M'Lou Elkins 
CONCERT REVIEW + PHOTOS
RISE AGAINST
11/8/24 – House of Blues – Dallas, TX
©M’Lou Elkins / Skip2Photography.com
On a rainy and unusually chilly Dallas night, I headed out to the House of Blues to catch the sold-out performance from RISE AGAINST.
RISE AGAINST is a significant name in the music world, known for their energetic sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Since forming in 1999 in Chicago, they have developed a strong fan base and received much critical acclaim, particularly for their ability to blend melodic elements with hardcore punk influences. With seven Top 50 records on the Billboard 200 chart, five of which reached the top 10, RISE AGAINST’s albums have touched on a spectrum of vital issues including voting rights, LGBTQ rights, animal rights, and environmental causes.
They’re known for their wholehearted engagement with fans and their socially conscious lyrics resonate with many listeners, addressing important issues like political corruption, societal inequality, and environmental concerns. Their deep connection with their audience is further strengthened during their live shows, where their engagement is palpable. Known for their high-energy performances and genuine interaction with fans, RISE AGAINST creates an inclusive atmosphere that fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
Albums like “The Sufferer & the Witness,” “Appeal to Reason,” and “Endgame” showcase their evolution as musicians and their dedication to using their platform for social good. The band’s current lineup has contributed to their dynamic and versatile sound, with each member bringing their unique style to the group.
Rise Against kicked off a powerful performance with “Satellite” from their 2011 album Endgame and “Under the Knife” from The Sufferer & The Witness released in 2006.
It was clear from the moment they took the stage that their passion for music is unwavering. Guitarist Zach Blair was all smiles, soaking in the energy as he enthusiastically engaged with the audience and played to the cameras in the photo pit.
Lead vocalist Tim McIlrath energized the crowd as he announced that everyone was there to enjoy the music and have a good time, before launching into one of their most popular tracks, “Ready to Fall,” prompting collective singing from the audience who knew every word.
Their 16-song setlist concluded with the iconic “Savior,” showcasing a diverse selection of their music as they performed hits from seven different albums. The night was a testament to Rise Against’s dynamic presence and their ability to connect with fans across their discography.
It was recently announced that legendary band PAPA ROACH will join forces with RISE AGAINST and special guest UNDEROATH to head out on the first North American legs of the “Rise Of The Roach” tour in the spring and fall of 2025. This will be the first-ever outing together for these two iconic bands.
Tim McIlrath of RISE AGAINST had this to say about the upcoming tour: “After crossing paths with PAPA ROACH countless times over the years, we’re stoked to finally team up and put our bands together on the same stage and our fans together in the same room. With the welcome addition of our old friends UNDEROATH, this will be the best damn tour of 2025. See you soon!”
With a lineup like this, the “Rise Of The Roach” tour is set to be a memorable event for fans, showcasing the evolution of both bands and celebrating their enduring legacies in the music world.
As Rise Against continues to tour, produce new music, and engage with fans, they’re solidifying their place in rock music history. Whether through their explosive live performances or their impactful studio albums, they remain a voice for change and a staple of their genre.
Rise Against: Remaining Tour Dates:
11/11 Albuquerque, NM Revel Entertainment Center
11/13 Boise, ID Revolution
11/15 Portland, OR Roseland Theater
11/16 Vancouver, BC Harbour
11/17 Seattle, WA Showbox SoDo
11/19 Berkeley, CA UC Theatre Berkeley
11/20 Anaheim, CA HOB
11/22 Del Mar, CA The Sound
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