Rise Against is awesome! Too few alt rock bands take a stand on social issues. "Help Is on the Way" was a scathing indictment about the tragedies inflicted on the people of the Gulf Coast. Now, "Make It Stop" is a poignant, moving statement about gay teen suicide...with an upbeat, hopeful ending!
As a 53 year-old gay man who survived not only miserable teen years, but the AIDS crisis as well, I really applaud the guys in Rise Against for taking a stand on this issue. Sadly, there has been little attention paid to Rise Against in the gay media, except for something on the LOGO network. Unfortunately, most gay people I know have their heads up their asses when it comes to music. They listen to Lady Gaga and think she's gutsy for speaking out in support of gays (she knows who buys her music). On the other hand, Rise Against can influence the most important audience to reach with this message...the 18-24 year old male.
The video for "Make It Stop" contains powerful images and was filmed at lead singer Tim's alma mater high school in Rolling Meadows, Illinois (the suburb next door to where I spent my miserable teens). I can't wait for Rise Against's next album!
Rise Against is awesome! Too few alt rock bands take a stand on social issues. "Help Is on the Way" was a scathing indictment about the tragedies inflicted on the people of the Gulf Coast. Now, "Make It Stop" is a poignant, moving statement about gay teen suicide...with an upbeat, hopeful ending!
As a 53 year-old gay man who survived not only miserable teen years, but the AIDS crisis as well, I really applaud the guys in Rise Against for taking a stand on this issue. Sadly, there has been little attention paid to Rise Against in the gay media, except for something on the LOGO network. Unfortunately, most gay people I know have their heads up their asses when it comes to music. They listen to Lady Gaga and think she's gutsy for speaking out in support of gays (she knows who buys her music). On the other hand, Rise Against can influence the most important audience to reach with this message...the 18-24 year old male.
The video for "Make It Stop" contains powerful images and was filmed at lead singer Tim's alma mater high school in Rolling Meadows, Illinois (the suburb next door to where I spent my miserable teens). I can't wait for Rise Against's next album!