Nothing could be better than being able to speak one's mind while not caring what others think. The politically charged punk band Rise Against does just that. Taking aggressive, melodic punk and hardcore traits and combining them with thought-provoking lyrics, the members of Rise Against have created one of the most unique sounds the punk-rock scene recently heard.
Bassist Joe Principe and lead vocalist Tim Mcllrath breathed life into Rise Against in 1999 by combining Principe's attraction to older punk rock and Mcllrath's love for more emotional, melodic punk to create such incendiary songs such as "Like The Angel" and "Rumors Of My Demise Have Been Greatly Exaggerated."
The band currently touring in support of its third album, Siren Song Of The Counter Culture, became a priority in the eyes of Principe, Mcllrath, Brandon Barnes (drums) and Todd Mohney (guitar) after honing their chops in other bands.
Landing a deal with record label Fat Wreck Chords, founded by Fat Mike, the bassist from NOFX, only pushed the band even further.
"Fat Mike is amazing," Principe said. "We've known him for a long time, and he has created such an artist friendly label. They have always been supportive or us and our music."
Despite their slow rise into the limelight, the band members have made sure to keep themselves in check and not allow "going mainstream" to affect their music.
"We never let how big or how small (we are) influence our music," Principe said. "As long as you maintain your integrity, and as long as you are true to yourself, then you will never be one of those bands who sell out."
Keeping those words in mind, Rise Against has stayed true to its music and its message of fighting against racism, AIDS, animal rights, inhumane electro-shock therapy, as well as campaigning against the re-election of President Bush.
However, music has always been the priority.
"All of us grew up not fitting in," he said. "If I didn't have this (music) I would be going insane. Music is in all of us. Without it we would be lost."
Even though the band can sometimes spend months on tour, its members feed off the crowd and each other to keep the energy so playing music and doing what they love doesn't become repetitive. It also helps touring with bands such as the Mad Caddies and AFI.
"When we tour with friends, it makes touring easier." Principe said.
Rise Against plays at 8 p.m. Friday at The Rave, 2401 W. Wisconsin Ave. Bad Religion and From First to Last will also take the stage. Call 342-RAVE or visit www.therave.com for more information.