Rise Against

The Black Market (2014)

GabrielleAG

Rise Against fans had long awaited the return of the Chicago based band with a whole new spectrum of songs. Three years after their last album, Endgame, was released, it was no doubt that it had passed time for something new.

The Black Market is a fairly short album (although most punk albums are), but that doesn't stop it from holding just as much power as Rise Against's albums have in the past. Although it is much softer and a lot less aggressive, the political and pro-human content still hits home with every last note. The track, "Tragedy+Time", is every angsty kid looking for a pick-me-up's anthem with beyond emotional lyrics that develop as the song elapses as well as precise melodies and beats that drive straight through to the heart. While the single "I Don't Want To Be Here Anymore" sings of a world full of mistakes and tribulations with a heavy sense of hopelessness and desire for change.

The first time listening through, it is hard to pick up on the true artistry that is The Black Market, but upon second review, it's like a whole new album. The more you listen to it, the more subtle little bits you pick up on that display the band's true talent. Every note and syllable on the album is there for a reason, and soon you won't be able to get those songs out of your head.

All in all, the three years was worth the wait, although maybe a few more songs would have been appreciated. Rise Against never cease to put their best work forward, and it is just a matter of time until the next big work of art will be blasting out of our stereos, just as The Black Market will be doing for years to come.