Rise Against at the Bell Center

Last Time Rise Against performed at the Bell Center, they were opening for Billy Talent in 2007. Since then, a lot has happened for the Chicago based band- one of those being the release of two albums.

For this North American tour, we had the chance to have 2 great opening acts: Hot Water Music and The Gaslight Anthem. Both bands seemed to be really happy to be there, and did their best to warm up the crowd. I must admit that Gaslight Anthem were probably not the best choice of opening act since their music is not really as punk and intense as Hot Water Music. I think the moshing crowd would have appreciated to be able to push and crowd surf a little more. At least they had plenty of energy left when Rise Against came on stage.

Their set opened with a projection of disturbing images, showing the negative events happening everywhere around the world, making us remember how socially engaged the band is. The intense night started off with Survivor Guilt, followed by Ready to Fall which made the crowd go completely nuts.

The rest of the night was followed by a great set list of songs including: The Good Left Undone, Broken English, Help is n the Way, Blood to Bleed, and Satellite. Tim Mcllrath and the rest of the band offered an explosive show and were always moving around to the pleasure of the jumping crowd. Prayer of the Refugee was the perfect way to end the first part of the show as the mosh pit went even crazier than it was before.

When Tim came back on stage alone with his acoustic guitar, every fan of Rise Against knew it was time to hear the beautiful love song Swing Life Away. The singer also offered a cover of No Use For a Name, in honor of the recently passed away Tony Sly. It was a really beautiful gesture that I’m sure moved everyone in the amphitheatre.

After another video about war and poverty (but also of hope of a better world) the band came back for the last time to play Midnight Hands, The Strength to Go On, and Savior.

Rise against proved yesterday that you don’t need explosions or amazing visual effects to deliver an amazing rock show. The energy, the great music, and the lyrics were definitely enough.