Ignore the fact that Rage Against The Machine haven’t released a non-cover album since 1999’s acclaimed Battle Of Los Angeles. Forget the fact that the band is all in the throes of middle age. The possible return of the band (hinted at right here with a reference to Public Enemy as well) would surprise nobody, at this point. There’s plenty of reasons why we need Rage more than ever.
Consider the parallels between when the band released their self-titled, debut album in 1992 – and the current climate of 2016. Right now, there’s two of the most hated politicians in US history, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, vying for the position of POTUS. In 1992, there was plenty of political unrest when Bill Clinton attempted to unseat George H.W. Bush and his “no new taxes” reverb. Political unrest and social change, with gay/lesbian couples allowed to marry in all 50 states, constant media coverage of one of the most important elections in history, and all the hubbub from conservatives about the transgender policies in Target, make right now the perfect time for Rage Against The Machine to make a comeback. Preferably with new material.
They were always likely the most important (and possibly first) band to merge a hard-edged rap attack with heavy metal music. It may seem cliched today, but there was a time where Rage Against The Machine’s style was groundbreaking and fresh. And really, it still is. Tracks like “Calm Like A Bomb” and “Killing In The Name Of” were just as revolutionary in the 90’s as they are today, and their messages resonate much the same way that Public Enemy did just before them – providing a voice for the disenfranchised and left out.
While we don’t know what RATM is teasing just yet, whether it’s a festival or two, a full tour, new material incoming – the band coming back would be incredibly important, given the current climate of the world. Unrest always breeds the best art, and whatever they’re planning – we’ll find out in two weeks.
