Rise Against: Ricochet review – powerful shift keeps fiery passion
Rise Against has carved out a unique niche in the punk rock world by seamlessly blending the raw energy of their early melodic hardcore days with the polished sheen of arena rock. With their 10th album, the Chicago veterans continue to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories while staying true to their roots.
Collaborating with producer Catherine Marks, known for her Grammy-winning work on Boygenius’s The Record, and mixer Alan Moulder, Rise Against strikes a delicate balance between raw, emotive storytelling and expertly crafted production. Vocalist Tim McIlrath’s politically charged lyrics are brought to life in tracks like Sink Like a Stone and Nod, drawing listeners in with a sense of urgency reminiscent of their defining 2006 hit, Prayer of the Refugee.
While it’s easy for bands to lose themselves in the transition to a bigger sound, Rise Against manages to toe the line admirably. Tracks like I Want It All venture into stomping garage rock territory, but fail to deliver the same impact as their more authentic punk roots. Similarly, power ballad Gold Long Gone feels overly slick and polished, missing the mark in capturing the raw emotion that defines the band’s best work.
However, Rise Against quickly redeems themselves with standout tracks like Black Crown. A collaboration with Andy Hull of Manchester Orchestra, Black Crown delivers a powerful message about the looming threat of apathy in a world on the brink of collapse. The song effortlessly combines gut-wrenching emotion with a polished sound, making it a standout moment on an album filled with highs and lows.
In an industry where many punk bands struggle to evolve without losing sight of their roots, Rise Against has managed to navigate the tricky waters of musical progression with finesse. Their ability to combine the aggression of punk with the grandiosity of arena rock sets them apart from their peers, solidifying their status as one of the most innovative and enduring bands in the genre.
With Ricochet, Rise Against proves once again that they are not content to rest on their laurels. Instead, they continue to push boundaries, experiment with new sounds, and deliver music that is both emotionally resonant and musically rich. As the world burns, Rise Against stands as a beacon of hope and defiance, serving as a reminder that music has the power to inspire change and stir the soul.