Appeal To Reason
by Rise Against
Metascore
65

Generally favorable reviews - based on 10 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 10
  3. Negative: 0 out of 10
  1. Billboard
    70
    There's nothing here you haven't heard before from Rise Against--or, indeed, from Bad Religion before that. But producers Bill Stevenson (of the Descendents and All) and Jason Livermore keep the music moving at a breakneck pace that gives everything the gleam of urgency anyway.
  2. Rolling Stone
    70
    Rise Against may be nervous about leaving the underground behind, but with sharp songs like these, they're ready for the rest of the world.
  3. Slant Magazine
    70
    Because of the current pop landscape's shift away from melodic rock it's impossible to tell if Rise Against will ever break out, but it's nice to know that, either way, they're still making aggressive, well structured pop-minded hardcore.
  5. Sputnikmusic
    70
    While it may not be a classic record and won’t be the new soundtrack to the revolution, Appeal to Reason is filled with faux-punk rock anthems and memorable lyrics and basslines that will satiate anybodies need for Rise Against.
  6. The A.V. Club
    75
    Longtime fans need not worry: Uptempo anthems like 'Savior,' 'Kotov Syndrome,' and 'Entertainment' should satisfy anyone still uneasy about Rise Against's radio aspirations.
  7. The New York Times
    70
    Punk-rockers, like bluesmen, often devote themselves to perpetuating their style rather than transforming it. For Rise Against, that relentless earnestness is both a defining factor and a limitation.

Awards & Rankings

96
#96 Most Discussed Album of 2008
68
#68 Most Shared Album of 2008

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 94 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 87 out of 94
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 94
  3. Negative: 4 out of 94
  1. BenC
    Feb 21, 2009
    10
    Dominic you are completely outa line, this album is the best yet i've heard from Rise Against. Its solid, timely and awesome fun to Dominic you are completely outa line, this album is the best yet i've heard from Rise Against. Its solid, timely and awesome fun to listen to. Ultimately, it doesnt matter if they've gona a bit mainstream, as long as their music still holds the quality that made Sufferer and the Witness, and it does. Ive been listening since The Unraveling and other albums from them, but ive gotta say this is the best by far. Tim's lyrics are so sharp and relevant to everything they stand for. Perfect album, perfect band.… Full Review »
  2. JoshM
    Jan 2, 2009
    10
    This album is very entertaining. The only people who do not seem to like it are the ones who do not like Rise Against's style overall or This album is very entertaining. The only people who do not seem to like it are the ones who do not like Rise Against's style overall or don't like seeing consistency in a band, and these are the ones who should just be leaving it alone anyway. So if you like Rise Against, you will like this album.… Full Review »
  3. RyFox
    Nov 13, 2015
    8
    To be honest, when it comes to Rise Against, their albums usually sound very similar. However, that is usually my only complaint since ITo be honest, when it comes to Rise Against, their albums usually sound very similar. However, that is usually my only complaint since I personally enjoy the style. This style stays the same in Appeal To Reason, although they also try to expand their style with Hero Of War. Although, I personally though Hero Of War was the low point on the album, it was still a good listen. If you can't get the whole album though, I suggest getting Savior, Entertainment, Collapse, Re-Education, and Kotov Syndrome… Full Review »
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