In praise of Rise Against

Normally, punk and hardcore isn't really my thing -- I'm more into power pop and classic rock. But I'm one of those people who'll listen to anything if it sounds good to me. And Rise Against... man, do they sound good.

I know this next part is going to sound rather hackneyed, but so many of their songs just speak to me on such a deep level, more than pretty much any other band I've heard. Hero of War damn near had me in tears by the end, especially since I have a cousin who's currently serving in the British Army. Help Is On the Way? While not the best-sounding song in the world, I actually felt angry while listening to it, thinking of the people who had to suffer through disasters even more because of the ineptitude of the responders. Make It Stop (September's Children) is beautiful, and another song that speaks to me as both a bi-curious man and an advocate for LGBT rights. It sounds silly, but Rise Against truly made me appreciate how music can be used to deliver a message.

If you haven't heard their music before, give them a listen. All of their stuff is great, and all of it contains a powerful message. If politically and socially motivated hardcore and punk is your thing, you'll be right at home with them.