Rise Against

This fifth full length -- and first with guitarist Zack Blair -- kicks off with all the energy, passion and intelligent lyrics that brought this melodic hardcore quartet to the forefront. And while it dips in places, the Bill Stevenson/Jason Livermore-produced effort proves there's nothing wrong with more of the same as it returns to feel-it-in-your-gut form on standouts "The Strength to Go On," "Savior" and "Whereabouts Unknown," while political folk anthem "Hero of War" showcases McIllrath's ability to tone down his voice when turning up his message.