bass rhythm and bouncy lyrics that remind of AFI and Strung Out; "Collapse (Post-Amerika)" is reminiscent of recent Bad Religion; "Savior" riffs like Alkaline Trio (oddly enough, Matt Skiba guests on the next cut); and "Audience of One" has some awkward Goo Goo Dolls moments in some of its melodies (listen to the verses ... kind of a punk rock John Rzeznik). You could say Rise Against has simply gathered up the bits and pieces of bands that have obviously influenced them -- many bands do this, merely ripping off their peers -- and thankfully for McIlrath's vocals, it's still Rise Against. Not to take away from the talents of the other band members, as Joe Principe's bass brings adept stability to the fold and Brandon Barnes' drumkit is torn to shreds from the severity that he hits it with. Zach Blair and McIlrath play dueling banjos most of the time on guitars, bouncing off each other, providing plenty of fire for the band's protests (although, ironically, the most effective song is the acoustic "Hero of War," a song that would have been a fit Vietnam War anthem).
Appeal to Reason is essentially focused on one big thing: intelligence. There is no fluff here -- the band has put together a fast, smart and generally focused piece of work here. Sure, it's not going down in the annals of punk rock history quite yet, but with any luck the band will be recognized for creating music that says something for the underdogs in a society that seems to be crumbling away with each and every glance. "Spin out of control / Try to recover, but collide with each other," sings McIlrath on "Kotov Syndrome," a lyric that fits especially well in our current period. The rollicking good time of "Entertainment" (with it's circus-oriented bridge and all) could potentially be the theme song for what our nation is going through at the moment, and hey -- of all the bands to be your voice of reason, you couldn't find too many these days that kick your ass while making a good point at the same time.
Bad Religion's Stranger Than Fiction; Strung Out's Blackhawks Over Los Angeles; Hot Water Music's A Flight and a Crash; Anti-Flag's For Blood and Empire"Entertainment," "Hero of War" and "Long Forgotten Sons"
1. Collapse (Post-Amerika)
2. Long Forgotten Sons
3. Re-Education (Through Labor)
4. The Dirt Whispered
5. Kotov Syndrome
6. From Heads Unworthy
7. The Strength to Go On
8. Audience of One
9. Entertainment
10. Hero of War
11. Savior
12. Hairline Fracture (ft. Matt Skiba of Alkaline Trio)
13. Whereabouts UnknownTim McIlrath: lead vocals/guitar
Zach Blair: guitar/vocals
Joe Principe: bass/vocals
Brandon Barnes: drums
Official Site (http://www.riseagainst.com) | Official Myspace (http://www.myspace.com/riseagainst)Amazon MP3 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001HDYLYK?ie=UTF8&tag=absolutepun02-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001HDYLYK)
Pawan1993
10/06/08, 03:24 AM
Man I can't wait to hear this. Gonna buy it tomorrow!
Great review Chris.
Chris Fallon
10/06/08, 03:37 AM
Good review. I am so disappointed by this album and thinks its complete dogshit. Rise Against is one of my favorites bands and I love all their records and I think they improve with each release. I guess that just changed This album was very boring, bland, lacked emotion, had no standout tracks except for Hero of War, and was not angry sounding enough. I'm also disappointed by the lyrics which are sub par this time. I relate on a personal level with so many of Rise Against's song and this album had no lyrics that meant anything to me. After 4-5 listens I don't think I'll be listening to this anytime soon.
Interesting. Besides the creativity, I feel like this album may be their tamest, but brings out a lot in the band in terms of Tim's vocal ability and the themes touched upon. It might not be as angry, however the lyrics still pack a punch in speaking from a point of view I feel many of us can relate to.
Then again, I'm not as nearly a Rise Against fan as you seem to be -- I love their work and appreciate everything they have done over the years, perhaps not to the extent you have. Thanks for the insight -- though I'm sorry you don't like the album.
There is such a great feeling in some of these lyrics. I feel like this ought to have been rated a little higher but I won't harp on the subject.
From what I've heard it's my favorite Rise Against to date and they're becoming better and better with every release.
cereal4life
10/06/08, 04:20 AM
The album cover art looks pretty darn ugly!
hockeyguitar99
10/06/08, 05:19 AM
I'm excited for this release. It is Top 10 contender for me forsure.
Timetoroll
10/06/08, 05:28 AM
Wish it was angrier. Rise Against has always been my favorite angerpunk band. Hopefully, this will still be good. Nice review Chris.
I only listened to this record once for the moment, but I was a little disappointed. Where has all their rage gone? It's not angry enough, it's too soft!
Love what I've heard so far and can't wait for tomorrow.
newfoundmichael
10/06/08, 08:57 AM
How long can a band keep re-writing the same album? This sounds more like a greatest hits album than a progression to me.
aradiantsunrise
10/06/08, 09:07 AM
Great review, Chris. Would you say It's better or worse than their previous album?
Özgür Kurtoglu
10/06/08, 09:12 AM
Horrendous album cover, good review, and I will return when I know how I feel about the album.
RelientMayday
10/06/08, 09:14 AM
Wow I'm excited. Getting this ASAP. Good review Chris
Drew Beringer
10/06/08, 09:17 AM
ATR hasn't clicked with me yet.
AP_Punk
10/06/08, 09:20 AM
good album. and good review, chris. these guys are total mavericks!!
but when it comes to smart, politically charged punk rock, new propagandhi will blow this away! :-p
ghelms88
10/06/08, 09:27 AM
I don't think I could hate anything that Rise Against comes out with. Another great album by then. Great review also.
S9Dallasoz
10/06/08, 09:27 AM
"Savior" FTW
MyWorldEntire
10/06/08, 09:32 AM
Great review, really looking forward to hearing this tomorrow.
lenard27
10/06/08, 09:37 AM
Good review. I haven't heard the whole album yet, but it captures the essence of the songs that I have heard. I do wish RA would get a little more creative, but the songs they write are always solid, so I can't really complain too much.
RetardedInLove
10/06/08, 09:47 AM
How long can a band keep re-writing the same album? This sounds more like a greatest hits album than a progression to me.
I agree. But its more like how can a band keep re-writing the same song?? As much praise as Siren Song and Sufferer got, they both have a lot of filler. They haven't written a full, cohesive album since Revolutions Per Minute and I have given up thinking they will ever top that.
spansen
10/06/08, 09:51 AM
i'm picking this one up tomorrow..
Big_Guy
10/06/08, 09:56 AM
shit album. no passion left in this band.
their last decent album was Siren Song which was also kinda crap.
Nice reference to Strung Out! Has spiked my interest in checking this out. Haven't really listened to Rise Against since "Black Masks & Gasoline", but "The Sufferer & The Witness" sounded like a pretty decent release that sort of slipped beneath my radar.
Will definitely pick up a copy tomorrow though and hope it won't be completely overshadowed by the new These Arms Are Snakes album...
allhollows86
10/06/08, 10:17 AM
does anyone know if skiba is singing on the backing or part lead
Özgür Kurtoglu
10/06/08, 10:18 AM
Will definitely pick up a copy tomorrow though and hope it won't be completely overshadowed by the new These Arms Are Snakes album...
Tail Swallower and Dove is a stunner. I've heard about These Arms Are Snakes for years and decided to check it out recently, and that album just knocked me on my ass. I don't know if it was just me, but expect it to overshadow Appeal to Reason.
Heart-A-Tact
10/06/08, 10:24 AM
I've never been able to get into these guys, aside from 3 or 4 songs.
LiquorAndDick
10/06/08, 10:27 AM
I'm not a fan of this record. I definetely prefer them when they are angry because they pack more of a punch.
delvec19
10/06/08, 10:42 AM
awesome album, rise against never disappoints!
Phil507
10/06/08, 10:43 AM
When I first listened to this my initial reaction seemed to be that it puts them at a stand-still. However, there are so many songs that keep sticking with (particularly "Savior"). Though many long-time RA fans will disagree, I think Sufferer still stands as their best work. However, this should keep their success going.
I moderately enjoy every song on the album except "Hero of War". I know they're a political band and all, I just hate this song. "Savior" on the other hand, is one of my favorite RA songs yet.
Scott Weber
10/06/08, 11:16 AM
This album is a JOKE. I can't even begin to describe how upset I am at this release. It's not even remotely punk anymore, it's caught in this disaster of mid-tempo bullshit, the lyrics are cliche and unoriginal, "audience of one" sounds like it's a fucking Goo Goo Dolls song or something. This is truly, truly awful and not even just by the high standards I have for Rise Against (Counter Culture was my top album of '04), it's just seriously horrible. It's times like this that I wish I was still writing reviews because this album is a disaster, maybe the worst album I've taken the time to listen to this year. Even the songs that have some promise never even come close to reaching the potential they have, they just sit back in this restrained mainstream tempo-line. No edge, no emotion, just crap.
Only remotely decent songs: "Savior", "Entertainment."
Drew Beringer
10/06/08, 11:27 AM
This album is a JOKE. I can't even begin to describe how upset I am at this release. It's not even remotely punk anymore, it's caught in this disaster of mid-tempo bullshit, the lyrics are cliche and unoriginal, "audience of one" sounds like it's a fucking Goo Goo Dolls song or something. This is truly, truly awful and not even just by the high standards I have for Rise Against (Counter Culture was my top album of '04), it's just seriously horrible. It's times like this that I wish I was still writing reviews because this album is a disaster, maybe the worst album I've taken the time to listen to this year. Even the songs that have some promise never even come close to reaching the potential they have, they just sit back in this restrained mainstream tempo-line. No edge, no emotion, just crap.
Only remotely decent songs: "Savior", "Entertainment."
http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a298/Drew51/Ninjas_get_Roundhouse_Kicked.gif
Weebs just laid the smack down.
slimfenix182
10/06/08, 11:32 AM
This album is a JOKE. I can't even begin to describe how upset I am at this release. It's not even remotely punk anymore, it's caught in this disaster of mid-tempo bullshit, the lyrics are cliche and unoriginal, "audience of one" sounds like it's a fucking Goo Goo Dolls song or something. This is truly, truly awful and not even just by the high standards I have for Rise Against (Counter Culture was my top album of '04), it's just seriously horrible. It's times like this that I wish I was still writing reviews because this album is a disaster, maybe the worst album I've taken the time to listen to this year. Even the songs that have some promise never even come close to reaching the potential they have, they just sit back in this restrained mainstream tempo-line. No edge, no emotion, just crap.
Only remotely decent songs: "Savior", "Entertainment."
man. not even sure if I want to pick this up now. got their last two. hell, I'm seeing their show tonight, and I'm not even sure if I want to stay for them. I'm kind of thinking of ending my night with Alkaline Trio's set.
Perfect review. I really love this album and is currently in the top 10 of 08
TheOtherAndrew
10/06/08, 11:39 AM
How long can a band keep re-writing the same album? This sounds more like a greatest hits album than a progression to me.
This.
golferpunk1
10/06/08, 11:41 AM
How can there be much originality in punk/hardcore? I don't like how the reviewer accuses them of ripping off other bands because quite frankly in this genre there's not much originality. The essence of punk is the message and I think Rise Against has done an excellent job.
Scott Weber
10/06/08, 11:44 AM
How can there be much originality in punk/hardcore? I don't like how the reviewer accuses them of ripping off other bands because quite frankly in this genre there's not much originality. The essence of punk is the message and I think Rise Against has done an excellent job.
I don't agree. Musically, you can set yourself apart. While the message can be similar, it can be presented in fresh and unique ways, along with music that hasn't been done a thousand times before. Not only did Rise Against completely fail at the message, but the music is trash.
princesschad
10/06/08, 11:54 AM
This is not one of their better albums.
Özgür Kurtoglu
10/06/08, 11:55 AM
A punk album with a message, substance and great music, you say? Hm....
http://www.etudiants.phy.ulaval.ca/%7Epystl/Refused/Shape.jpg
Yeah, it's doable.
thedondeluge
10/06/08, 12:22 PM
The album cover art looks pretty darn ugly!
maybe it's a reflection of American Society.
dannyclv147
10/06/08, 12:38 PM
I could never get over the lead singers voice. I think they make good music however he sounds like he smokes ten packs a day. It just irritates me.
tommy's ghost
10/06/08, 12:47 PM
oh FUCK yea, i've been waiting a long time for this album... off topic, where's the Pink Spider's Sweat It Out review? good review btw.
Sikbeat37
10/06/08, 12:53 PM
I'm absolutely picking up this album, but it's worrying me that so many people have negative opinions of it. Oh well, every solid band can afford one throw away, right?
YouthMovement
10/06/08, 01:00 PM
well, i thoroughly enjoy this album. i think the messages are very well delivered and enjoy the way they wrapped it up in accessible, borderline poppish ways. i dont see why RA aren't allowed to release a "happier" album, there are plenty of angry punk bands out there to fuel your apparent angst.
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 01:04 PM
I only listened to this record once for the moment, but I was a little disappointed. Where has all their rage gone? It's not angry enough, it's too soft!
listen a few times, you'll find it
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 01:12 PM
How long can a band keep re-writing the same album? This sounds more like a greatest hits album than a progression to me.
i dont understand...
this one is so different from all the others
Indoor Living
10/06/08, 01:17 PM
Though it is a lot less angry than the rest of their stuff, I still like it a lot. They never fail to make good songs.
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 01:20 PM
This album is a JOKE. I can't even begin to describe how upset I am at this release. It's not even remotely punk anymore, it's caught in this disaster of mid-tempo bullshit, the lyrics are cliche and unoriginal, "audience of one" sounds like it's a fucking Goo Goo Dolls song or something. This is truly, truly awful and not even just by the high standards I have for Rise Against (Counter Culture was my top album of '04), it's just seriously horrible. It's times like this that I wish I was still writing reviews because this album is a disaster, maybe the worst album I've taken the time to listen to this year. Even the songs that have some promise never even come close to reaching the potential they have, they just sit back in this restrained mainstream tempo-line. No edge, no emotion, just crap.
Only remotely decent songs: "Savior", "Entertainment."
now i think this may be a little strong.
i love old rise against as much as the next guy, and they have been my favorite band since siren song... but i still think ATR is great. If you give the songs a chance, they are actually quite excellent.
but each to their own i suppose...
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 01:22 PM
A punk album with a message, substance and great music, you say? Hm....
http://www.etudiants.phy.ulaval.ca/%7Epystl/Refused/Shape.jpg
Yeah, it's doable.
You know...
i didn't really like this album.
but i tried.
drainyourheart
10/06/08, 01:26 PM
its a great album but I missed hearing Tim's scream through the whole album till the very last song. The new acoustic song on the album is really powerful I think.
Dagless
10/06/08, 01:27 PM
Although I think Rise Against are a good band and that they put out consistently good albums, I wish they'd try something different. I don't want a drastic change, but just something new. This album hasn't clicked fully with me yet, but I bought the CD this afternoon so maybe when I sit down to listen and follow the lyrics i'll appreciate it more. At the moment its my least favourite release from them so far.
Özgür Kurtoglu
10/06/08, 01:27 PM
You know...
i didn't really like this album.
but i tried.
It's not for everyone. I know tons of people who prefer Songs to Fan the Flames of Discontent over The Shape of Punk to Come. But to me this is a punk record that is great on very many levels, virtually every level.
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 01:28 PM
It's not for everyone. I know tons of people who prefer Songs to Fan the Flames of Discontent over The Shape of Punk to Come. But to me this is a punk record that is great on very many levels, virtually every level.
hmm. i can see where you are coming from, definitely.
SanePsychotic
10/06/08, 01:40 PM
Great review, as alawys. I'll pick up this record eventually - it sounds like it'd be worth my money.
c_rob2700
10/06/08, 01:45 PM
How long can a band keep re-writing the same album? This sounds more like a greatest hits album than a progression to me.
This.
and I think Rise Against and Senses Fail released albums on the same day last time too
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 01:49 PM
This.
and I think Rise Against and Senses Fail released albums on the same day last time too
oh great, you again
DazedandCnfused
10/06/08, 01:51 PM
From what I've heard so far, I think this album is decent. It has a few standout songs, but I don't think it has grown on me enough for me to make a sufficient opinion of it yet either. I feel like it's similar to their other albums because while it has a lot of really good songs, it also has a lot of filler too. I'm a fan of RA, but I don't think they've quite accomplished making a consistent record yet where every single song on it is solid. But there are always gems, songs that stand out, on all their records that make purchasing their music worth it. And I still love them to death! Kinda like the Foo Fighters for me, they have some great fucking songs, but a lot of their albums aren't consistent either because they mix in some lack luster songs along with the really good ones.
Wez1212Yes
10/06/08, 02:37 PM
It's a great album, not their best and still not up there with the likes of A-F and Bad Religion, but it's still good.
Those of you moaning about it not being angry enough, believe me it's still there, obviously it's not as raw as before but it's just as passionate and that is what really matters with punk, the message not the aggression, remember The Clash's Know Your Rights?!?
Battle Hymns
10/06/08, 02:40 PM
This album is lame. Sounds like typical radio alternative rock.
Wez1212Yes
10/06/08, 02:40 PM
A punk album with a message, substance and great music, you say? Hm....
http://www.etudiants.phy.ulaval.ca/%7Epystl/Refused/Shape.jpg
Yeah, it's doable.
So, so true!
Wez1212Yes
10/06/08, 02:41 PM
What so many of you seem to forget is that punk isn't a type of music or an image but simply the ethics a band carries and this album contains that and whether it be Converge or the acoustic punk of The King Blues it doesn't fucking matter.
Scott Weber
10/06/08, 02:45 PM
What so many of you seem to forget is that punk isn't a type of music or an image but simply the ethics a band carries and this album contains that and whether it be Converge or the acoustic punk of The King Blues it doesn't fucking matter.
punk exists as a message, it also exists as a style of music/genre. this album fails at achieving the latter.
Wez1212Yes
10/06/08, 02:58 PM
punk exists as a message, it also exists as a style of music/genre. this album fails at achieving the latter.
Oh well, I guess we'll have to agree to disagree haha.
Poochemist
10/06/08, 03:06 PM
Very well-done review, Chris. I haven't heard the album yet so I can't comment on accuracy, but well-written.
can't wait to pick this up tomorrow!
eleven eleven
10/06/08, 03:54 PM
I see what you are saying but still disagree. Scott Weber summed up exactly how I feel about the album. I just realized the same last name as me. I guess great minds think alike.
:hitself:
Scott Weber
10/06/08, 03:55 PM
I see what you are saying but still disagree. Scott Weber summed up exactly how I feel about the album. I just realized the same last name as me. I guess great minds think alike.
:beerbros:
YeahRiight
10/06/08, 05:04 PM
Is a pretty big disappointment to me. I thought that "Sufferer" was pretty brilliant, it balances the heavy and soft perfectly. This one just has way too many low key, slow songs that all sound the same.
Its not bad on its on merits, but considering what we all know Rise Against can do, it disappoints me. And the lead guitar is so boring now. Chasse had some sweet riffs on the last album, the new guy needs to step up.
mybreakingpoint
10/06/08, 05:14 PM
buying this very early tomorrow. can't wait.
daygreen89
10/06/08, 05:18 PM
im excited for this album.
drivethruaz
10/06/08, 06:15 PM
super excited for this album, however the sound; I don't think I could be let down
Rise Against is an amazing band with so much talent
YouthMovement
10/06/08, 06:29 PM
Is a pretty big disappointment to me. I thought that "Sufferer" was pretty brilliant, it balances the heavy and soft perfectly. This one just has way too many low key, slow songs that all sound the same.
Its not bad on its on merits, but considering what we all know Rise Against can do, it disappoints me. And the lead guitar is so boring now. Chasse had some sweet riffs on the last album, the new guy needs to step up.
this is easily my largest criticism of the newer stuff, and i think that speaks volumes for Chris Chasse as a guitarist and musician overall, as i can't remember the last time the absence of a guitarist affected my enjoyment of a band other than this. really, when you think about it, Chris's absence could be a large part of this "lack of anger". i mean, his guitar work has really meshed well with Tim's voice to set the tone of their previous two releases. i think this is more the case with Mohney, as RPM is, in my book, the most emotional of all their work, including The Unraveling. Blair's got talent, i think it was more Tim's direction with these songs that made things turn out the way they did.
on a side note, i love the opening instrumentals to Audience of One, and really wish bands would play around with this more often.
ActOfPeace
10/06/08, 07:22 PM
Hero of war made me buy this album
darkmartheight
10/06/08, 07:27 PM
i like it. its good. not their best, but still good.
mr chainsaw
10/06/08, 08:30 PM
Revolutions per Minute was so good. They haven't impressed since. They also have no business headlining a tour that also includes Alkaline Trio.
mickmadethelist
10/06/08, 09:04 PM
shit album. no passion left in this band.
their last decent album was Siren Song which was also kinda crap.
Siren song was their most over produced album and had the most "radio friendly" jams. The band has said this themselves. I still like the songs but it wasnt as gritty as the others. And honestly, saying there is no passion left in the band is probably coming from someone not listening. They aren't plying the fireside anymore, but they still work their ass off and preach everything they believe. Their new video is blowing up chicago (literally) and they havent made a single move that contradicted themselves. The budget is bigger, but all the passion is still there if not more.
I have NOT heard the album yet and chances are it will be pretty obvious it's a rise against record. They wear their influences on their sleeve and scream about what they believe in. Can't really argue with that.
Rxbandit22
10/06/08, 09:17 PM
TSATW is by far my favorite Rise Against album.
And at first listens of it, I hated it.
Thought it was total crap.
Now I love it.
I'm feeling the same way about this cd.
But I don't think I'm going to grow to love this cd.
It's very mediocre at best.
They really traded in there fast angry punk rock for radio rock songs.
After only one listen, I'm highly disappointed.
Hopefully this grows on me.
I really like Rise Against, and don't want this album to be terrible.
fsmith84
10/06/08, 09:18 PM
punk exists as a message, it also exists as a style of music/genre. this album fails at achieving the latter.
Does it need to achieve both?
This is true - punk is two very different things, confused often as one circular movement.
A band can be "punk" without playing punk rock. A band can play "punk" sounding music without "punk" overtones. We shouldn't get too worked up about either one. There are far too many cultural clashes based on simple misgivings when a person who is participant in either culture attempts to make "their" beliefs a cohesive part of the other cultural movement. I'm actually working on a grad school thesis on this very topic, so I have a lot of interesting references if anyone is curious about the body of work that has gone into researching the subculture of punk vs. the mass-produced "product" of punk - "Subculture: The Meaning of Style" is a great starting point...
But to the point:
As far as the album goes, musically I love and dislike some songs on the album. I think their poppiest songs (Kotov Syndrome, The Dirt Whispered) are among the best hooks they've ever written, and I think there are some that are throw-away...but this is from a guy who prefers TSATW to SSOTCC.
I think he's being much more subtle in the lyrics as far as digs at certain movements, but I do still see a lot of anger, particularly with the apathy most Americans have with their lives - that we're completely content to get bent over a barstool of taxes and fucked to oblivion by special interests, serially pregnant hockey moms and hedge fund fat cats that are taking your education, your home and your future and using it to pave their driveway. And we SHOULD be mad about it, but most people are content to sit around, buy another round and lament that things will never change. Perhaps on this album, Rise Against has decided to do the same.
Rxbandit22
10/06/08, 09:19 PM
Revolutions per Minute was so good. They haven't impressed since. They also have no business headlining a tour that also includes Alkaline Trio.
Coming from someone whose name is an Alk3 song :-p
Seriously, out of Thrice/Alk3/Rise Against, could you really choose someone that should headline this tour?
Each of those bands has been around quite a long time,making pretty amazing albums, and they are all phenomenal.
I can't wait for this tour.
Gaslight fo lyfe yo.
slimfenix182
10/06/08, 10:36 PM
Coming from someone whose name is an Alk3 song :-p
Seriously, out of Thrice/Alk3/Rise Against, could you really choose someone that should headline this tour?
Each of those bands has been around quite a long time,making pretty amazing albums, and they are all phenomenal.
I can't wait for this tour.
Gaslight fo lyfe yo.
just went to this show tonight in Worcester, Mass. sucks not hearing "radio" since alk3 doesnt get an encore. but yeah, you couldn't put together a better tour these days in my opinion. all 3 bands should get an hour as far as I'm concerned. plus I met alk3 and got a cd signed. they are such low-key dudes and so nice.
I really want to get into Gaslight, but try as I might, I can't. all their songs kinda run together for me. they're pretty good live though. I ain't hatin.
Chris Fallon
10/07/08, 12:50 AM
This album is a JOKE. I can't even begin to describe how upset I am at this release. It's not even remotely punk anymore, it's caught in this disaster of mid-tempo bullshit, the lyrics are cliche and unoriginal, "audience of one" sounds like it's a fucking Goo Goo Dolls song or something. This is truly, truly awful and not even just by the high standards I have for Rise Against (Counter Culture was my top album of '04), it's just seriously horrible. It's times like this that I wish I was still writing reviews because this album is a disaster, maybe the worst album I've taken the time to listen to this year. Even the songs that have some promise never even come close to reaching the potential they have, they just sit back in this restrained mainstream tempo-line. No edge, no emotion, just crap.
Only remotely decent songs: "Savior", "Entertainment."
C'mon now, don't you think you're being just a bit harsh? There is much, much worse out there and while I agree it could be angrier, they have the right idea going -- after a few listens, it began to catch on with me in terms of lyrics and Tim's vocals. The rest can bleed together at times, sure, but it's hardly the worst album to come out this year, even in its genre.
It's probably my least favorite album by the band, but I stand by my review and hope people give it a chance.
Scott Weber
10/07/08, 08:08 AM
C'mon now, don't you think you're being just a bit harsh? There is much, much worse out there and while I agree it could be angrier, they have the right idea going -- after a few listens, it began to catch on with me in terms of lyrics and Tim's vocals. The rest can bleed together at times, sure, but it's hardly the worst album to come out this year, even in its genre.
It's probably my least favorite album by the band, but I stand by my review and hope people give it a chance.
The problem is that I think music is in such a sad state today that I've really only taken the time to listen to maybe 20 releases this year. Of those that I've actually given the time to listen to, this may be only rivaled by Valencia as the worst albums I've heard. I listened to it again last night and it was a struggle to make it all the way through. Sad stuff.
A punk album with a message, substance and great music, you say? Hm....
http://www.etudiants.phy.ulaval.ca/%7Epystl/Refused/Shape.jpg
Yeah, it's doable.
http://smileys.touslessmileys.com/s54/1008/8218.gif
The problem is that I think music is in such a sad state today that I've really only taken the time to listen to maybe 20 releases this year. Of those that I've actually given the time to listen to, this may be only rivaled by Valencia as the worst albums I've heard. I listened to it again last night and it was a struggle to make it all the way through. Sad stuff.
I see I'm not the only one on AP.net to hate Valencia.:-)
DI Pistola
10/07/08, 10:44 AM
Despite all the squabbling, if anything, this record should be known hereafter for "Hero of War." Bummer that it took 30 years for an anthem like this to roll around.
Chris Fallon
10/07/08, 12:47 PM
The problem is that I think music is in such a sad state today that I've really only taken the time to listen to maybe 20 releases this year. Of those that I've actually given the time to listen to, this may be only rivaled by Valencia as the worst albums I've heard. I listened to it again last night and it was a struggle to make it all the way through. Sad stuff.
I will confess I do give everything a chance and probably like more than I should, however, I feel a low B is the right grade for this album -- not bad, not great, but better than being pure shit. It's cool though, dude, you have your right to say that considering that yes, it can be a sad musical world we live in, flooded with lack of creativity rather than art.
joshtinpowers
10/07/08, 01:05 PM
I got tickled at the liner notes for the album, where the band encourages you to see the documentary that bashes WalMart: "The High Cost of Low Price." It made me laugh because I actually bought my copy of "Appeal to Reason" from WalMart.
lastgiantrobot
10/07/08, 07:53 PM
I am not a "punk" as I suppose most people define it so my take on ATP may seem out of place but I do feel the need to talk about Rise Against's latest album and its preachiness.
I came to love Rise Against and all of their previous albums before ATP because of the anger and rage that they so eloquently sang about, about fighting back no matter how beat down you were. "Injection" was the most compelling song because at the time I was learning how to walk again after being hit with Lupus and was being told by doctors and family to drop out of school.. but I just demanded more steroids and pushed harder on numb legs. I am not cruising for pity points merely demonstrating where I am coming from. I was railing against myself/God/my condition not "the system" as it were.
But then ATP came out and I was saddened by their preachiness, a sin that it seems every band falls prey to at one time or another. "Hero of War" which I do not dispute is a well made song, is also myopic in its depiction of the war. Perhaps I am biased because I come from a military family and was in Rotc before things went sideways for me, but my friends and family do not paint such a simple picture. He does not sing about the suicide bombers who tape canisters of chlorine to their body and dress as women, and he does not sing about fanatics beating women to death because they talked with someone from a different sect of Islam. I am not saying its all unicorns and rainbows over there, I am just saying it is not as simple as that song makes it out to be.
But the final straw was the booklet with the command to see Sicko and the Walmart documentary... as if they were the truth, as if those things would open your eyes to the world. Well it should also be recommended that you take several years of economics and game theory as well. Not to turn this into a discussion of politics but Sicko whitewashes the problems that socialized healthcare, which if it were perfect then those countries would not have private hospitals and doctors as well. And the walmart film fails to address the fact that people want lower prices and gave their consent to walmart's business model by continuing to shop there.
I apologize if this comment seems like it is trying to be a political rant or if I just engaged in a narcissistic outburst with personal details but I just wanted ATP to be "angerpunk" as a previous poster put it and not "preachypunk" and needed to vent.
SeanEBoy2686
10/07/08, 07:57 PM
just went to this show tonight in Worcester, Mass. sucks not hearing "radio" since alk3 doesnt get an encore.
They played 'Radio' at the Cleveland show... ended their set with it. You woulda thought they were the headliner considering how much the crowd was into it. It was awesome.
TSATW is by far my favorite Rise Against album.
And at first listens of it, I hated it.
Thought it was total crap.
Now I love it.
...
They really traded in there fast angry punk rock for radio rock songs.
You could make an argument for the growing lack of 'angriness' throughout the past three albums, but since 'Siren Song...' a majority of their albums have consisted of radio rock songs. With the exception of 'State of the Union' and 'Bricks' i think their sound has been fairly consistent over the past three albums. The 'angry' sound is still there, but a little weaker I think. Overall I think this album is decent, I definitely don't hate it like some people here do, and their message is still there.
This album is being unfairly bashed.
First off Rise Against isn't going back to The Unraveling/RPM days, so those who were complaining it wasn't punk enough gimme a break. You should've known this was the direction they were taking with how the last two albums sounded.
This album isn't as good as Sufferer, but I still like it alot. Tim's voice is the best of any record they have done so far. However alot of the songs sound the same...same tempo...same guitars...same bridge where they go to Tim singing the chorus along to acoustics.
Top 3 songs:
1) Savior
2) The Dirt Whispered (poppy yes, but still enjoyable)
3) Kotov Syndrome
slimfenix182
10/07/08, 10:07 PM
They played 'Radio' at the Cleveland show... ended their set with it. You woulda thought they were the headliner considering how much the crowd was into it. It was awesome.
damn you. haha. they did play the first 5 songs off "agony." including "over and out" for the first time they said. that song was really good live. its all good. the crowd was hella into them here too
I've been waiting for this record forever, and I was also very disappointed at first, but after several listens its really grown on me a lot even though there are still 4 songs I absolutely can't stand. I decided to throw away "From Heads Unworthy", "The Strength to go On", "Audience of One", and "Re-Education", and then add in the two bonus tracks to the mix "Elective Amnesia", and "Historia Calimatatum"(my favorite song on the whole album) into my own custom playlist, and you then have a more up-tempo great record that's flow is not ruined by three forgettable songs in a row. Savior, Collapse, The Dirt Whispered, Kotov syndrome, and Entertainment are all really good songs that any RA fan should like. Zach Blair's guitar parts also seemed very boring to me at first, but now every time I listen to this record I hear more and more really cool parts that you only notice over multiple listens.
Appeal to Reason (the good version)
1. Collapse
2. The Dirt Whispered
3. Kotov Syndrome
4. Long Forgotten Sons
5. Entertainment
6. Whereabouts Unknown
7. Elective Amnesia
8. Hero Of War
9. Savior
10 Hairline Fracture
11.Historia Calamitatum
The leftover crap would make one of the worst EP's in history.
cliffridesdinos
10/08/08, 06:09 AM
you know, you make mentions of they seem to sound very similar to bands who came along before them. yet, you dont mention that over and over again, theyve copied themselves. every song seems to sound the same. i have not listened to this album yet, but if the first few listens bring about similar tracks once again, i'll have lost all hope for this band ever branching out.
the album is currently number one on the Itunes charts. Quite a suprise, looks like these guys are blowing up.
youk1122
10/08/08, 12:45 PM
Good review. This album is going to be huge. I wish 88 Fingers Louie would get back together though.
AntiCitizeN
10/08/08, 05:59 PM
This is not one of their better albums.
I agree there but its not their worst either.
guiguedz
10/09/08, 11:03 AM
Rise Against are better as a whole in Appeal to Reason, but it lacks the combo of originality + power that made The Sufferer & The Witness such a great album. It's good, but I can't stop the feeling that it could be better.
alexisaftermath
10/09/08, 01:27 PM
love the album:) love them!
MyWorldEntire
10/09/08, 05:49 PM
Right now, this is my runner-up for album of the year. I love the direction they went it, slowing down their sound a little but still sound like Rise Against. Hero of War may be one of my top 5 favorite songs from this year.
bmitchell21
10/10/08, 12:48 PM
I think that everyone is being way too cruel. From reading everything, I've gathered this:
Everyone loves RPM
Mixed on Siren Song
Most people seem to love Sufferer
I don't get it. Yes, RPM is amazing. It's actually better than that. It's beyond words. Siren Song is criticized for being to radio friendly. Okay... ridiculous. State of the Union anyone? I don't get the love for Sufferer. I love RA. They are my favorite band ever. I have the heartfist on my car. They do no wrong to me. But Sufferer? I believe it to be their weakest. Songs like The Good Left Undone, Behind Close Doors, Under the Knife, all run together. Sufferer was slower and not nearly as angry as anything else. Good thing Chamber the Cartridge, Injection, and Bricks were on that album. Appeal is much faster than Sufferer. That's the truth. They are being criticized for staying the same even though everyone of their albums sounds different. If they changed to please everyone, you would criticize. This isn't their best, but I believe they are one album before making their masterpiece. Listen to it. Don't sit there when you surf the internet or watch TV. Listen. Just the music and you'll understand what they're doing.
c_rob2700
10/10/08, 03:23 PM
This album = all aboard the...
~~_~~_
___l_l__l_l________
\____Fail Boat____/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
eleven eleven
10/10/08, 04:18 PM
This album = all aboard the...
~~_~~_
___l_l__l_l________
\____Fail Boat____/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
you = all aboard the...
~~_~~_
___l_l__l_l__________________
\____shutthefuckup Boat____/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I will confess I do give everything a chance and probably like more than I should, however, I feel a low B is the right grade for this album -- not bad, not great, but better than being pure shit. It's cool though, dude, you have your right to say that considering that yes, it can be a sad musical world we live in, flooded with lack of creativity rather than art.
I find myself agreeing. Rise Against is rather anti-progressive musically speaking, but they still pack a lyrical jab.
c_rob2700
10/10/08, 07:10 PM
you = all aboard the...
~~_~~_
___l_l__l_l__________________
\____shutthefuckup Boat____/
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
fail.
eleven eleven
10/10/08, 07:31 PM
fail.
no you fail because your MEAN
and everyone knows mean people fail.
c_rob2700
10/10/08, 07:41 PM
no you fail because your MEAN
and everyone knows mean people fail.
and your mother failed on getting an abortion, that's why you're here.
eleven eleven
10/10/08, 07:51 PM
and your mother failed on getting an abortion, that's why you're here.
haha
What?
Ah, i see, it was a joke. But, actually, i was a planned child. And my mother never really attempted to get an abortion, so she couldn't have failed.
Anyway, I disagree with your opinion on this album, so lets leave it at that.
Sorry for putting you on the shutthefuckup boat, I know its a bad place to be.
c_rob2700
10/10/08, 07:58 PM
haha
What?
Ah, i see, it was a joke. But, actually, i was a planned child. And my mother never really attempted to get an abortion, so she couldn't have failed.
Anyway, I disagree with your opinion on this album, so lets leave it at that.
Sorry for putting you on the shutthefuckup boat, I know its a bad place to be.
I've had that abortion joke set up.
I don't really dispise this album, i just wanted to try out my Fail Boat
YouthMovement
10/10/08, 08:48 PM
I think that everyone is being way too cruel. From reading everything, I've gathered this:
Everyone loves RPM
Mixed on Siren Song
Most people seem to love Sufferer
I don't get it. Yes, RPM is amazing. It's actually better than that. It's beyond words. Siren Song is criticized for being to radio friendly. Okay... ridiculous. State of the Union anyone? I don't get the love for Sufferer. I love RA. They are my favorite band ever. I have the heartfist on my car. They do no wrong to me. But Sufferer? I believe it to be their weakest. Songs like The Good Left Undone, Behind Close Doors, Under the Knife, all run together. Sufferer was slower and not nearly as angry as anything else. Good thing Chamber the Cartridge, Injection, and Bricks were on that album. Appeal is much faster than Sufferer. That's the truth. They are being criticized for staying the same even though everyone of their albums sounds different. If they changed to please everyone, you would criticize. This isn't their best, but I believe they are one album before making their masterpiece. Listen to it. Don't sit there when you surf the internet or watch TV. Listen. Just the music and you'll understand what they're doing.
i commend you for having a credible first post.
as well as one i agree with.
favorme05
10/15/08, 12:13 PM
I only listened to this record once for the moment, but I was a little disappointed. Where has all their rage gone? It's not angry enough, it's too soft!
Def. give this album more than one listen. I am a huge Rise fan and wasn't as pleased with it as I thought I was going to be when I first listened to it. As I gave it a few more spins, I realized it wasn't so much about the anger in the music, which I also felt was missing, but the feeling and meaning in the lyrics. They are really powerful - listen closely. I think this is an excellent album by Rise Against, really showing their versatility.
misterchainsaw
10/19/08, 12:23 AM
A fairly decent album, in my opinion. Nothing earth-shatteringly great, and not a huge departure from Sufferer. It feels a little safe and doesn't have the bite of RPM, or even Siren Song. Good review.
PS- Where is Matt Skiba in Hairline Fracture? It doesn't sound like the backing vocals are his, and didn't see him credited in the album booklet.
Chris Fallon
10/19/08, 02:30 AM
PS- Where is Matt Skiba in Hairline Fracture? It doesn't sound like the backing vocals are his, and didn't see him credited in the album booklet.
He has a fairly prominent presence on the song -- you can hear him backing Tim most of the song, particularly on the chorus.
fran.182
10/25/08, 12:22 PM
it's so damn good
The only song I REALLY liked from this release was "Savior".
"Kotov Syndrome" and "Reeducation Through Labor" weren't so bad either.
Now that I think about it, the thing that really gnawed at me was that it sounded as if Tim was bored. The only track where he really seems intent on translating emotion is Hero of War.
Danii_01
07/05/09, 09:55 PM
I'd have to say this is by far my favourite album by Rise Against. It's pure awesomeness. =D
Thomas Nassiff
07/13/09, 01:16 PM
I'd have to say this is by far my favourite album by Rise Against. It's pure awesomeness. =D
this album is better than the sufferer and the witness? have you even heard sufferer from beginning to end? its incredible.
Snuckles
08/02/09, 02:19 AM
Of all of their albums, this one seems to have the MOST emotion with songs like "from heads unworthy" and "hero of war". Several memorable songs aswell like "re-education through labor" and "audience of one". I think the lyrics are very clever and paint very good pictures of emotion and show the problems of the world very well. Espacially "from heads unworthy" the pre-chorus to be specific. In my opinion it's by far one of my favorite albums. Yeah it's not very hard or thrashy but look past that and you will see the beauty in the songs. Not just the whiplash.
eleven eleven
08/02/09, 08:33 AM
Their worst album. Still good though.
dhelmick
08/06/09, 11:37 PM
i really enjoy pretty much every song on this album. i dont think there is as much punk/hardcore as previous albums but it is still pretty awesome. Rise Against is awesome!!
mattjames1909
04/17/10, 06:07 PM
This band is getting better with each album. This has their best songwriting, and musicianship. Though, I guess if you are an angry teenager, you won't hear what I'm hearing. Such a pity.
NogginDew
09/19/10, 03:39 PM
I got the album, listened to it through a couple times, and was bored. It was a step for them in showing that the singer can really belt it and has a good voice, and the lyrics were intriguing and definitely up to par, but the music is just so... Boring. I mean, I can understand that bands need to evolve, and most of the time I'm all for it, but Rise Against is one of those bands that I would've been happier if they didn't.
I'm hoping their next album hits a little bit harder and runs a bit faster.
vBulletin v3.6.0, Copyright ©2000-2012, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.