Prophets of Rage
Prophets of Rage

Supergroups always cause a stir when they are formed, which is then accompanied by high expectations. However, the risk they run is producing sterile work, both in content and in their ability to connect with the audience. Is this the case for Prophets of Rage?

The band led by Tom Morello hits the shelves with the self-titled "Prophets of Rage," a work that makes simplicity its greatest weapon. The work of the former Rage Against The Machine is, as usual, permeated with great political and social commitment, alongside his creativity and the power of his longtime companions (Tim Commerford on bass and Brad Wilk on drums). A reunion with the much-missed Zach de la Rocha seems impossible. So why not try forming a supergroup? Something Morello has already successfully done in the past (see Audioslave).

Powerful, direct music characterized by the distorted solos of the New York guitarist, which accompany the sharp rhymes of B-Real (Cypress Hill) and Chuck-D (Public Enemy). After all, these two had already made rhyming their trade long ago. Add DJ Lord (Public Enemy) on the turntables, and you're all set. The '90s were a fortunate time to grow up for those who love rock and rap. And now, in this recipe, we find aged first-quality ingredients.

"Unfuck the World" is the battle cry. A world crushed under the weight of power that all the aforementioned artists have always sought to expose. We are faced with a live band that, in front of an audience, is endowed with unparalleled energy. On record, where you can't see Tom's grimaces and hands, B-Real's fire, the composure, experience, and strength of Chuck-D, does the message still come across?

It certainly does.

Prophets of Rage are not just rage and noise or, as the more cultured might say, "all smoke and no fire." The messages they carry and the rhymes of the two singers rest on the solid foundation of formidable musicians. Standout tracks like "Living on the 110," which after a perfect RATM-style intro opens with B-Real's rhymes. A simple text that immediately grabs the listener's attention, also thanks to the weaving of the two voices and a series of hypnotic riffs; "Take me Higher," which plays ironically on the invasiveness of drones, a current topic that has sparked various discussions. But the track is also distinguished by the funky-style guitar accompaniment before the riff and the explosion of the solo.

This supergroup has definitely made the most of music's power to be a vehicle for messages. Something that might have seemed obvious in the '70s, but not in 2017. "Prophets of Rage" is an attack on the entire system: the government first and foremost, but also the way the music and success industry works.

So try listening to the album. Then go see them live, mosh wildly, and when the moment is right, stop and admire Tom's solos.

The election of Trump was a shock for many, but at least not everyone remains silent. It is indeed the case to say: "Clear the way for the Prophets of Rage"