Someone call the RIAA because I stole an album. That's right, I downloaded the entire Reclamation Process album using a downloading program that shall rename nameless. So how long before I can expect a knock at my door from men in black? Who cares? Let them knock. Why am I being so bold about illegally downloading music? Perhaps it is the fact that the album in question from The Rise is available for free. One can't be accused of stealing something that is free, now can they?
Reclamation Process gets the adrenaline pumping with the energetic "Durational Expectancy," followed by the equally vigorous "The Most Intensive Second Guessing." It is apparent that The Rise has taken the next step with the greatest of ease, avoiding an ill-fated sophomore jinx. The guitar tone reminds me of Snapcase's End Transmission; perhaps Stuart Reilly and Ben Hicks are fans. And while the music still combines equal parts of hardcore-punk and electronica elements, there are noticeable improvements. For example, vocalist Cory Kilduff demonstrates his ability to not only scream but to let out soothing melodies of clean singing. Also, this time around The Rise lean towards a more conventional form of songwriting. By following more traditional verse/chorus structure, the songs flow especially smoothly.
One might notice the electronica aspect is lacking in some songs; the use of drummer Kemble Walters is more prevalent. And while the programming work of James Welsh does occasionally takes the backseat to the rest of the music, there is still enough programming and vocal modifications in the songs and interludes to keep an Aphex Twin fan content.
And while many may turn up their noses at the idea of programming being difficult, it does take considerable skill to create electronica that is original, let alone incorporate it in into a traditional band form. It is rather intriguing that sounds produced by computers can be combined together and form music, let alone evoke feelings in us.
Perhaps trying to steer clear of being pigeonholed, The Rise continue to experiment with their sound on this record. It's fairly apparent after listening to "Information, The Kinetic Image " that the boys have enjoyed listening to At the Drive-In quite a bit. Not only does the music bear resemblance to the Texas legends, but Kilduff's delivery even mimics Cedric Bixler's at points.
Lyrically, Kilduff has always tackled thought-provoking topics such as political and social issues in an abstract way. He continued his assault by addressing these topics once again, and this time declaring to all that "This is time to take a stand."
With their debut effort, The Rise was criticized as being nothing more than a Refused knock-off. But on Reclamation Process the band has elevated their songwriting and created an album that not only pays homage to "that band," but also one-ups them in several ways. And with dance-punk acts like The Faint and !!! all the rave these days, I can attest that, if given the right promotion, "An Engineered Message" could catapult the popularity of The Rise to MTV2 and beyond.
Note: You can receive this album free when you order the Law of Inertia Magazine #21.
