Rise Above - A Blast From the Past with Explosively Gritty Vocals and Frantically Driven Guitars

“Rise Above,” a blistering anthem by the legendary Black Flag, stands as a defiant call to action for anyone feeling trapped or stifled by societal expectations. Released in 1981 on their seminal album Damaged, this track transcends the confines of mere punk rock, carving its own path with its raw energy, complex song structure, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Black Flag, formed in 1976 in Hermosa Beach, California, emerged from the burgeoning Los Angeles punk scene. Their initial lineup consisted of guitarist Greg Ginn, bassist Chuck Dukowski, vocalist Dez Cadena, and drummer Robo (whose real name was Raymond Pettibon, a renowned visual artist who designed many of Black Flag’s iconic album covers).
Their early sound, raw and aggressive, quickly gained notoriety within the underground punk community. However, constant lineup changes plagued the band during its formative years. Ginn remained the steadfast core, driving the band’s musical direction with his unconventional guitar stylings.
The arrival of vocalist Henry Rollins in 1981 marked a pivotal moment for Black Flag. Rollins’ intense stage presence and confrontational lyrics resonated with the burgeoning hardcore punk movement. His powerful vocals added a layer of depth and urgency to Black Flag’s music, propelling them towards greater recognition.
“Rise Above,” one of the first songs written by Ginn after Rollins joined the band, perfectly encapsulates this newfound intensity. The song opens with a jarring blast of distorted guitar chords, punctuated by Robo’s thunderous drumming.
Rollins’ vocals enter, rasping and intense: “Rise above… We gotta get out of this place.” These words serve as an invitation to reject conformity and embrace personal freedom.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of isolation, alienation, and the struggle for self-discovery. Rollins’ voice conveys a sense of desperation and urgency, reflecting the angst and frustration felt by many young people navigating a world they perceived as hostile and oppressive.
The musical structure of “Rise Above” defies typical punk rock conventions. Instead of relying on simple verse-chorus-verse structures, the song unfolds in a series of dynamic shifts and tempo changes, keeping listeners engaged and on edge. The bridge section, characterized by Rollins’ spoken-word delivery and a haunting melody played on Ginn’s guitar, provides a momentary respite before the song explodes back into its frenetic climax.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Tempo | Fast (approximately 160 bpm) |
Key | E Minor |
Vocal Style | Rasping, intense, and passionate |
Guitar Technique | Distorted power chords, fast riffs, melodic interludes |
Drumming | Powerful and driving, with intricate fills |
“Rise Above” became an instant punk rock classic. Its message of rebellion and self-empowerment resonated deeply with audiences, cementing Black Flag’s status as one of the most influential bands in hardcore history. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, a testament to its enduring power and impact.
Beyond its musical merit, “Rise Above” holds a special significance within punk rock culture. It represents the genre’s ability to provide a voice for those who feel marginalized or misunderstood.
The song continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope for change and transcendence. As Rollins passionately sings, “We can do it… We can rise above.”
While Black Flag eventually disbanded in 1986, their legacy continues to thrive. Their music remains a powerful force, challenging norms and encouraging listeners to question authority and embrace individuality.
“Rise Above,” with its explosive energy and timeless message of defiance, stands as a testament to the enduring power of punk rock. It is a song that encourages us to break free from the shackles of conformity and strive for something greater, something beyond ourselves.