Rise Against
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Band Timeline
1999
Formation of Rise Against
Rise Against was formed in Chicago in 1999 by bassist Joe Principe and guitarist Dan Wleklinski. The band originated after the breakup of their previous band, 88 Fingers Louie. Joined by vocalist Tim McIlrath, guitarist Kevin White, and drummer Tony Tintari, they initially went by the name Transistor Revolt. Their early work was characterized by a fast-paced punk style, and after releasing an EP under the original name, they signed with Fat Wreck Chords and changed their name to Rise Against.
2001
Release of debut album 'The Unraveling'
In 2001, Rise Against released their debut studio album, 'The Unraveling', through the independent label Fat Wreck Chords. This album established their presence in the punk rock underground scene with its aggressive sound and socially conscious lyrics. Despite being an independent release, the album received critical acclaim and helped the band build a dedicated fan base. The album's themes set the stage for the band's future focus on political and social issues.
2003
Release of second album 'Revolutions per Minute' and major label signing
Rise Against released their second album, 'Revolutions per Minute', in 2003, continuing their relationship with Fat Wreck Chords. The album enjoyed underground success and further cemented the band's reputation for melodic yet aggressive punk rock. Later that year, the band signed with Dreamworks Records, marking their transition to a major label. Shortly thereafter, Dreamworks was absorbed by Geffen Records, providing Rise Against with greater resources for promotion and distribution.
2004
Major label debut with 'Siren Song of the Counter Culture'
Rise Against's major label debut, 'Siren Song of the Counter Culture', was released in 2004 through Geffen Records. This album propelled the band to mainstream success, featuring hit singles like 'Give It All' and 'Swing Life Away'. The success of these singles garnered significant radio play and expanded their audience beyond the punk community. The album blended the band's punk roots with more melodic and accessible soundscapes, laying the groundwork for their future musical evolution.
2006
Breakthrough with 'The Sufferer & the Witness'
In 2006, Rise Against released 'The Sufferer & the Witness', which became their first album to enter the top 10 on the Billboard 200 chart, peaking at number ten. This album marked their international breakthrough as it also charted in countries outside North America for the first time. Musically, the album maintained their high-energy punk sound while incorporating more melodic and socially aware lyrics, which resonated with fans and critics alike, strengthening their position in the punk rock genre.
2008
Shift to radio-friendly sound with 'Appeal to Reason'
With their 2008 release 'Appeal to Reason', Rise Against adopted a more polished and accessible sound aimed at broader radio play. This album, released via DGC and Interscope Records, emphasized production quality and melodic hooks while retaining the band's punk ethos. The third single from the album, 'Savior', achieved record-breaking longevity on both the Hot Rock Songs and Alternative Songs charts, spending over a year on these charts. The commercial success of 'Appeal to Reason' solidified Rise Against's place in mainstream rock.
2011
Commercial peak with 'Endgame'
Rise Against released 'Endgame' in 2011, which peaked at number two on the Billboard 200, marking the band's highest chart position to date. The album showed a blend of their aggressive punk origins and the melodic sensibilities developed over previous albums. 'Endgame' received positive reviews and performed well internationally, increasing the band's global profile. The album's success was accompanied by extensive tours, further solidifying Rise Against's reputation as a major force in punk rock.
2014
Continued success with 'The Black Market'
'The Black Market', released in 2014, continued Rise Against's streak of commercial and critical success. The album reached number three on the Billboard 200 and was their third consecutive album to top the Canadian Albums Chart. Maintaining their activist lyrical themes, the album also featured collaborations with Norwegian producer Bjorn Thorsrud. The band supported the album with worldwide tours, reinforcing their connection with fans and their standing as a socially conscious punk band in the modern rock landscape.
2017
Release of 'Wolves' and ongoing relevance
In 2017, Rise Against released their eighth studio album, 'Wolves', which maintained the band's reputation for politically charged content mixed with melodic punk rock. The album continued to chart in the top ten on the Billboard 200 in the United States. 'Wolves' took a slightly darker and more urgent tone, addressing contemporary political and social issues. The album's release was supported by tours and active engagement with social and political causes, confirming Rise Against's identity as a band committed to activism through music.
2021
Release of 'Nowhere Generation' and present-day status
Rise Against released 'Nowhere Generation' in 2021, their ninth studio album. The album continued to explore themes of social justice, economic disparity, and political dissent, consistent with the band's legacy of activism. While it did not reach the top ten on the Billboard 200, it was well-received by their fan base and critics for maintaining the band's energetic punk sound. The release was accompanied by digital promotions and a focus on addressing contemporary global issues during a challenging period for the music industry.
2025
Upcoming release of 'Ricochet'
Rise Against is scheduled to release their tenth studio album, 'Ricochet', on August 15, 2025. This upcoming album is highly anticipated by fans and critics alike, expected to continue the band's trajectory of combining socially conscious lyrics with powerful punk rock music. The release will mark over 25 years of the band's presence in the punk rock scene, showcasing their longevity and ongoing relevance in the genre. Preparations for tours and promotions are expected to accompany this release, signaling the band's active status.
Albums
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Members
Current
Name
Begin
Occupation
Zach Blair
2007
Background vocals
Guitar
Joe Principe
1999
Background vocals
Bass
Brandon Barnes
2000
Percussion
Drums (drum set)
Lee Miles
N/A
Tim McIlrath
1999
Guitar
Lead vocals
Dan Wlekinski
N/A
History
Name
Begin
End
Occupation
Chris Chasse
2004
2007
Todd Mohney
2001
2004
Tony Tintari
1999
2000
Mr. Precision
1999
2001
Story of Rise Against
Rise Against: A Punk Rock Anthem for the Ages
Hailing from the concrete jungle of Chicago, Rise Against emerged in 1999, spitting fire and fury. This ain't your average punk band, though. They're steeped in the raw energy of hardcore, but with a melodic twist that'll get stuck in your head like a broken record. Think blistering guitars, ferocious drums, and vocals that scream about injustice.
Their early days were spent cutting their teeth on the independent label Fat Wreck Chords, where their albums The Unraveling (2001) and Revolutions per Minute (2003) built a loyal following in the underground scene. But Rise Against wasn't content with just the back alleys. They signed with Dreamworks in 2003, and with Siren Song of the Counter Culture (2004), they broke through to the mainstream. Tracks like "Give It All" and "Swing Life Away" became anthems for a generation yearning for change.
Their next album, The Sufferer & the Witness (2006), solidified their status. It hit the top ten on the Billboard 200 and conquered charts worldwide, proving they were more than just a flash in the pan.
With Appeal to Reason (2008), they upped the ante, pushing their sound towards a more polished and radio-friendly direction. The album's powerhouse track, "Savior," shattered records, dominating the airwaves and proving their staying power.
Rise Against aren't just about the music, though. They're vocal activists, using their platform to speak out against injustice, championing animal rights, and advocating for a greener planet. They're not afraid to ruffle feathers, and they've become a voice for those who feel unheard.
Rise Against, more than just a band, they're a movement. A punk rock revolution for a better tomorrow.
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