Staying true to their sound Rise Against has released their sixth studio album “Endgame” on March 15, 2011! When it comes to delivering honest social and political commentary, Rise Against does just that and offers an explosive twelve-song album with a “fight for the fire of truth” message. Rise Againt’s album presents a bleak view on the modern world at a time when it is sadly appropriate – between the chaos in the Middle East and the horrific earthquake/tsunami in Japan. “We’re living under this black cloud of doom. Everything’s spiraling out of control… the record is all about that” said frontman Tim McIlwrath. While that may sound very pessimistic to some, Rise Against delivers the best of what punk rock music is all about: questioning authority and attempting to unnerve the ruling class. The album who was produced by Bill Stevenson and Jason Livermore – also responsible for the band’s last three of five albums – continues Rise Against’s trend of energetic, anthemic punk.
An album that steers clear of relationship or love talk (which I personally find very refreshing) Endgame keeps the conversation heavy while delivering 12 tracks that bring out the best in McIlarth’s infectious voice. The opening track “Architects” reels you right in from the start with the fast-paced tempo and upbeat vocals. The beat slows down once the chorus takes hold and McIlarth sings, “Do you still believe in all the things that you stood by before? Are you up there on the frontlines? or at home keeping score? And do you care to be the layer of the bricks that seal your fate? Or would you rather be the architect of what we might create?” Another track worth mentioning, also known as the first single off the album is “Help is On the Way”, a song which suggests that Katrina (the devastating hurricane that struck New Orleans in 2005) might be the tip of the iceberg to the onrushing apocalypse. Among its varied musical transitions it also features one of the few moments where McIlrath veers into screamo territory.
Another track off the album worth paying attention to is my personal favourite “Make It Stop (September’s Children)” a song that pays homage to the homosexual teenagers who committed suicide after being bullied. At the end of the song McIlrath reads off their names. It is truly impressive for a rock band to address issues such as this in such an honorable and compassionate way. In “Survivors Guilt” McIlrath gives us an unsettling remind that all great societies have met an unfortunate end as it gives way to a dead soldier questioning motives on anti-war. “And I fought with courage to preserve / Not my way of life, but yours.”
The album makes for a thoughtful shot of adrenaline and seems to revolve around that key vibrant energy and steady, sharp strumming from guitarist Zach Blair (Endgame marks his second Rise Against record). “Broken Mirrors” and “Midnight Hands” are standouts in terms of guitar work as powerful rifts are hammered out.
Rise Against has been a favourite of mine since hearing (and loving) their 2008 album “Appeal to Reason.” The band has come a long way since their first album yet remains true to their fans and their sound. “Endgame” is an album that I thoroughly enjoy not only for its thought provoking lyrics, or its powerful guitar work, but for the fact that this is about as good as it gets! Pick up a copy of “Endgame” today and support rock royalty!
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