The Band
Rise Against is an American punk rock, melodic hardcore band formed in 1999. They are known for their advocacy of causes such as human and animal rights, environmentalism, and progressive politics, as well as supporting organizations like Amnesty International and PETA. Most of their members are vegetarians or vegans and follow the straight-edge lifestyle.
Band Members
- Tim McIlrath – vocals, guitar
- Zach Blair – guitar,
- Joe Principe – bass guitar
- Brandon Barnes – drums
The Album
Ricochet is Rise Against’s tenth studio album. Released on August 15, 2025.
Tim has said that this album is about how we are all interconnected and everything you do is going to affect somebody. We’re also connected by every decision our leaders make; that’s the ricochet effect.
My knowledge of this band came recently when I was scrolling through Instagram, and they appeared in a concert video, and Tim was giving a political speech before the next song. That’s how they got my attention (I’ve always loved bands with a message and a political stance), so taking advantage of the fact that they were releasing a new album, it was the perfect moment to listen to them, reviewing their new work and stepping into Rise Against’s world.
The Songs
1. Nod. When it started, it reminded me of Volbeat (Tim’s way of singing). Good guitar riff and bass lines (especially before the third verse). This was one of the singles.
2. I Want It All. I love the initial riff and that lingers throughout the whole song, super catchy. This was another single.
3. Ricochet. The title track. It begins with an acoustic guitar. I love the bass tone; it sounds amazing.
This is about the contrast between, while some people dance, others suffer the effects of bombs and bullets. Every action carries weight. Great song with a great message.
4. Damage Is Done. This grabbed me right away. Relationship problems. Absolute banger.
5. Us Against The World. One of my favorite songs on this album. A punky love song. If we’re together, we can overcome any difficulty.
6. Black Crown. I love the bass, so clear and loud in the back. A ballad. He regrets losing his lover and misses them.
The guest vocals are Andy Hull of Manchester Orchestra and Jennifer Decilveo.
It has a muddy vibe, like ’90s grunge.
7. Sink Like A Stone. Power. Rocker. Relationship issues, pre-breaking up.
8. Forty Days. I love the way that Tim builds up, very hyped, punky song. Another one of my favorites of the album.
9. State Of Emergency. Great build up too, love it, super punky with calmer moments and very anthemic vibe, I can imagine this song would be amazing playing live with all those “oooh oooh”, it has great potential.
10. Gold Long Gone. It starts with an acoustic guitar and Tim singing, very raw, calm, a protest song, very emotional.
11. Soldier. About a soldier who deserts because he no longer wants to keep fighting a war that isn’t his. Great message and song.
12. Prizefighter. The last track. Another single. Nice guitar solo. With this song, the album ended on a high note, a kick-ass song!
Final Thoughts
For me, this is a great album, good lyrics (with real messages) accompanied by powerful riffs, bass, and drums.
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🎵 Album mentioned in this review:
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Tracklist
- Nod
- I Want It All
- Ricochet
- Damage Is Done
- Us Against The World
- Black Crown
- Sink Like A Stone
- Forty Days
- State Of Emergency
- Gold Long Gone
- Soldier
- Prizefighter