HEAVY MUSIC HISTORY: Rise Against – Appeal To Reason
On October 7, RISE AGAINST unleashed their fifth studio album; Appeal To Reason onto the world, marking a pivotal moment for the Chicago punk troupe. Having garnered critical acclaim and an ever growing fanbase with their previous release; The Sufferer & The Witness (2006) which back then, was seen as the high point in the groups career. Because of this, expectations from critics and fans alike were soaring. By 2008, RISE AGAINST had firmly established themselves as one of the leading forces in the punk scene. Armed with politically charged lyrics, powerful melodies and relentless energy, they were very much (and still are) a band you’d want in your corner. They weren’t afraid to bite back if needed and would always wear their heart on their sleeve.
Upon release, the record was met with a wave of generally positive reviews amongst critics. The album’s sound showcased RISE AGAINST’s signature melodic punk rock mixed with socially conscious lyrics, which would further cement their status as a band that came with a powerful message. On top of the positive reception for Appeal To Reason, it had a notable impact on the charts, both in the UK and US. The UK saw the record chart at No. 60, a significant improvement over their previous releases. It was in the United States however that it achieved even greater success by debuting at No. 3 in the official Billboard 200 Charts. At the time it was a career best for the band, reflective of their growing popularity and anticipation that came with the release of the record.
The record itself is bolstered by a powerful vocal performance from frontman Tim McIlrath. His raw and emotive vocals continued to be a defining element of the band’s sound. His gravelly voice conveys the passion and intensity of the lyrics superbly from start to finish whether it be his own personal issues at the time or the political landscape of what was happening in America at the time of its release.
However, it isn’t just McIlrath that shines throughout the record. The rest of the band all get their moment in the sun, contributing to the album’s success. Collectively, the band’s cohesion and high-level musicianship are marked by a tight knit level of musical synergy, allowing them to seamlessly transition between moments of raw aggression but also melodic introspection without abandoning their punk rock roots. Bassist Joe Principe and drummer Brandon Barnes’ thunderous rhythm section, in combination with McIlrath’s vocals and frantic guitar playing, coalesce into the RISE AGAINST package we’ve been able to resonate with over the years, so much so that it’s easy to overlook the fact that this was lead guitarist Zach Blair’s first record with the band. Despite this, his musical contributions and performances on Appeal To Reason come across like he’s been with the band for years.
Right from the get-go, you are greeted by ready-made anthems which are raring to go. Throughout, the lyrics are laced with references to political disillusionment, environmental degradation, working class struggles and a burning desire for positive change. Tracks like Re-Education (Through Labor), Audience Of One and Savior all touch on these themes, which emphasise the need for personal and collective action. The songs themselves are also imbued with hooks and an anthemic quality, contributing in no small part to them becoming mainstays in the bands live performances since their release (Savior alone has been played by the band almost 800 times since it’s release).
Within the deep cuts of the albums lie some long forgotten gems – Principe’s ability to create melodic, driving and forceful basslines is on full display in songs like Long Forgotten Sons and The Dirt Whispered, where his efforts are reinforced by similarly top notch musical performances across the board from the band, and McIllrath’s evocative lyricism. Entertainment, with its bridge that feels like you’ve fallen into a demented circus show run by the people who caused the 2008 financial crisis, showcases the band’s willingness to experiment with their sound, as well as their ability to be playful and tongue in cheek without compromising the sincerity behind their messaging. These songs remain unsung heroes on the record that don’t get as much plaudits as they should do.
The true stand out song of the record though is the song; Hero Of War, which enters the hallowed halls of RISE AGAINST’s acoustic songs alongside tracks like Swing Life Away and People Live Here. The song is a heartfelt, empathetic and brutally honest acoustic ballad which follows the story of a soldier’s experience of war. The song addresses the emotional toll of war, depicting the disillusionment and trauma faced by a soldier who returns home. This emotional depth added a poignant and reflective dimension to the album, standing in contrast to the more politically charged and aggressive tracks. It has also become a mainstay of their live shows, giving crowds a moment of reflection and also a short and welcome break from the swathes of mosh pits their live shows bring.
Looking back, Appeal To Reason marked a significant moment of transition. It showcased the band’s ability to hold onto their roots whilst chasing new avenues within their punk rock framework, while also setting the foundations for future releases in terms of sound and production. It remains an important chapter within their discography, which contributes to their growing recognition around the globe. Messages of activism and hope resonate with fans and further solidify RISE AGAINST as one of the most vital forces and voices in punk rock.
While it didn’t achieve the same unanimous critical acclaim as its predecessor, it remains an important chapter in Rise Against’s discography, contributing to their growing global recognition. With their message of activism and hope, Appeal To Reason resonated with fans and further solidified RISE AGAINST as a vital force in punk rock. If we all shared the same view as RISE AGAINST, the world would indeed be a much happier place.
Appeal To Reason was originally released on October 7 2008 via Interscope Records
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