Artist: Rise Against

Album: Endgame 

Label: Geffen Records

With apocalyptic predictions coming back in style, it would be easy to dismiss Rise Against, and their new album Endgame, as just the latest group of doomsayers.

Give the band a second glance though, and they will prove to be just the opposite. For these Chicago-based punk rockers, Endgame is as much about instigating change as it is about endings.

Creation and discourse go hand-in-hand for Rise Against. "You can't fill your cup until you empty all it has. You'll never learn to fly until your standing at the cliff." Or so go the lyrics of "Satellite". The song, besides being one of the strongest in the album, could easily be dubbed Endgame's official anthem. The music calls for a drastic change of mindset within society, and new listeners will quickly learn that Endgame is all about delivering its message.

The opening song "Architect" sets the albums theme both musically and philosophically by pulling inspiration from activists like Malcom X and Howard Zinn. Three tracks later, the echoing chores of "Make It Stop" stabs at homophobia for its link to teen suicide, and the mournful lyrics of "Survivors Guilt" reflect on America's numerous wars and whether they were worth the cost of lives.

It's refreshing that the band members of Rise Against aren't shy about making personal or political statements with their songs. The problem is that the political statements can easily get in the way of the music. For every fist pumping anthem the band cranks out, there's an equally dull song waiting to be heard.

In particular, "Broken Mirrors" and "Disparity by Design" sound uninspired and forgettable. "A Gentlemen's Coup" may have a catchy beat to it, but for an album that prides itself on meaning, following the lyrics will just leave listeners confused.

Even the album's signature song "Endgame", with its apocalyptic lyrics promising "The end of yesterday" drops off suddenly, leaving the album to an abrupt finish. Was the band trying to make a statement? Maybe, either way, it's not a good way to make an exit. 

So what's the final verdict?  Endgame may not be spectacular, but still earns a solid B+ for its powerful songs and poignant messages. Fans of the punk rockers will be more than pleased with this new edition, and newcomers to the Chicago group will find plenty to enjoy. Whether you're looking for hard rock or reckless philosophy, Rise Against does not disappoint.   

*This review first published 3/28/2011