In the beginning, it was rock *or* rap...
On one side you had groups like Public Enemy who would rap about real social and political problems. These songs had important lyrics against repetitive 'scratched' beats. On the other side there were bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath. These bands had huge riffs, but the lyrics weren't quite as spectacular.
These two great forces don't usually cross paths - at least not until the release of Rage Against The Machine's self-titled debut album, which has sold more than 3 million copies worldwide. Instead of going for that alterna-punk-rock hit sound, Rage is staying true to their ideals, and has just released Evil Empire. This time the lyrics are stronger, the grooves are enlarged, and the power turned up past 11.
The band has show support (sometimes financially) in numerous causes ranging from anti-Nazi campaigns in Europe to anti-censorship efforts in the US. The later was punctuated when the four members walked on-stage on a Lollapalooza concert in Philadelphia nude, and tape on their mouths. As you may recall, they used the video for their song "Freedom" to urge the release of Native American activist Leonard Peltier.
On Evil Empire there are some new messages brought to mind. Several songs deal with the ongoing struggle of the Zapatistas. These farmers are seeking freedom from the ruling class and the problem at hand is most clearly stated in the song "Without A Face". Their struggle is brought out with lyrics like "Yes I know my deadline sire, it's when my life expires"
Most bands would hail mass media has a good and use it for what it's worth. RATM blows a hole in right-wing talk shows via the song "Vietnow" saying "I tune in wit a bullet ta shut down tha devil sound/tha program of vietnow".
Sometimes the lyrics of Zack De La Rocha(vocals) go astray and leave the listener to wonder what he means. At that place is where the music kicks in, thanks to the superb guitar playing of Tom Morello. Tom is able to create the mood and feelings that Zack sometimes misses. Tom's style goes from Black Sabbath in "Wind Below" to the DJ-style scratching during the interlude of "Bulls On Parade"
Sticking to what the do best, RATM has made another winning record. If you were a fan before, then Evil Empire should be even better because of Tom's more diverse style of guitar playing.
