Appeal To Reason Review

Released: Oct 7, 2008
Genre: Melodic Hardcore
Label: Geffen
Number Of Tracks: 13
The album is the band's third release on a major label, and also their first release with current guitarist Zach Blair.

Sound:	8
Lyrics:	9
Impression:	8.4
Overall rating:	8.5
Users rating:	9
Comments:	69

overall: 9

Featured review by: jetfuel495, on october 28, 2008

Sound: Rise Against is back with a new record, and while it's not as heavy as any of their previous efforts, it's definitely what you can expect from them. The punk influence has decreased over the years, but their music has become increasingly melodic. Every track (save the acoustic one) just makes you want to move. There isn't really any new musical innovations but you can definitely tell the difference between this record and previous ones due to the addition of new guitarist Zach Blair. I was a bit reluctant to see Chris go, but I think I'll live. There is this undeniable quality somewhere in this bands music that is always there, and despite the fact that some people say that Rise Against has changed, I think they still got it. They can still crank out the melodic anthems that they have been cranking out for years. // 8

Lyrics and Singing: Tim has always been one of my favorite lyricists, and for good reason. He writes some damn good songs. Lyrical themes are typical for a Rise Against album, with topics ranging from love to politics to just finding yourself. Overall though, this album sounds a bit more depressing than anything they've put out before. Tracks like "Hero Of War", "Hairline Fracture", and "Audience of One" can sound pretty down at times. But it's a good thing, because these are the kinds of songs that people can relate to, and that's the kind of music we need these days. And it's the kind of music that these guys always put out.

This next part goes without saying, but for reviewing purposes I'll say it anyway: Tim is an AMAZING vocalist. Even though there isn't too much screaming on this record, every track is something that you can sing along to.

The only downside is, like I mentioned, not as much screaming on this record. But that can be a good thing if you don't typically enjoy it. Also, some places the lyrics seem kind of thin, like in the first track when you hear the lyrics for the entire first verse and take it apart, you think "what exactly is he talking about?" I still have to give it a ten though, because Tim's lyrics + his voice = amazing. // 10

Impression: It's a little disappointing to see the bands sound tone down this much, but the core sound that they sculpted out on Revolutions per Minute is still there. It's not as heavy, but the key elements that made this band so amazing are still there. Songs that you MUST check out include (but are not limited to): Collapse, Re-education, Audience of One, and Savior. But really, take the time out to listen to all of the songs. While it isn't as heavy as any other Rise Against record, it's one of the only CDs I can listen through without skipping a single track. But please, on the next record, more screams, k? And yeah, if it were stolen/lost, I would buy it again. Twice. // 9

overall: 10

Reviewed by: nick_b, on february 09, 2009

Sound: I picked up this album on the strength of hearing three songs off it: Entertainment, Audience of One and, of course, Reeducation (Through Labor). I don't usually buy albums for reasons such as liking one or two songs, but I was glad that I bought this album after hearing the first track, Collapse (Post Amerika). this opening song set the scene for the remainder of the album, which is fast, relentless and classic Rise Against. Tim screams much less than in previous albums, and his tone of voice has changed slightly. this makes their songs sound much more mature, and gives their songs more character. when he screams, he has absolute control and is, in my opinion, one of the great rock vocalists of our generation. This album is a political and social statement that any fan of old Rise Against, or Billy Talent will love // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Tim's lyrics, as everyone has pointed out, are absolutely phenomenal. from the hollywood bashing of "entertainment" to the heavy hearted war ballad "hero of war", his lyrics are near-perfect. at times, they are shallow, but his voice makes up for any niggling issues with the poetry of his work, because he's just so motherf**king good // 10

Impression: This album is very similar in execution to 'the sufferer and the witness', but the slight change in the voice and guitar tones make it sound a lot more mature than their previous works. my favourite album of theirs by a mile. My favourite songs on it are 'entertainment' 'savior' and 'hero of war', all of which are masterpieces of songwriting. If it were stolen, I'd make the person who stole it give it back, and buy another three copies. And then one for every room in my house. and then one to listen to in the car. Go and buy a copy now! // 10

overall: 9.3

Reviewed by: RageFan1900, on october 28, 2008

Sound: The latest release by Rise Against is a big winner in my book. Although this is another step away from their original fast-paced, aggressive sound that was The Unraveling, it still is a musical powerhouse. When I first listened to it, I was surprised to say the least. The sound is more mainstream and mellow than old-school Rise Against. However, they sure as hell can write music. Even though the sound has been taken down some notches in terms of pure energy and speed (the drums aren't as break-neck fast as they used to be), quite possibly to appeal to more people, the band's liberal messages stay the same. The first track "Collapse (Post-Amerika)" is the pure Rise Against sound that is most reminiscent of Siren Song and Sufferer and the Witness. There's one song named "The Dirt Whispered," which to me was the most unusual thing to hear Rise Against play. The song, to me at least, sounded like Blink-182 grown up. Tim sings a lot better than Mark and Tom, especially Tom. Tim's voice is most impressive on "Kotov Syndrome" and "The Strength to Go On." My three favorite tracks on this album come in a row, with "Entertainment,"(the circus 'bum-DUN-DUN, bum-DUN-DUN' was a stroke of genius) "Hero of War,"(showcases McIlrath's ability to shove the song concept in your face lyrically, because he doesn't beat around the bush) and my favortie track on the whole album, and one of my new favorite Risa Against songs, "Savior." "Savior" to me is a perfect song, that captures the sound of the new album perfectly. If you are wondering if you should get this album or not, listen to "Savior" on YouTube or something, and make your decision from there. I don't think you'll be disappointed with that song. I'm giving this category a 9 because I would give Siren Song a 10, and I personally believe that's their best album to date. This is a damn good album. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: Tim McIlrath's lyrics are always great. He has a way with words that in several songs today cannot be matched. He can make a song so poetic it's make your head spin, while writing a song with a message so straightforward that it just punches you in the face. "Hero of War" is a great example of his lyrical ability. Even though it's a simple story, the emotion that it brings out is rarely found in other music today. "Entertainment" is practically a bitch-slap to Hollywood. Also, Tim's voice is one of the best I've ever heard. He has a very unique voice that fits the music perfectly, to the point that if he left, there would be no more Rise Against. Even if they got a new singer, it wouldn't be the same. Unless they do what Journey did and find some guy who actually sounds just like him, but what are the odds for that happening to another band? // 10

Impression: I believe that this is Rise Against's 2nd best album. It's tied right now with Sufferer and the Witness. The main thing to take away from this review is that the sound on this album is slightly more alternative than previous, and there are more 'slower' songs, in the sense of the drums. This album still has a lot of energy behind it, just not the "bounce off the walls" energy that was on the first two albums, and on a few songs from Siren Song. I love how Tim's voice seems to have gotten stronger as time has gone on, and the new guitarist fits the bill for Rise Against. The one thing that I don't like about the album is it shows the decline of power and energy from album to album. I don't think they'll ever become a pop-punk band, but I can see in a few more years where their sound has completely departed from The Unraveling. If it were stolen, and my hard drive was wiped, hell yeah I would buy this agsin. The album was a great listen from start to finish, and I recommend it for the hardcore fans of the band, and also those who just heard "Re-Education (Through Labor)" to pick it up. // 9

overall: 9.3

Reviewed by: Lemurs4mangos, on february 10, 2009

Sound: The sound of the album seems to be pretty good. Sometimes I feel like the distortion "fuzz" over fills a bit, but I guess it adds to the overall impression on the songs. It seems like the album is based around war, poverty, the world crashing. Then kind of apacolypse that everyone keeps talking about that we're digging ourselves into. But there is light such as in "Long Forgotten Sons" talking about how there are still people out there that can help and want to help, but soceity is too busy mourning themselves to care. They artists seemed to improve the bass line on the album. But as stated before in a pervious review, not as much screaming. I don't know if you're one that doesn't like the screaming, but I know I do. And yeah personally I miss it a bit, but the songs still came out great. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics I beleive are amazing. The song "From Heads Unworthy" starts out with (after the first few lines) "Love Lost, Like a Bullets Path, Tear through the cavity of my chest, Lights out, Because the fuse has blown" to me those are a great couple of lines. it's not completely straight forward, but it's still got all the hints to the message the song has. Good lyrics shouldn't be straight forward, but not so far out that no one can figure out what they mean. Tim's singing skillz are great, would like a bit more screaming, but listening to some of the songs, I don't know exactly where you could fit it in really... // 10

Impression: My personal favorite album right now is this one, but recent albums I've liked such as "Death Magnetic" which people often disagree on, I believe this album stacks up quite well to that. I also liked "Scream, Aim, Fire" and this album is great, but still I believe that "Appeal to Reason" beat it out. My Favorite songs from the album are "Collapse", "Re-Education (Through Labor)", "From Heads Unworthy", "Kotov Syndrome", and "The Dirt Whispered". It seems like most of the album and it is. I love how all the songs have a message behind them and I've been obsessed with this album for the past few weeks. The guitar has it's own little riffs, and personally I've gone through each song and listened to each part, and I pick up everything now, and it's all pieced together very well. If it were lost/stolen I'd replace it as many times as needed. (but I'd also be smart and upload them on to my iPod *evil laugh*) Yeah amazing album, great lyrics, needs more screaming! // 9

overall: 4

Reviewed by: voicesoffcamera, on april 07, 2009

Sound: I had high hopes for this record before the release, Re-Education and Collapse both being amazing tracks. Then when the actual album came out I was at a loss for words. I have absolutely loved all of Rise Against's music. Every single one of their songs has been one of my favourites at one time or another. I don't know how they changed so much, whether it was new guitarist Zach Blair or just the constant pressure to write more "mainstream" songs, but this album flat out sucks. I hate to say it but the music sounds like it could be Nickelback or Hinder if they got slightly heavier.

Their gritty punk yet still melodic sound is what made me fall in love with them. This CD gets rid of the punk sound and replaces it with a generic mainstream rock sound, with riffs so plain and simple they could have been written by Angus Young. Their riffs used to be aggressive, fast and complex. I can barely even listen to any of the songs besides the two I've already mentioned. // 3

Lyrics and Singing: I have to admit Tim's still got it. His voice is pure godliness, he executes every note with power and perfection. I can't get enough of his voice but thankfully I can get my fix from all of the previous albums. As others have mentioned there is an absence of screaming in these songs which I find to be a bad idea for Rise Against and further proof they're starting to play for the money. The seamless transition from beautiful melodies to screaming was one of the reasons Rise Against was so different from other recent punk bands who've tried to do the same.

His lyrics have always been powerful, deep and thought-provoking and I found a serious lack of that on Appeal to Reason. It seems like he's trying too hard now instead of just letting his personal beliefs and thoughts flow into his lyrics. Some of the lyrics he's written this time around barely make any sense, trying so hard to be deep that the metaphors are lost. // 5

Impression: I can see how it appeals to new fans but I can't see how anybody who's loved their previous efforts could truly like this, unless they already loved mainstream rock music as well. I tried getting into the album. I tried to like it because I love Rise Against, they're my (ex) favourite band. I owed it to them but unfortunately this album just bombed. My overall impression? I hope this album's a joke. // 4

overall: 10

Reviewed by: roobaad, on november 17, 2009

Sound: The Sound of the album "Appeal to Reason" by Rise Against, is a very defined sound with clear structure in the whole Ablum. It's a very powerful Sound, and every chord and line seems to be thought through and trough. For me this is Music at the highest level. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: The Lyrics in this Album are interesting and thoughtful, I think, the Band is really standing behind every song, and there's no doubt, that the music does fit to the lyrics in every way.

That the Singer has pretty good skills is nothing I would doubt in any way. So I think the Lyrics are a very important part of this album and they're very good. // 10

Impression: A really great album, which follows the line of the albums before, but it's not just the same again, it's better, and it's absolut one of my favourite albums at all. One of the most impressive songs from the album is "hero of war" which is about an american guy, who becomes a soldier, and is proud of his nation, until is has to kill someone who's innocent. this person carried a Flag a "flag white as snow" which he brings home and which is the only flag he likes in the end.

I love about the Album nearly everything, it's just great music, and it's very impressive to listen to it. If it were stolen, I would definetly buy it again. so my Overall Impression is that this album is just great. But that's only my Opinion ;) // 10

overall: 10

Reviewed by: Guitarfreak147, on april 07, 2009

Sound: The sound of this band is extrodinary. They really make the music sound hard in certain parts, but really, it's a bunch of simple power chords and palm mutes. I also prefer you to buy this CD because of it's unique way of it's sound. When you listen to it, there are different sounds on each speaker or headset earplug. If you love this sound as much as I do, then you'll know every part of the song and sing along. Listen to each song 20 times and I promise you you'll remember it. The sound of the band is what makes it one of the famous bands now. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: The Lyrics in this song kick butt. Tim Mcilrath has some singing skills as well. He is the perfect singer for the band and makes the guys jealous and the gals love him. I know no one else could fill his spot. In some of his songs, he gives a message hidden inside the lyrics that are about the world or the environment. Some are sad, some relaxing, some just downright awesome. They also combine with the music so clearly, you just sit and listen to it for hours. (So please do so) // 10

Impression: If you think you can get a better album, well guess what? You can't! This is the best album you'll get your hands on. Don't lose this album. God is watching and he will come and get you if you do. So buy this album a million times if you have to, just have a copy on hand at all times, even if it's on your MP3. If you just want to buy songs, (because it's cheaper) think about purchasing these songs: Re-Education (Through Labor), Audience Of One, Savior, and Hero Of War. Some things I love about the album is that all songs are different. None of them sound the same in many ways at all; they are unique in their own way. One thing I do dislike about this album though, is that when you listen with your friends with an MP3 (One earplug per person) is that the song has different parts. Sometimes, you'll only hear bass, vocals, or even nothing. So be careful with your MP3 if your friends listen with you. // 10

overall: 10

Reviewed by: Cdynckl, on july 24, 2009

Sound: This album is amazing. Ok, that aside, this album is less hardcore, not much, but a little. There are a lot less screams than past albums, some may like it, I kinda miss it. Their songs are all great, I can just listen to this album over and over, and I always want to listen to their songs twice or three times in a row. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics are very deep. Tim has always written great, deep lyrics. He goes from Hero of War, a song about a young man and his experience with war, to Entertainment, a song bashing the whole entertainment industry, to Long Forgotten Sons, a song about the people who are still there trying to make things better.

As always with Tim, expect awesomeness with the vocals. This guy can sing amazingly. He has a great voice, never can get tired of him. He also can scream like no other. I went to a concert of theirs and when he was screaming, it looked like it to no more effort than talking. Amazing. // 10

Impression: This is probably one of my favorite albums. I actually would call this my second favorite. Siren Song of the Counter Culture would have to be first. If this CD was stolen. I'd hunt down whoever stole it from me! Then buy them a copy. This CD is good enough to share. // 10

overall: 7.3

Reviewed by: jonnowev, on february 10, 2009

Sound: It's just another Rise Against album. They've made a subtle progression in their sound through the years, and if you're heard earlier stuff you'll know what to expect. Upbeat, punky riffs, catchy vocal work and plenty of emotion. If anything I'd have liked a bit more variety. This is more of a stright-up melodic hardcore record than their last one, which drifted into darker, slower territory at times. The album high point for me (and for many people I except) is the acoustic track Hero of War. Production values are tip-top. In fact a bit too squeaky clean for my liking. // 8

Lyrics and Singing: Tim has always been good at painting a picture in your mind, but at times on this album he goes a bit OTT on the environmental stuff. He still pulls it off well enough, but I miss the days when he could write a great hardcore punk tune without sounding like a whining hippie, that's all I'm saying... // 7

Impression: More of a backtrack into their comfort zone than their fairly wide-ranging Sufferer and the Witness. For fans of course it's the usual wet dream of catchy punk, but take a step back and you'll realise that it's just a solid album rather than a true classic. And the little slip trying to persuade you to become a vegetarian that comes with the album is pathetic. Stop preaching and just keep making good music guys! // 7

overall: 4.3

Reviewed by: DeathBlossoms, on july 08, 2009

Sound: Rise Against has been familiar throughout the underground for almost ten years. However, like most bands do at some point, they made a tentative push towards mainstream by moving away from the core sound they established in their early work (Revolutions Per Minute) and tried something new. This could go two ways; it could either be a huge success or huge blow to the band. In this case, it's hard to even compare their new album to their early work. The band softened their sound to a point where it doesn't even sound like there is any punk influence involved at all. Earlier songs such as "Blood Red White and Blue", "State Of The Union", "Voices Off Camera", and "Ready To Fall" could really get you moving. I find it hard to listen to anything on Appeal to Reason and want to jump around. The overall sound doesn't have the right feeling to make you want to go crazy and start a circle pit. It's all too mealodic and not the Rise Against style at all. // 2

Lyrics and Singing: Lets face it, Tim McIlrath is an amazing lyricist and vocalist. That can never change no matter how the overall music sounds. Every song Rise Against has written has had some special feeling behind it that anyone could relate to. Basically, there's a Rise Against song out there for everybody. The one thing I loved about Rise Against album was that there was always one song on every album that could listen to all the way through and think to myself, "Damn." then go back and listen to it again with the same reaction. Those songs are "Everchanging" from The Unraveling, "Halfway There" from Revolutions Per Minute, "Dancing For Rain" on Siren Song Of The Counter Culture, and "Survive" from Sufferer And The Witness. The one thing I noticed about Appeal To Reason was that it seemed like they tried to pour their hearts out into every single song. It all just sounds too depressing, songs like "Hero Of War" and "From Heads Unworthy" are all downers. It also seemed like some lines just didn't fit with the rest of the song or they were just plain corny. For instance, one line from "Audience Of One" is; "We're all okay, until the day we're not." I can't stand that line. It sounds so corny and out of place. Despite the slow and mealodic music put to the lyrics and few out of place lines, the lyrics on this CD are very well writtin, which has come to be expected from the band.

Needless to say, Tim is an amazing vocalist. He's always been one of my favorite lyricsist and vocalists because of the sheer power he puts into both. However, his voice used to be very raw and was a huge part of the entire Rise Against sound. His voiced softened along with the rest of the music and is too smooth. Most of my favorite Rise Against songs involve Tim's unique screaming. In my own oppinion, Tim should have used that ability to his advantage. // 7

Impression: Appeal To Reason is hard to compare to any of the bands previous albums. Any long term Rise Against fan could tell you that. One thing that bothers me is whenever I ask the question "Do you know the band Rise Against?" I get the same answer every time; "Yeah! They did Re-education!" Its obvious that this new album has caught the attention of new fans. You can't even turn on the radio without hearing "Audience Of One" anymore. I guess its possible to listen to this album if you're feeling sad or depressed, but it's not something I would listen to for the hell of it. The only thing about this album that I like is that Tim can still put out amazing lyrics after ten years of writing. However, if you're a long time fan of the band, I wouldn't recommend this album to you. // 4

overall: 9.7

Reviewed by: cooper665, on november 10, 2008

Sound: Rise agains have managed to change there style of music completely since the sufferer and the witness. The weird thing thing is, when bands usually do this they end up sounding bad. This is different. the whole music sounds calmer, less crazy. that's pretty bad comparing it to there older stuff, but somwhow it works. when I first listened to it I found it hard to belive it was still them, but I like it. the slighly more complex guitar riffs formed by the new guitarist zach blair gives it a bit more of a clearer(and slightly more agressive)kick out of it. it's nice to have calmer music once in a while, this really does it. I suprised myself actually liking this new sound with pretty much every song sounding brilliant. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: Tim Mcilrath has to be the best lyric writer ever. his sensible but politicly dangerous lyrics are just great. he doesnt't just do all the crappy love stuff. he writes all about the real problems, global warming, war etc. listening to him is indescribable. from his old rough screaming voice everyone loves to his normal singing voice everyone loves song after song. It doesnt't mean they've stopped the screamo stuff. the last track brings it back into play with an immense passage. lso he commits himself wholeheartedly to the lyrics music and vocals. he took a risk lowing down but it is just as awesome. // 10

Impression: changing genre for this album was never going to be easy. there's always gonna be "fans" who now dislike them becaus of the change. I don't care. I think it just shows how one reasonably popular band can change and how talented these guys really are. I think it's all just brilliant punk this album. the guide for writing a reveiw says name songs that are good from the album. I got a better idea. just freakin buy it. buy it because it is just different. // 10

Comments

[eoiniscool]

it took a few days of me thinkin it was too similar to Sufferer and the Witness but eventually got into it, love it now. the lyrics are the high point. excellent album.

[matty_jay]

Am a huge fan, but after 5 or so listens this album still hasnt clicked with me. And it bothers me how often Tim uses the word 'we' in his lyrics. It seems he start every sentence with 'we'.

[Agony098]

My favorite rock band, without question. You can just feel the emotion so well in Tim's voice. It's so easy to see that this is music made from the heart, that's something they've been consistent with their whole career.

I saw them a week ago for the second time...there is no concert as intense and energetic as a Rise Against concert. I also met Tim after the show, really cool guy. He's really grateful of his fans.

Btw, nice reviews.

[Kolanski]

When i first heard it I thought it sounded too processed and cookie cutter. But once i started listening to it more it is an amazing album. Deep lyrics combined with multiple guitar layers and killer vocals. Great album

[Gollum15]

I LOVE this band,I can't wait for then to become a super popular band and I pre-ordered this album and I love it all!!!

[GiveItAll]

bah i liked sufferer but EVERYONE who knows music should know his was a step backwards. I mean i don't hold anything against them for taking screaming away, as thats the direction they wanted to go, but they still should, most importantly, MAKE GOOD MUSIC, some of their worst songs EVER came from this album, and there were only handful of good ones though there were several ok ones. One HORRIBLE song was audience of one

[GiveItAll]

and at the 2nd reviewer, this album actually took much from The Unraveling, the "southern" sound was first introduced in it, and The Dirt Whispered would fit perfectly in it. This is basically the refined version of the light sides of Unraveling (and face it, there was a lot, this was my favorite album it though as it had the most instrumentation... Appeal to Reason less so)

[Aakepaake]

Good record!

[Aakepaake]

Agony098 wrote:

My favorite rock band, without question. You can just feel the emotion so well in Tim's voice. It's so easy to see that this is music made from the heart, that's something they've been consistent with their whole career.

I saw them a week ago for the second time...there is no concert as intense and energetic as a Rise Against concert. I also met Tim after the show, really cool guy. He's really grateful of his fans.

Btw, nice reviews.

WOW. My biggest dream is to see Sum 41's show and after that is to see Rise Against's show. But never seen =/

[Bamitchell]

I don't think this album is quite as good as their past albums, mainly "The Siren Song Of The Counter Culture". It's not bad, but none of the tracks, save Hero Of war, The Dirt whispered and maybe one other, are typical Rise Against, which isn't bad, just I like too be able to see the changes in a band from one album to the next.

[cosmic_fool3791]

Also, some places the lyrics seem kind of thin, like in the first track when you hear the lyrics for the entire first verse and take it apart, you think "what exactly is he talking about?"

I don't claim to know too much about lyrics, but what I took the first verse to be talking about was the current state of the world (global warming, war in Iraq, etc.), especially given the chorus lyrics that follow. Yeah, it's a cliche interpretation, but then again, Rise Against seem to sing about this sort of thing a lot. Maybe it's not what Tim wanted to say, but I don't think the lyrics were thin if people can come up with some interpretation. =)

[diaspora]

Great album, it took a couple of listens for me to get into it but now, its amazing, i love it.
Lyrics are what you would expect from Tim but man, he just does it so well.
Although, i do miss Chris a bit, his simple guitar solos did break up a few tracks on siren song and the sufferer and the witness, they just added a little more depth to some tracks but other than that its true rise against.

[mibe]

i can't believe how people are so much into this album... i think it's mindbuggingly average. =S

It's a little disappointing to see the bands sound tone down this much

is what comes to mind.
and i hate the parts where they quote themselves, being "Kotov Syndrome" (opening sounds exactly like "The First Drop") and "Savior" (stealing a solo part from "Prayer of the Refugee").
actually, what i'm saying is, i don't like the new guitarist. when i'm listening to the new record, i can't stop thinking of the fact that they've run out of fresh ideas. disappointing.

if it wasn't for "Hero of War", i would have lost faith in this band. ;

[Farether]

I really like this album, when I first got it,
I was like, okay, nice album to listen too when your at home with a couple of friends, but the longer I have it, and the more I listen to it, I really, really start to like it.

[jon93971]

Awesome band!!!
Again, like most people have said, it took me a few listens to really get into it.
But now that I have gotten into it,
Damn it's an amazing album!!
Sufferer and the Witness though has to be the best although that was the album that got me into them so I have a bit of a soft spot for that
Can't wait 'till the next album

[Powerchild]

I think this album is awesome. They are possibly one of the few bands today that can still deliver something good and catchy on a consistent basis. I know that it isn't as diverse as I think they could get, but they do change it up with tracks like "hero of war." I think it's pretty good.

[js35]

Aakepaake wrote:



WOW. My biggest dream is to see Sum 41's show and after that is to see Rise Against's show. But never seen =/

Sum 41 is probably the best show i've seen EVER, and i've been to 3 warped tours and several smaller shows the last 5 years

[NemX162]

I love this band, but really this album is horrible. Siren songs was the best, Sufferer was very nice as well. This one is just very bland... It's a real let down for me.

Maybe I'll like it more later. I used to feel the same way about Sufferer and the Witness...

[0h The Horror]

Great review. Amazing album. That's just stupid ^^

[-Blue-]

Hold up... "Melodic Hardcore"? What?

I think this album is great, btw. Just wanted to point out that the genre's way off.

[FarFromDead]

Melodic Hardcore? I think not. Good Album, not their best.

[JessicaGonzo]

FarFromDead wrote:

Melodic Hardcore? I think not. Good Album, not their best.

Ha i thought the same when i read that.... im thinking more along the lines of punk.

[Megalomaniac46]

Melodic Hardcore??? isn't that an oxymoron??

[Savage Animal]

Ugh Rise Against

[Ironpriest]

Sum 41 is probably the best show i've seen EVER, and i've been to 3 warped tours and several smaller shows the last 5 years

Go and check out iron maiden my friend, best live band ever!

I have siren song, sufferer and this one (all fantastic albums btw) Rise against are really the only punk band i care for too. what other albums by them are good?

[Captian Xero]

People liked Sufferer and the Witness? I think that is the 2nd weakest album Rise Against has ever put out, just barely beating The Unraveling. Huh, that's interesting.

[jetfuel495]

Captian Xero wrote:

People liked Sufferer and the Witness? I think that is the 2nd weakest album Rise Against has ever put out, just barely beating The Unraveling. Huh, that's interesting.

hey, the unraveling wasnt that bad. sure, it was a little too punk for my tastes in some places, but it had some pretty good songs, like everchanging, six ways till sunday, join the ranks, reception fades, and some others

[raisedbycoffee2]

YES!!! I f*****g love this album. Definatly my favorites are Long Forgotten Sons, Re-education, The Dirt whispered, The Strength to go On, Entertainment, Hero of War, and Savior.

[TheChaz]

Gollum15 wrote:

I LOVE this band,I can't wait for then to become a super popular band and I pre-ordered this album and I love it all!!!

Umm Rise Against is insanely popular. They are so popular it borders on mainstreamness. That being said they are still incredible

[Wicky_7]

this album is far to mediocre

[Morrie2995]

it's an okay album to e honest there ealier album were better mainly "the siren song of counter culture"
btw i love rise agains theyy are seriously the best band ever

[Irishpenguin]

i like the band, dont much like this album though.

[Adam_Harrison9]

I'm a massive Rise Against fan (I'm even planning a tattoo from their inspiration). But, this definitely isn't a 9. It lives nowhere near to the standards of RPM or Sufferer or Siren Song or Unraveling. The songs sounded too samey and the lack of screaming shows a lack in diversity as well. I love the lyrics always, I just thought the guitar work was lacking something. The songs are too bright and bouncy for my liking instead of the fast-paced verse riffs and catchy breakdowns. Clearly an even bigger step into the mainstream, than their other mainstream-accessible albums.

[buni_rabit]

looks to me rise against ahs a wide variaty of fans as some people love it others dont bt most just like it

[KaiNgeld]

Yeah, Rise Against are great but the new album just doesn't sound as authentic as the old ones especially siren song. I just hope they don't lose their roots completely, their music is just to unique to become mainstream. Eventhough this album doesn't thrill me as much as the old ones I'm gonna see them live again with the hope to hear some old songs as well. In my opinion one of the most energetic livebands...

[Fodderz]

Rise Against are my all time favourtie band and no matter what people say i think that this new album is awesome and althought it does sound slighty different to the older ones so what it is new and still awesome !!

[AnEvilWalrus]

I'd have to agree with all the people saying that this album was mediocre. Honestly I only found a few tracks off this album to be really, truly good. "Savior" is one of their best songs, in my opinion.
I'm not terribly into The Unraveling, too punk-ish for me, I think Siren Song was a decent album, got some amazing work on it. However, The Sufferer is their best album imo, there is not a track on that album that I would skip. Appeal To Reason just doesn't live up to it. It was disappointing.

[jman6340]

This album could of been a little heavyer, but awsome lyrics and still good sound. Not the best Rise Against album, but I still listen to it on long trips

[deadlights]

I think every single album they have ever made is phenomenal from start to finish. And as for Appeal to Reason, Zach Blair really stepped up to the plate. I can't get the album out of my head even to this day. And Rise Against's lyrics are some of the best I've heard.

[Knightmare444]

My friends brother works as stage crew for a local band that played during the same show as Rise Against, and we got back stage tickets, and I must say... It's very good to see that there are still rock bands out there with morale's and who can write meaningful lyrics that come from the heart without being called Emo.

Rise Against is by far the greatest rock band to date. Two thumbs up for another amazing album.

[NemX162]

These guys are one of my favorite bands, but this album just isn't that good. a 6.5 at best I'd say. The tracks are starting to sound generic again; something I thought Rise Against had broken away from. The lack of screaming is a bit disapointing, but not that important. I'm not too crazy about Zach's writing.

Am I the only one who thinks Hero of War isn't that good? Somebody not familiar with the band would think it's glorifying war. I myself was a bit confused when I listened to it. Just not a very strong song.

[Chinfrim]

The Musical Tone down don't make up for the excellent lyrics... Give me more screaming and more break-neck drums.

[punXander]

Amazing live! will always love them for putting on a great show... i must say though, this album succckked... i liked a few of the songs, but come on, Rev. per. Min. was AWESOME, The Unraveling, again awesome... siren song of the counter culture, GREAT, as well as the sufferer and the witness... but this one i just can't get into... not gonna lie either they put on a better show before the sufferer and the witness came out... but still they play great live... hoping for a better one the next time around

[kryptonite22]

the music is predictable, the lyrics are woolly and the production is too tidy.

i'll stick to revolutions per minute, thank you very much.

[3 days grace14]

Great band, Great album, hey what not's to like. It's not bas heavy as what i usually listen 2 but hell even i get sick of metal up your ass 24/7 :]

[GuitarPlayer716]

Here's the deal, I love Rise Against, they are an awesome band that puts on a phenomenal show. But this album was a giant peice of trash. If they go on tour around the Buffalo area again, I will still pay to see them, but I must reiterate that I was horribly disappointed by this album.

[Vedicardi]

So it's becoming more pop-y or what?

[classrock77]

its average. hero of war is the best one. everything else pretty much blends together, except a couple songs, but overall its not really worth buying, download certain songs would probably be the best choice if you want it anyways.

[theacousticpunk]

When I first heard about this album, I was really excited to hear it. Then I heard Re-education (Through Labor) and was disappointed to the point of avoiding the album. I was so mainstream sounding, so bland, so BORING. Then I heard the album. I hated it. It felt like I was listening to modern radio. All of the songs were like it. I loved Revolutions Per Minute, and Siren Song of the Counter Culture. The Sufferer and the Witness wasn't as good, but I still liked it. But this, this was just upsetting. As cliche as it sounds, they sound like they sold out, and joined the pop-punk, wanna-be humanitarian teenagers scene.

[guitarheroII]

My favorite Rise Against album. Flat out./

[fender456]

pretty good album

[guitaringnathan]

i would like this band more if they weren't so political. i know its who they are but lately its just hard for me to listen to politically charged lyrics (well except for machine head)because it just seems like a fad then actually trying to say something

[smartassorange]

this was good album, but probably my least liked by them. i feel as time goes on they kind of get softer. Suffer and the Witness was softer the Siren's..... and RPMs was a pretty badass album.

[Co&Ca11]

i think this is a pretty good album but it comes no where near the unraveling or revolutions per minute

[TheChaz]

NemX162 wrote:

Am I the only one who thinks Hero of War isn't that good? Somebody not familiar with the band would think it's glorifying war. I myself was a bit confused when I listened to it. Just not a very strong song.

Yes you are the only one who thinks that. That's the only song from this album that I even listen to anymore. As for the album, I really liked it when it came out, but now all the songs jsut seem too similar. It got old really fast because listening to the album was kind of like listening to the same song over and over again for me. But the lyrics were amazing as always.

[hendrixftw]

This album is awesome. Can't wait to see them. If you haven't listened to them then DO IT!!! It will blow your mind!

[pspmodder94]

Great band, not so great album. Lyrics were beyond amazing, but the overall sound of a good portion of the songs was just...bad. Not as heavy as before, which is a downer. But it still has some amazing songs and its definitely worth a listen.

[redsoxxplayer]

i'm reading the reviews and it sounds to me a lot like what A.F.I went through. They gradually decreased from punk (while still keeping some of course) and becoming more melodical. A.F.I.'s lyrics also got more serious and a little more dark, just like the reviews say this album is like.

[95@Roy]

this band is like my fav band and after reading these reviews they are like beasting yea the volcals are good the guitar is good the drums bass every thing is good thats wyh it sounds good keep up the good work RISE AGAINST!!!!!

[Jon777]

This is definitely their best album yet. Whoever gave the album a 4 should think again.

[voicesoffcamera]

This is FAR from their best album yet. I'm all for personal opinion but I don't see what anybody see's in this album. It is trash. Don't tell me to think again, I've already made up my mind, this is the worst album by far so go ahead and worship this musical s***.

[GiveItAll]

This album isn't as "fresh" (experimental, varied, out of the box) Siren Song of the Counter Culture and The Unraveling, but it harkens back to some of the Country-ish stuff in in the Unraveling and is a natural evolution from the nice power they've found in The Sufferer and the Witness. The vocals however have been dramatically toned down from Sufferer, which in itself was kindof toned down, but it was forgivable there because the songs were good and had the same rage in them that fueled their previous works.

In their new album, however, the songs themselves were made less aggressive and the songs themselves aren't that great either. I thought this album was really bland, and hey, I was one of the people that disliked screaming parts of the older Rise Against and only put up with them because they made a nice contrast with the melodic parts. In the middle of the album the songs begin to sound the same because the lack of thinking outside the box in this album, but lets ignore that for now:

In the songs themselves, there are musical phrases that feel incomplete and sometimes placed randomly (especially in bridges and prechoruses), and some of the melodies that RA wrote up aren't that great.

And there is also a glaring lack of evolution in their album from Sufferer, it builds on the melodic parts, power, and layering off of Sufferer and "westernize" it... but that's exactly what they did in the song "But tonight we dance" which is on the UK version of Sufferer (and thus they wrote it later probably), and basically has the SAME EXACT style as this album.

[Juankpjc]

savior is the best song

[Constapation6]

one of the best albums of our time as well as the best band ever!!

[Let It Be0o0]

Personally, I thought this album was 'OK' but I missed their heavier stuff from rev. per min and sufferer. Although I think I can speak for everyone when I say this, Hero Of War shows the potential this band has. Amazing song and no it doesn't glorify war listen to the end for crying out loud ._.

[Cdynckl]

Gollum15 wrote:

I LOVE this band,I can't wait for then to become a super popular band and I pre-ordered this album and I love it all!!!

Rise Against isn't meant to be a "super popular band" they are meant to be punk and hardcore and just get their point across.

[Sheogorath]

GiveItAll wrote:

bah i liked sufferer but EVERYONE who knows music should know his was a step backwards. I mean i don't hold anything against them for taking screaming away, as thats the direction they wanted to go, but they still should, most importantly, MAKE GOOD MUSIC, some of their worst songs EVER came from this album, and there were only handful of good ones though there were several ok ones. One HORRIBLE song was audience of one

You are a . . . *thinking of the right word* . . . idiot, yeah idiot would work

[voicesoffcamera]

Sheogorath wrote:

You are a . . . *thinking of the right word* . . . idiot, yeah idiot would work

Yes...he's an idiot because he has a different opinion than yours and can see this album is not nearly as well written as their older works...we should all now bow before your intellectual prowess.

[Roan_Minstrel]

Hav you guys seen the savior music video? Any one know what going on besides stuffed animal cruelty and destruction of instruments