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Anti-Flag

For Blood and Empire
2006
RCA

Anti-Flag - For Blood and Empire (Cover Artwork)


Review by: MammothPress
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Published on March 21st 2006

Yes, it’s on a major label. No, I don’t give a shit. Now that that’s out of the way, let's talk about For Blood and Empire, the latest from Pittsburgh's own Anti-Flag. I’m going to pull out the dreaded 'M' word that makes most punks shake in their Docs, so don’t say I didn’t warn you: Anti-Flag has matured. They’ve grown up from their early days as a fun but politically immature band, (I love Die for Your Government, but its message is one that is politically and practically unrealistic) and have emerged with smarter songs and a platform that could catapult them to the spot left vacant by Rage Against the Machine.

For Blood and Empire shows the band experimenting with their classic street-punk-by-way-of-pop-punk sound and even incorporating elements of folk, ska and `80s hardcore into the band's already powerful bag of tricks. They even manage to combine a roots rocker verse with a Weezer-sounding power-pop chorus on "This Is the End (For You My Friend)." Heck, "One Trillion Dollars" wears its Billy Brag influence like a neck tattoo. The variety of songwriting keeps the album from ever getting boring, unlike some of the band's past albums when the last half sort of bled together. This time around every song could be a single. If only they could get radio to play songs this lyrically brutal.

Yes, it's time to talk politics. Just to let those readers out there who thought Anti-Flag’s major label debut would be made up of love songs or acoustic ballads about “sitting on back porches,” it’s not. In fact, it’s just as full of piss and bile as any of their previous works. Only it’s based less on sloganeering and more on facts and undeniable truths.

"Depleted Uranium Is a War Crime" is about the depleted uranium bullets our army uses that leave radioactive dust when they shatter. This happens whenever a bullet is fired. While the Pentagon argues that DP has no adverse effects, the soaring rates in birth defects and cancer in the parts of Southern Iraq where the army dropped tons of DP munitions during the first Gulf War tell a different story. Likewise, the press is taken to task on "The Press Corps" for their cowardice when it comes to reporting negative stories about the current administration.

"One Trillion Dollars" looks at our nation's gun-buying habit; over 50% of the munitions sold in the world are bought by the U.S. If you had an uncle who bought this many guns, you’d be having a family intervention. (Speaking of which, I need to call my Uncle Don.) The most powerful song, lyrically, from my point of view is "I’d Tell You But…," which is about all the things a victim of collateral damage would like to tell the dropper of the bomb that killed them. It’s an interesting perspective regardless of your politics, and it’s part of what makes For Blood and Empire so powerful. While the sloganeering sing-alongs aren’t completely gone from the band's songbook, they’ve focused on writing stories and thought out points and not just cries of “FUCK THE GOVERNMENT!”

The place for Anti-Flag and other political bands has grown by leaps and bounds during the last 8 years in America and the rest of the world, ironically as corporations, like the one that is releasing this record, have been given first dibs at tax cuts and government money while social programs are cut and (at least our government) slow turns into a theocracy. The people however just sit back and remain blissfully unaware of the problems affecting their lives and their children’s lives. Political music has always served the purpose of informing and changing the hearts and minds of the people. “Catapulting the propaganda” is the term President Bush would use.

However, it’s impossible to change minds with crappy music (just ask the white supremacy movement). For Blood and Empire is full of passion and intelligence, but it’s also overflowing with great songwriting and memorable lyrics. People responded to Rage Against the Machine because they saw them as songwriters first and revolutionaries second. Anti-Flag may not have been shooting for that vibe when they wrote this record, but they sure as hell achieved it.

[originally written for Mammoth Press]



People who liked this also liked:
NOFX - The DeclineNOFX - Punk In DrublicRise Against - Revolutions Per MinuteThe Lawrence Arms - Oh! Calcutta!Operation Ivy - Operation IvyAgainst Me! - As The Eternal CowboyThe Lawrence Arms - The Greatest Story Ever ToldAgainst Me! - is Reinventing Axl RoseRancid - ... And Out Come The WolvesAnti-Flag - Underground Network



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    Posted by cheddar on 2009-10-01 10:46:33
    My Score:

    I have mixed feelings about this album. the first 4 songs are amazing. then between track 5 until the last song, was at the time the biggest load of garbage i had ever heard from this band. it was depressing. i had liked this band for a long time even after all my friends growing up grew out of liking this band and it was no longer cool or "punk" to like them anymore. I still did, the last track depleted uranium is a war crime, is probably the best damn anti flag song i have ever heard. Im really glad i had a friend point that song out to me, because i didnt make it to the end the first time i listened to it because i couldnt stand to hear another song.

    Posted by allfornot on 2008-12-18 20:56:24

    I like this album. It's enjoyable for me.

    Posted by MattFES on 2008-12-14 22:18:45
    My Score:

    lets get this outta the way. im sick of all the immature fucks, who first say anti-flag sold out. selling out isnt playing at the metro(one of the smallest venues in chicago). selling out is playing shows across the u.s at places like united center. and no selling out is not getting a new crowd. ive been a fan of anti-flag for a while. because new ppl are realizing they set a good message, thats selling out? you need to grow the fuck up and realize punk isn't fukin about the mohawks and ur leather jackets. y do u give 2 shits about the way someone looks or dresses. that was one of A-F's purposes from the start to accept others. and u all rub it in the dirt. you call urselves fans? and because the memberslike justin and pat and both chris's have to make a living somehow, its such a terrible thing for them to make some money with a new label?you guys can spam me all ya want. it doesnt matter. maybe this will get u thinking about urselves, and to not make this band look like all of its fans have no care for others.

    Posted by The_Crowing on 2007-10-25 16:55:51

    Yes that's right, punk is dead
    It's just another cheap product for the consumers head
    Bubblegum rock on plastic transistors
    Schoolboy sedition backed by big time promoters
    CBS promote the Clash
    Ain't for revolution, it's just for cash
    Punk became a fashion just like hippy used to be
    Ain't got a thing to do with your or me

    Movements are systems and systems kill
    Movements are expressions of the public will
    Punk became a movement cos we all felt lost
    Leaders sold out and now we all pay the cost
    Punk narcissism was a social napalm
    Steve Jones started doing real harm
    Preaching revolution, anarchy and change
    Sucked from the system that had given him his name

    Well I'm tired of staring through shit stained glass
    Tired of staring up a superstars arse
    I've got an arse and crap and a name
    I'm just waiting for my fifteen minutes fame

    Steven Jones, you're napalm
    If you're so pretty vacant, why do you smarm?
    Patti Smith, you're napalm, your write with your hand
    But it's Rimbaud's arm

    And me, yes, I, do I want to burn?
    Is there something I can learn?
    Do I need a business man to promote my angle
    Can I resist the carrots that fame and fortune dangle
    I see the velvet zippies in their bondage gear
    The social elite with safetypins in their ear
    I watch and understand that it don't mean a thing
    The scorpions might attack, but the systems stole the sting
    PUNK IS DEAD. PUNK IS DEAD. PUNK IS DEAD

    Posted by Anonymous on Friday, February 9, 2007 at 5:18 PM (EST)

    this album was pretty good. what really killed me is that out of all of the major labels they could have signed to, they signed to sony which exploits little children and sweatshop workers in China. I thought they were against that. I dont exactly think they sold out because they aren't getting a shitload of mainstream attention, but they made a mistake signing to the label that fucking owns the world.

    Posted by dirty_punk on 2007-01-03 22:31:34

    Fucking sellouts

    Posted by JohnnyTwoTits on 2006-08-29 19:05:42

    the day this album caim out, i was babysitting this kid *hes older than i am**and i forced him to drive me to the reccord stoor to buy it, and the fucking shit wanted ot get a from frirst to last cd whil he was thair. i had to kick him in the ballz.....3 times. this album seems to be a little bit moor electronic sounding.. i dont know how to describe it. whatever it is i fucking love it.

    Posted by DaveSanta01 on 2006-08-27 16:41:26
    My Score:

    I'll say this, I put off buying this because I though it sucked. I heard "The Press Corpse" and was dissappointed. I finally got it, and it's not terrible, but not great. I think "A new kind of army" is their best record, and "terror state" is their worst. This is definatly "no new kind of army", but it definatly is better than "terror state."

    Posted by kingofsuck on 2006-06-22 03:37:57
    My Score:

    I've put a lot of thought into it, and I think this is probably my favorite album of the year so far.

    Posted by atomicgarden89 on 2006-06-17 13:35:30
    My Score:

    I think this is probably the greatest record to come out this year. I always loved anti-flag as a kid but now that they've come out with this masterpiece I would have to say they are in fact my favorite band.....right now anyways.

    Posted by 1people on 2006-06-12 17:01:10
    My Score:

    "Using your logic sweet heart thats exactly what Rage Against the Machine did."

    No, I don't think so... RATM got signed to a major at the beginning of their careers and did so with full knowledge of what they were getting into. Anti-Flag was all "Underground Network" and big-upping their undergroundiness for years before they signed to a major. I think RATM has some credibility in saying they signed to a major to get their message out. They were less image oriented, and at least as politically active, if not more so. If Anti-Flag was solely about getting their message out, then you'd think they would have gone about it earlier. You have to choose whether you'd rather have so-called "cred" or a major-label-provided platform for your views, because they are apparently fairly mutually exclusive in the punk scene.

    Score is for the album cover."

    Well see what anti-flag has had major lables hitting them up for some time. but they wouldnt go unless they could get full control over everything. no one would do that until now. and i am glad they went to a major. Getting the word out is the main goal. And yea they said they were the underground and they were for a while but when is it time for the underground to come out and unify. I think that time is now. Anti-flag shouldnt have to come out. Political activism should be a must for everyone. we should be thrilled that we have the oppurtunity to do it. but all of us arent so they had to do what they had to do. keep fighting and push the limits.

    peace love unity

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, June 7, 2006 at 7:49 AM (EDT)
    My Score:

    not a bad album,but why the fuck did they go create a sell out?

    but i'll say,its like green day,they did a sell out,but it's a fucking good and its a band that really's got the attitude of punk,not like ,for example,fall out boy or so

    Posted by kill_fftl on 2006-05-30 09:41:43
    My Score:

    it sucks that they signed to a major label but oh well this cd kicks ass

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, May 21, 2006 at 3:41 PM (EDT)

    Mr. w is gay

    Posted by punksxe on 2006-05-20 11:16:43

    Hey ass hole under me i am going to kick your fucking ass get a fucking life

    Posted by Anonymous on Monday, May 8, 2006 at 2:29 PM (EDT)

    Moron below me: go back to grammar school and learn about punctuation. Your run-on sentences are hard as hell to read.

    Posted by punksxe on 2006-04-30 20:03:03

    This is anti-flag so i have to say it is a very good cd but there are some problems. first off the whole RCA thing is fucking anoying but since there one of the best bands out there i see past that and just listen to the music the first four songs are great and sound like old anti-flag but a little polished off like the press corpse and the W.T.O. kills farmers which both have ska like vibe to the guitar some of the songs on the album are way to mainstream like [this the end for you my friend] which is the worst song i have ever heard along side with cities burn besides that the songs are good but there is a very odd hand clap in the songs which is very anoying this album is no classic like A NEW KIND OF ARMY but it is still good. there last cd sounded like this but the melodies in this cd are really overpowering and makes you forget about the more heavy tracks. the soft tracks would have to be this is the end for you my friend, war sucks lets party, cities burn...... there is a acoustic song on here that is good to it sounds like justins solo work and is called 1 trillion dollar$ but there are still alot of good hard hitting songs like the fast 4 minute depleated uranium is a war crime the songs that are listed as the soft ones ignore or listen with a open mind because there not bad just not what you expect besides those songs the rest are great some of the bands BEST work is on this cd so enjoy up the punx best songs W.T.O. kills farmers,depleated uranium is a war crime.project for a new a american century, and the press corpse

    Posted by miff on 2006-04-28 13:22:11

    however some say the monn is made of cheese they are wrong 1 trillion dollars would be nearer to the truth
    they even added a ping after the word bling

    ooo n they mention depleted uranium tipped bullets n compared it to agent orange but it doesnt sound quite as good if you were to name a band after it

    Posted by miff on 2006-04-28 13:20:24
    My Score:

    this is waaaaaay better than the terror state which i am currently using as a cup coaster

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, April 27, 2006 at 5:18 PM (EDT)
    My Score:

    Oh yeah, Hell yeah they are one of the greatest bands ever!

    Posted by Anonymous on Monday, April 24, 2006 at 3:37 PM (EDT)
    My Score:

    The music and vocals on this album were mediocre. But the lyrics were fantastic. Lyrically one of the best punk albums in a long time. Musically one of Anti-Flag's worst. They sound more and more emo all the time.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, April 19, 2006 at 1:30 PM (EDT)

    it's the best album i ever heard

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, April 16, 2006 at 12:29 PM (EDT)
    My Score:

    Nothing new, same old political lyrics. It's a solid album but nothing more. It feels like Anti-Flag has put out the same record since Underground network which was a really good album. But there's nothing new in A new kind of army, Mobilize, Terror state and this one. Good music, but it sounds the same and has the same message in every song. Gets kind of boring...

    Buy Bombshell Rocks' new album instead. That's good streetpunk.

    Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, April 15, 2006 at 10:35 PM (EDT)
    My Score:

    i hate hot topic, major labels, and this band usually but i highly recommend this.

    Me too.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, April 6, 2006 at 10:58 PM (EDT)
    My Score:

    "Special hidden track:

    AMERICA! FUCK YEAH!"

    LMFAO! that movie is halarious

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, April 6, 2006 at 8:39 AM (EDT)

    wooo germans! tho im not actually german but neva mind...i thought the album was gd but i preferred terror state....maybe it'll grow on me.....

    Posted by rylo6 on 2006-03-29 17:36:36

    eh, germans are cool

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 29, 2006 at 10:38 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    You all talk shit! Non of you know any facts and all suck the cocks of old time punk bands get up to date u bunch of bell ends!

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 1:43 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    The album is pretty good - instruments and arrangements pretty much as you'd expect. One thing I wonder about though, and I wonder if anybody else has picked up on this, is the vocals. Justin Sane's voice sounds a lot higher than previously - I mean he's always been nasally, but the production makes him sound like the guy from simple plan in parts. Very annoying. Listen to one of the poppier tracks on this album, then listen to something from Terror State - it's something that's happened over one album.

    Posted by crackpotdemagogue on 2006-03-28 07:26:16

    No thanks.

    Posted by kingofpain on 2006-03-28 06:50:16

    You lick albums in Germany?

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 6:36 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    I think it is a fucking great CD. is lick it very much!!! (i´m german)

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 28, 2006 at 1:46 AM (EST)

    sorry but this isnt what punk music is about.

    Posted by Anonymous on Monday, March 27, 2006 at 3:05 PM (EST)

    America Rules.

    Posted by Mr_Streetcore on 2006-03-27 09:59:53

    sorry but i find these guys to be way too naive.

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, March 26, 2006 at 10:22 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Anti-Flag make my balls hurt. I would rather listen to Glass Tiger.

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, March 26, 2006 at 7:41 PM (EST)

    "Screw Anti-Flag, I'll own as many guns as I want to. But I guess guns are only OK for the cops and the Army."

    Screw you!

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, March 26, 2006 at 7:40 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    great album.. terror state was better

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, March 26, 2006 at 11:26 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    so what if they signed to a major label, the music is great and the message is clear. Thumbs Up

    Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, March 26, 2006 at 1:09 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    This score is for George Bush!

    Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, March 25, 2006 at 10:23 PM (EST)

    Screw Anti-Flag, I'll own as many guns as I want to. But I guess guns are only OK for the cops and the Army.

    Posted by jamespastepunk on 2006-03-25 19:22:37

    "why arent the devil dogs reviewed here??"

    Because punknews.org covers bands that only 12-year mall punks like.


    I'm no staffer, but my guess is

    a) They haven't recieved it
    b) There's not a demand for a devil dogs review immediately the same way there is a demand for an Anti-Flag or Boy Sets Fire review
    c) They have recieved it, and have about 12 CDs to review still on their proverbial desks
    d) No one knows or cares who the devil dogs are.
    e) They heard the devil dogs CD and disliked it, thus not reviewing it.

    pick one.

    Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, March 25, 2006 at 7:16 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Farmers are stupid, grind them up into food. God bless the WTO!

    Posted by Anonymous on Saturday, March 25, 2006 at 5:43 PM (EST)

    Shit....this is why I don't hang out with any punks.

    Way to fight about everything.

    Posted by LosPeptobismol on 2006-03-25 08:17:01

    >>>Score is for the term "mall punk", it makes no sense.

    Sure it does. Hot Topic is at the mall.

    Posted by LosPeptobismol on 2006-03-25 08:14:58
    My Score:

    I didn't think I'd ever say this again, but this new Anti-Flag album is hot. I'd say it's their best since New Kind of Army (basically their best album since I graduated high school). It's just good, solid ear candy punk. They could still use some help titling their songs though. If there's one thing D4 (and to a lesser extent emo) has taught us, it's that if you're going to use a complete sentence for your song title, the sentence should be at least somewhat witty or interesting. "The WTO Kills Farmers" and "Depleted Uranium is a War Crime" just look DUMB as titles. Subject>predicate. The boy washed the car. It just don't work!

    Posted by PacePicante on 2006-03-25 02:28:47

    My bro downloaded For BLood and Empire.
    I don't think that it is that good
    and Terror State sucks

    Posted by Anonymous on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 10:28 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Ranking my fav Anti-Flag albums

    1. Underground Network..........10
    2. The Terror State....................9
    3. A New Kind of Army............9
    4. For Blood and Empire.............8
    5. Die for the Government...........7.5

    If I botched the names of any of those albums I apologize.

    Posted by rylo6 on 2006-03-24 11:37:40

    i will say this as an american...
    this country is going down the toilet. we think we are so great but people need to have there eyes opened. all these "patriotic" americans have no idea. Bush is lying. The government is lying. but hey speak no evil hear no evil see no evil right.
    what a friggin disgrace

    Posted by rylo6 on 2006-03-24 11:37:31

    i will say this as an american...
    this country is going down the toilet. we think we are so great but people need to have there eyes opened. all these "patriotic" americans have no idea. Bush is lying. The government is lying. but hey speak no evil hear no evil see no evil right.
    what a figgin disgrace

    Posted by Anonymous on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 11:25 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    yes, it is a good cd. yet i think they have done better. i mean they are growing up in the music world and just like AFI and other punk bands have changed, but i have to give props because even w/ music growth they have tried to stick to there punk rock roots as much as possible so respect them 4 that.

    Posted by Anonymous on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 10:58 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    i hate hot topic, major labels, and this band usually but i highly recommend this.

    Posted by notfeelingcreative on 2006-03-24 09:45:40
    My Score:

    Score is for the term "mall punk", it makes no sense.

    Posted by Anonymous on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 9:39 AM (EST)

    "why arent the devil dogs reviewed here??"

    Because punknews.org covers bands that only 12-year mall punks like.

    Posted by Anonymous on Friday, March 24, 2006 at 12:15 AM (EST)

    Man fuck all you pieces of shit if you think america is so fucking great there mr nanaimo go fucking move there and fuck your good fucking buddy dubya up the ass while your there seriously look at the bullshit america has put the world in so fuck you guys all of you americans and all you supposed Canadians who support them fuck you all and by the way nanaimo is a fucking shit town fuck you all fuck you and your fucking nanaimo and your fucking america seriously oh and by the way I don't fucking watch american cartoons so fuck you.

    Posted by Not-To-Regret on 2006-03-24 00:01:31
    My Score:

    Yeah, that ignorant asshole from BC is being just as bul- headed as Dubya himself. I'm from Nanaimo BC and I apologize to all americans for his comments... he's shitting on America yet most of the best music, TV, movies etc... comes from america and only 51% of those who actually voted support Bush. America is full of amazing and creative people. I'm not a big Anti-Flag fan in the least, in fact I criticize their music often, but my roommate and best friend are Anti-Flag fans, who am I to say they are wrong? Bottom line is we all have different tastes, and when something becomes mainstream those different tastes turn into unwarrented biases...

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 11:52 PM (EST)

    Please disregard that asshole as he does not stand for Canada in any way shape or form. On another note he does make a good point about the whole not arguing and people's opinions things.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 10:46 PM (EST)

    amen

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 10:42 PM (EST)

    I have nothing against canada. but seriously, comments like that just make your entire country look ignorant, low class, and almost envious.
    "sit here and smoke my BC bud"
    are you serious? do you think anyone can take you serious when you add that in. the sad thing is im sure some canadians are decent people who would be embarassed to see a simpleton like you representing them. do yourself a favor and quit taking shots at the US when you havent submersed yourself into genuine research.
    go smoke your BC bud and watch some american cartoons.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 10:31 PM (EST)

    ahhhh yes the internet another nail in the coffin of punk rock.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 10:17 PM (EST)

    Special hidden track:

    AMERICA! FUCK YEAH!

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 10:06 PM (EST)

    The album was ok not great but ok only really good song was the first one. Wow all the negativity towards each other and shit who cares about what bands are better people should be able to have their own opinions on stuff without getting hassled by other people. No wonder why nothing fucking changes. And fuck the usa seriously fuck america and all the fucking rednecks that live there. Cause at least I can sit here in my fucking Canadian igloo and smoke my fuckin BC fuckin bud here in the great white fuckin north that is BC without getting beat to shit by the cops and thrown away in jail and also america fuckin blows anyway just look at your fuckin leader another fuckin ignorant redneck so ummm ya fuck america.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 9:09 PM (EST)

    Hey! Here's a joke,

    "Did you hear the one about the best Anti-Flag album ever?"
    "Hmmm, no",
    "Well neither did I!"

    Posted by notfeelingcreative on 2006-03-23 20:26:31

    "Until now" would impply that you now take them seriously.

    Posted by kindofalongwaydown on 2006-03-23 20:03:20

    I always thought anti-flag was a joke. From the NRA days until now.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 7:06 PM (EST)

    oh yeah the comment below was me!

    -notfeelingcreative

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 7:06 PM (EST)

    A-F used to be one of my favorite bands, I kind of grew out of them, a few years ago, and wasn't very impressed with the last record! I picked this up, anyhow, it was cheap! I like it alot, it's nothing new, normal anti-flag shit, definately not going to convert the haters, but a decent effort, a little maturity on the lyric as well! Well, other than "one trillion dollars makes me want to kill myself".

    Posted by rylo6 on 2006-03-23 18:29:57

    ANTI-FLAG RULES!!! and the same as the post under mine and all that.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 6:26 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Anti-Flag is a great band and by signing with this big-name label more people will here there music and the message that we want sent to america will be sent. More people will be exposed to the evils of our government.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 5:13 PM (EST)

    you're such a fuckin loser

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 4:51 PM (EST)

    Do this band a favor, skip this cd, and just pick up "Potemkin City Limits".

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 4:50 PM (EST)

    Oh, sinnerman where will you run to?

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 3:46 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Meh, Terror State was much better.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 1:41 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    "Using your logic sweet heart thats exactly what Rage Against the Machine did."

    No, I don't think so... RATM got signed to a major at the beginning of their careers and did so with full knowledge of what they were getting into. Anti-Flag was all "Underground Network" and big-upping their undergroundiness for years before they signed to a major. I think RATM has some credibility in saying they signed to a major to get their message out. They were less image oriented, and at least as politically active, if not more so. If Anti-Flag was solely about getting their message out, then you'd think they would have gone about it earlier. You have to choose whether you'd rather have so-called "cred" or a major-label-provided platform for your views, because they are apparently fairly mutually exclusive in the punk scene.

    Score is for the album cover.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 1:27 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    i hate this band and i still like this record. good job guys. someone in the mainstream has to go against fox news. fuckin a.

    Posted by MammothPress on 2006-03-23 13:18:15

    "a platform that could catapult them to the spot left vacant by Rage Against the Machine."

    Shut the fuck up.

    There is no reason for this band to be on a major label other than greed. Their message will go unheard by the mass audience. mainstream radio stations, no matter how much payola involved, won't play these songs.

    The 'kids' that will find Anti-Flag for the first time through this release, will be drawn more to the latest mohawk sported by #2 than any sincere politcal message. Who the fuck are the trying to kid? It's all about the money. Staying on an indie would have meant that there message would at least be backed by some kind of integrity. They are making money for a company that has contributed to the state of the present day world, and that's a fact that can't be ignored.

    Anti-Flag are nothing but hypocrites.


    Using your logic sweet heart thats exactly what Rage Against the Machine did. If Killing in the Name can get radio play, so can the press corps. I didn't state if them getting to Rages place was a good or a bad thing. I said they could do it. Go home and wack off to your crass records.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 11:17 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    you babies can whine about these dudes all you want. they are tricking all of you and running straight to the bank.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 10:27 AM (EST)

    why arent the devil dogs reviewed here??

    Posted by sickboi on 2006-03-23 09:33:53

    Anti-Flag has 78,000 friends and counting on MySpace

    ...

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 9:19 AM (EST)

    This CD is fuckin bad ass. I've been listening to Anti-Flag for years now and i have matured along with the band. It's time for all you 10 year old fucks to grow up and realize that you cant make a change by staying underground...it hasnt worked in the past and its not going to work in the future. Targeting a bigger crowd is the only way we are going to be able to make a difference. Anti-Flag has 78,000 friends and counting on MySpace. Isnt it time for those 78,000 friends to come together, unite, and make a difference instead of bitching about how we do it? -JRStar-

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 9:07 AM (EST)

    "a platform that could catapult them to the spot left vacant by Rage Against the Machine."

    Shut the fuck up.

    There is no reason for this band to be on a major label other than greed. Their message will go unheard by the mass audience. mainstream radio stations, no matter how much payola involved, won't play these songs.

    The 'kids' that will find Anti-Flag for the first time through this release, will be drawn more to the latest mohawk sported by #2 than any sincere politcal message. Who the fuck are the trying to kid? It's all about the money. Staying on an indie would have meant that there message would at least be backed by some kind of integrity. They are making money for a company that has contributed to the state of the present day world, and that's a fact that can't be ignored.

    Anti-Flag are nothing but hypocrites.

    Posted by Jesse on 2006-03-23 08:34:08

    ANTIFLAG ARE GAY FOR EECH UTHERS BUTTS.

    There, whew, I said it. Feels good to get it off my chest.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 2:47 AM (EST)

    dis cd iz jus az gud az tha latist good charlet cd. viry revolotionairy

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 2:37 AM (EST)

    "The Clash, the Ramones, the Sex Pistols...all were on MAJOR labels. I don't care what the era was."

    Which is why your point is completely invalid.

    -Will

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 1:44 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    The Clash, the Ramones, the Sex Pistols...all were on MAJOR labels. I don't care what the era was. Just shut the fuck up. No wonder the "scene" gets so fucking tired after a while. Bitchbitchbitchbitchbitch. At the very least they're putting their politics out there for people to hear. Posting your MySpace blogs in your dorm room...yeah, not exactly revolutionary, shitheads.

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 1:21 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    wow, a cover with a star on it. real original.

    STARZ R 4 PUNX

    Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, March 23, 2006 at 1:06 AM (EST)

    "Just got my ticket for Sasquatch Festival. Now there's some real music. This will be my own personal woodstock... except I'm travelling from Vancouver to Washington so I can't bring any delicious BC bud with me...

    -Not-To-Regret"

    Sew it into your pants.

    -Will

    Posted by seclusionrecords on 2006-03-22 22:23:12

    "the best political american band is dead prez"

    AMEN

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 9:13 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    its alright. nothing memorable. probably wont listen to it again. the star made out of guns is a little tired. wish them well.

    wyzo

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 8:54 PM (EST)

    Just got my ticket for Sasquatch Festival. Now there's some real music. This will be my own personal woodstock... except I'm travelling from Vancouver to Washington so I can't bring any delicious BC bud with me...

    -Not-To-Regret

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 5:46 PM (EST)

    If you live in the wrong place in America, you could definitely get a year in prison for just having a half ounce. Fucking ridiculous. This country is so backwards.

    -Will

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 4:54 PM (EST)

    Alright boys and girls.... this is what's up.
    nothing is up, everybody on this piece of shit board(or whatever you call it) sucks. You guys argue about bull shit.
    FUCK YOU ALL!!

    Posted by clamum on 2006-03-22 14:56:49

    Four years in prison from smoking a blunt? It definitely shows you're not from the U.S. nor do you know shit about it.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 2:47 PM (EST)

    My advice to everyone: go out and buy anything by the Dead Kennedys instead of this. Its amazing how relevant it still is today. Just replace Reagan with Bush and its all good.

    -skizot-

    Posted by mikeinflames on 2006-03-22 14:14:50

    gotta love americans who still actually believe the US is a better country than Canada

    how many years in prison do you get down there for smoking a blunt?
    isn't it like 4?

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 2:01 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    good review, although i don't see these guys becoming the next RATM or really influencing too many people politically. but it's a solid album for what it is and these guys have matured. That's coming from someone who is not really an anti flag fan.

    as far as this propagandhi/a-f talk goes...i don't think you can compare them. propagandhi is better. let's just talk music...show me something a-f has done that touches prop's music ability...solos..time changes....nothing? nothing? nope.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:50 PM (EST)

    Good to see such intelligent and well thought out discourse from this band's detractors. Very convincing arguments.

    Biggest fags on the planet, indeed. It's nice to see something taking time to break down the problems and point out what's wrong instead of random insults and petty childish name calling.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:27 PM (EST)

    let me guess their excuse for going major is probably "well we want to get our message out to more people"

    LOL what message, bunch of fucktards

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:25 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    FUCK BUSH! FUCK FASCISM! FUCK THE WORLD!!!

    now throw in the WAOO WAOOs and you've got yourself some brilliant political music

    AM I RITE

    biggest fags on the planet how can you give this shit a good rating

    Posted by LevitateMe on 2006-03-22 13:21:02

    The spelling was bad and you're dumb says the entire Canadian race.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:19 PM (EST)

    "Propagandhi are canadian??? thats fucked up
    so thats where they're sucking from"

    you know thats racist,

    anyways, why did AF go to RCA (i dont feel like reading the interview) AF sucks thats all there is to it, there a terrible band they are hipacrits* and there for 13 - 16 year olds that are just getting into this music, to compare propagandhi to AF is like funny because propagandhi kicks AF's face in. when i put on less talk more rock for the first time like a month ago i was blown away and it remided me why i listend to the music in the first place, when i put on the terror state on like three months ago i was sad cause i thought it was gonna be better (i should learn not to expct to much)

    i havent even listend to this record but if its any thing like anti-flag
    its Bad

    sorry for the bad spelling, DONT POST A WHOLE BUNCH OF COMMENTS SAYN' THAT THE SPELLING WAS BAD AND THAT IM DUMB

    Posted by ElVaquero on 2006-03-22 13:10:56

    Argue about the music all you want, but I think we should all be glad that Anti-Flag is putting their money where their mouth is by actually organizing efforts to enact a positive change.

    Banning depleted uranium doesn't seem like a partisan issue, it's something everyone can and SHOULD get behind once they have the information that these guys are providing.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 10:15 AM (EST)

    Propagandhi are canadian??? thats fucked up
    so thats where they're sucking from... ok i get the connection
    ok, Propagandhi being better than anti-flag is just an opinion morons not a fucking fact, so shhhhhhh

    Posted by weisenflap on 2006-03-22 09:23:50

    after listening to this a few times, i think the terror state was waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay better.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 6:04 AM (EST)

    "Depleted Uranium Is a War Crime" is that track.

    Twat. Twat. Twat.

    - Gunner

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 6:03 AM (EST)

    I didn't do the guest vocals on any of the tracks, you little twat...except one.

    - Gunner

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 3:32 AM (EST)

    Hey Gunner, if you're reading this, what song(s) did you do guest vocals on? I can't really tell. None of the backups are really recognizable, which I found kind of surprising since I listen to all the bands the guest vocalists are from.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 3:10 AM (EST)

    Just like my attempt at spelling "past" correctly.
    Actually,fuck that. In the "true spirit" of punk rock I refuse to conform to your close-minded notions of how that word should be spelt. I stand by my original comment.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 3:07 AM (EST)

    I think it was someone's attempt at being funny. It "got passed" everyone because they failed.

    Posted by 8dollarclarinetsolo on 2006-03-22 02:48:09

    "Perfect album. Every musical move these guys make on this record is amazing. Quality, content, message. Amazing effort and energy.

    On the same level as the Beatles in their prime and nearly as good as Yellowcard was at this stage of their careers."

    whoa, how did this get past everyone? what does this even mean??

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:47 AM (EST)

    "the press is taken to task on 'The Press Corps' for their cowardice when it comes to reporting negative stories about the current administration."

    my last statement is in regards to this excerpt.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:41 AM (EST)

    fuck political bandwagon jumpers. dont hate bush because its the cool thing to do. you are sensational idiots. most of these horror stories are presented by liberal officials who wont be promoted until a democrat is in office (the bad thing about appointed positions). republicans are just as guilty.

    do your own research. dont fall so easily into the trap of rhetoric and propoganda. gather reliable information, (not internet sources) and form your own opinions. hate if you concluse to do so. just dont hate bush because its the acceptable, punk thing to do. dont conform to the ignorant embarrasment the punk scene has created for itself. figure it out for yourself. till then, keep quiet.

    Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, March 22, 2006 at 1:31 AM (EST)

    Jane Doe Rly?

    Posted by iconoclast on 2006-03-22 01:26:20

    i'd just like to point out that this album is no "potemkin city limits."

    Posted by Jesse on 2006-03-22 00:48:58

    "I like how you like to poke fun of people with mowhawks, saying they spend so much time with thier hair, when they could be out doing something productive, generlizing them saying thats all they care about.... Your just as guilty at juding as some of the " street Punks" you rant about..."

    That first statement is a joke. Supposed to be taken sarcastically.

    Posted by jumptheshark on 2006-03-22 00:31:05

    Jesse makes some good points for sure, and I definitely don't think Anti-Flag is the best political band out there, but there is something in me that really enjoys what some people would call the "trite sloganeering"...I'm a sucker for great sing a longs and if they have a good message in them, even better.

    I also agree that Jesse seems to overanalyze music. Not to say I don't enjoy bands with great, meaningful lyrics, but If it pleases my ear I like it, unless I find something really objectionable in the lyrics.

    Posted by Sick_Nick on 2006-03-22 00:29:55

    I like how you like to poke fun of people with mowhawks, saying they spend so much time with thier hair, when they could be out doing something productive, generlizing them saying thats all they care about.... Your just as guilty at juding as some of the " street Punks" you rant about...

    Posted by gladimnotemo on 2006-03-22 00:11:06

    Jesse is right here. I am glad to see that some people might see that there are more than two "political punk" bands in existence. If you keep these petty debates up, you're just an idiot.

    Posted by iconoclast on 2006-03-22 00:03:00

    jesse,
    im not a very big fan of anti flag either, but it sounds like you analyze the fuck out of music to the point where its not fun anymore. lighten up duude!

    Posted by Jesse on 2006-03-21 23:40:38

    People with mohawks need to get a life.

    The time it takes to do your hair in the morning is about 15 minutes of precious time that you could be spending doing something proactive for whatever cause you're championeering.

    I understand that back in the day when being a punk was more of a social statement than anything the significance of having a 'hawk and spikes and leather. But now it's just a played out fashion statement.

    The Ex are great, but then the Dutch have never done anything half-assed. Take a look at legalized pot, prostitution, and their involvement with the slave trade.

    D4, in my book, is the best political band out there because they don't put on airs.

    Anti-Flag in my opinion is a waste of time. They used to be tongue-in-cheek, i.e. "Davey Destroyed the Punk Scene," and "Punk by the Book." Not to mention "Right On." They were light-hearted about everything. But it all went downhill for me when I saw them at the Warped Tour (I was in 9th grade). Before they played "Drink, Drank, Punk," Justin Sane shouted, "How many people out there are straight edge?" People cheered. "How many people out there like to drink and have a good time?" People cheered. "Well, this next song is dedicated to all of you no matter what you prefer and it's about having a good time with your friends."

    It made me mad that they just pandered to the crowd. The song is obviously a satirical stab at being a stupid drunk punk asshole. But they wouldn't admit it.

    I've never been a fan of anyone that takes themselves too seriously. This is why NoFX will always be better than Bad Religion in my book. This is why Against Me! is a shoddy wreck compared to D4.

    That's my two-cents.

    I hope these guys get confronted by a bunch of right-winger fans who don't listen to the words that they sing-along-to. I'd appreciate seeing their moral righteousness flounder.

    Posted by jumptheshark on 2006-03-21 23:39:39
    My Score:

    Nothing real new to the band here, but given my concerns after the switch to RCA I'll gladly accept that. Overall it's a solid album, that is a bit stronger musically and lyrically (it will age much better than The Terror State) than most of their previous work. "Exodus" "One Trillion Dollars" and "This is the End" are the standouts to me after two listens.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 11:17 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    their label says these dudes are 19. haha.

    Posted by feeeding5000 on 2006-03-21 23:03:21

    Will, seriously...if I was gay...

    Posted by Tinner on 2006-03-21 23:03:05

    Can some one please clarify, is or isn`t the parent company of RCA a weapons manufacurer. Does anyone know?

    Posted by Scruffy on 2006-03-21 22:43:39

    Of course this is the Internet. That's why everything is so important!

    In all seriousness, I really just argue because I have nothing better to do. SE Ohio sucks.

    Posted by shawnk00 on 2006-03-21 22:36:00

    i love the new album, think it sounds great!!

    Posted by darkstarm on 2006-03-21 22:30:22

    Will is a petty douchebag who thinks he knows people without ever meeting them. And for that I say fuck him.

    Posted by fistchode on 2006-03-21 21:49:51

    darkstarm has this strange hatred for Will. I'm not that passionate about people I dislike in real life.

    I'm just going to remind everyone, that we're on the internet. Incase anyone's forgotten.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:35 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Perfect album. Every musical move these guys make on this record is amazing. Quality, content, message. Amazing effort and energy.

    On the same level as the Beatles in their prime and nearly as good as Yellowcard was at this stage of their careers.

    Posted by iconoclast on 2006-03-21 21:33:43

    argueing over who is more politically active between propagandhi and anti-flag is just futile. no one knows exactly everything single thing each band does. and besides, both bands are doing what they can to contribute to positive social change, and i think that is easy to overlook once you start comparing the bands. musically and lyrically i think propagandhi is by far (very very far) superior. anti flag does seem childish and whiney and hard for me to take seriously most of the time. its clear propagandhi is one of the best bands on this earth. yep.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:09 PM (EST)

    Fuck Anti-Flag, how about a Boy Sets Fire review?

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:08 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Fucking Awesome!!!!

    Posted by darkstarm on 2006-03-21 21:03:39

    "Yeah, of course, it was on Epitaph, so it must be their best album! Silly me."

    Would you learn how to fuckin' read or something. If you're going to be a pretentious dick the least you can do is be correct in your lame criticisms. Nowhere do I say that Reconstruction Site is their best record. Nor will you ever hear me say that, cause L&L is my favorite, that CD changed my life. And what the fuck does Epitaph have to do with anything?

    As for my band, you can go ahead and bite me. That's what we sound like.

    Posted by BluthCo on 2006-03-21 20:51:23

    I like Anti-Flag but they will never be Rage Against the Machine.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 8:35 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Mediocre music with slick production. It really sounds like something's missing, though.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 8:18 PM (EST)

    What songs had the guests on it, how'd they do, I.E all the a-f records bands.

    Posted by feeeding5000 on 2006-03-21 19:37:51

    Hate to be a jackass, but Will's not doing his job: I think that signing to a major to "get the message out" is just as bad as signing for the money. It's like saying that your old friends aren't good enough, and you need to start hanging out with the rich kids. Maybe they'll let you drive their Mercedes SUV if you do their homework for them.
    Oh, and I got their last LP on Fat, which suuuuuuucked. I LIKE sloganeering, and their slogans were crap. And, when they tried to do legitimate, intelligent lyrics, they were crap. As for "maturity": "Indie sucks, emo sucks, hardline sucks, you suck" Vs. "What now? Now would you destroy the earth/ dry, the river beds. What now? Now in your control, birth and death/ dry, the bodies incandescent in the heat."

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 7:27 PM (EST)

    propagandhi = overrated

    Posted by opened_ground on 2006-03-21 18:40:34

    shut up will

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 6:25 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    The booklet to the Album says there is an unreleased song on MilitaryFreeZon.com, but I can't find it anywhere. Anyone know what song it is, or where I can get it?

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 6:15 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    As someone mentioned before, subtlety is the key to writing great political and/or social commentary songs. "Blowin' In the Wind" far surpasses any anti-flag song in that sense. Propagandhi might be overtly political as well, but they don't reach for the hot button issues like most other punk bands do. (IE: new Suicide Machines, Anti-Flag). Subtle metaphors help create great and timeless music.

    -Not-To-Regret

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 5:49 PM (EST)

    Yeah, of course, it was on Epitaph, so it must be their best album! Silly me.

    And I totally don't understand what you're trying to say with this "get my band a show" bullshit. I don't know the name of your band and I don't see why you can't book a show yourself. I do wonder what your band sounds like, though.

    -Will

    Posted by darkstarm on 2006-03-21 17:40:34

    "Yeah, "Pamphleteer" was really subtle.

    Weakerthans are better than I used to think they were, but "Left and Leaving" is the last worthwhile thing they did."

    Yes, let's base the entire band's library around one song.

    Reconstruction Site was a fantastic record, and easily their best lyrically. That's just my opinion, but, seeing as how they've only put out three records (and to be honest I barely even count Fallow) and Left & Leaving was the second, I don't see how it being the "last worthwhile thing" is that bad.

    Get my band that show yet?

    Posted by rkl on 2006-03-21 17:29:29
    My Score:

    Anti-Flag - For Blood and Empire
    Posted by Anonymous on 2006-03-21 10:15:51
    My Score:

    Anti-Flag makes me embarrassed to be a political punk listener. There is no sense of satire, intelligence or self-awareness. They are self-centered and preach their word as divine truth, not what it is, their view. Even Propagandhi makes fun of themselves on occassion and seem aware their view may not be what's right for everyone.

    Anti-Flag makes me so angry, I could kick a midget.

    - Samuel

    im willing to bet my testicles that commenter has never listened to anything from the first two anti-flag albums, which were pretty damn cheeky.

    that being said, i give this album a 3. to hell with maturity. terror state sucked too.

    Posted by GlassPipeMurder on 2006-03-21 17:08:19
    My Score:

    see this foot in my mouth?

    i have to admit, i wanted to see anti-flag fail after going major. this album is really fuckin good though, by far the best they've done. congrats on going major and still keeping with the punk while adding some new styles like "War Sucks, Let's Party!" and "One Trillion Dollars". only thing bad about this song is Exodus, which just makes me cringe.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 5:07 PM (EST)

    Everyone should just stop listening to Anti-Flag, Propawahosits, and Weakersauce and just listen to the Ex. They have, will always, do more with their music and influence than any political band coming out of North America.

    Posted by opened_ground on 2006-03-21 16:54:32

    ugh... we are not going to get into a debate about anarchy.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 4:37 PM (EST)

    "Anarchy is a dream for the ignorant and politically blind. It’s an impossible dream that can never be realized"

    Wrong.

    Posted by Scruffy on 2006-03-21 16:22:39

    "I think we can all agree, even if for whatever reason you don't see that Propagandhi is better band"

    Yeah, except a couple posts down I said:
    "And this is coming from someone who likes Propaghandi more than Anti-Flag."

    Let me repeat:
    I like Propaghandi more than Anti-Flag.

    I hated Anti-Flag in high school. I still hate their old albums. I hate their look. But, they've gotten a lot better. They're actually being informative, which is what everyone criticized them for before.
    I know what the lyrics to that Propaghandi song about the video game were about. But the bottom line is, in this messed up world of ours, with all the problems we have, Propaghandi chose to write one of only a handful of songs they've written in the past (and probably for the next) four years about how a video game made by the military is slightly misleading. I don't know about you, but I think informing people about depleted uranium is more important than that.

    And, remember, I still like Propaghandi more than Anti-Flag. I own two Propaghandi albums, and not one Anti-Flag album.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 4:19 PM (EST)

    Anti-Flag lives in the rich part of pittsburgh. I am not saying they live there in a moderate size home that they got a good deal on in a good area. I am saying that they are rich cock goblins.

    Posted by ElVaquero on 2006-03-21 16:06:07
    My Score:

    This is a well written review (and perfect for the context of this site). I hope the album does well, I hope the record label actually promotes this, I hope the band enacts a positive change and informs kids. The album is actually pretty good too, I can see them going places with this.

    But it's just really not for me, I never wanted to listen to it more than once. I can't imagine the band ever growing outside its teenage demographic. They probably will be pigeonholed and silenced, but I hope they do some good things with the time they have.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 3:35 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Propagandi is so fucking bad.

    This album is the best I've heard in awhile.

    Too bad most of you are too punk rock to really listen to the words and music. Fuck I hate punks.

    Posted by fallingupwards84 on 2006-03-21 15:28:53

    "the best political american band is dead prez"

    they were the best, but their last album wasn't so hot

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 3:22 PM (EST)

    The only time I realy listened to this band was on their split with the 'Souls. I didn't like them then, still don't like them now.

    I really don't care what your politics are. I really don't.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 3:09 PM (EST)

    this shit is soooooo fake. and all of you "little kids" are fake for supporting this crap. fake. fake. fake. fuck anti flag and all the kids who think its punk to listen to this fake bullshit.

    Posted by skolarx on 2006-03-21 14:48:17

    there was a copy floating around our office and i'll be damned, it ain't half bad. poppy as all hell but not bad

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:44 PM (EST)

    "You're all idiots. D4 is the best American political band, and the Weakerthans are best Canadian political band. It's called subtlety. It comes with being bad ass."

    Yeah, "Pamphleteer" was really subtle.

    Weakerthans are better than I used to think they were, but "Left and Leaving" is the last worthwhile thing they did.

    -Will

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:33 PM (EST)

    ttt

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:26 PM (EST)

    yes new anti-flag just keep gunning down them government officials from your moms SUV's this guys dress like scene kids now and look like they spend more money on thier looks than the combined ages of their fan base

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:22 PM (EST)

    paul your review is the best so far

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:07 PM (EST)

    fart, very fart, if you like political fart with your fart and touches of fart fart and of course the time honered AF tradition of fart, you'll surely love fart. fart.

    paul

    Posted by mediocregenerica on 2006-03-21 14:04:06
    My Score:

    At least Propagandhi aren't partaking in photo-ops with congress men, and at least they didn't write Underground Network and then one full length later sign to a major. Anti-Flag is for Middle/High Schoolers to get their feet wet, and for that purpose, they are the best. They popped my political cherry and for that I am thankful, but at the end of the day I'd rather listen to Potemkin City Limits, than For Blood and Empire.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:03 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    Agreed, this is one of the best in recent years PERIOD Whining judgmental people, of course just once again don't want to get it!

    Posted by jamespastepunk on 2006-03-21 14:01:15

    Who needs DC when I've got D4?

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:59 PM (EST)
    My Score:

    One word sums this record up for me

    AMAZING!!!

    Posted by boba_fett on 2006-03-21 13:56:17
    My Score:

    if this is the band to replace rage against the machine, then mainstream music is indeed lost.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:39 PM (EST)

    "This might get me crucified but I don't care: Anti-Flag has surpassed Propagandhi as the best political band. Seriously. Anti-Flag has done so much to actually try to change things in the world, while Propagandhi spends their time complaining about Warped Tour and the fact that Fat Wreck makes money. Don't get me wrong, I like Propagandhi, but as far as bands with a political influence, Anti-Flag kicks their Canadian asses."

    ------------------------

    Propagandhi is by far the better band...musicaly & lyricaly...
    To the topic "They aren't doing something"
    Well, i believe they are doing a lot of good things, but don't post everything they spend their money for or which "whatever" they support in the news, like Anti-Flag does...
    They just aren't like "Hey look, we are the good guy, we've done this and this and gave money for this, we're so cool"
    They (maybe) just do it, that's all

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:22 PM (EST)

    "There is no sense of satire, intelligence or self-awareness. They are self-centered and preach their word as divine truth, not what it is, their view. Even Propagandhi makes fun of themselves on occassion and seem aware their view may not be what's right for everyone."

    "War Sucks, Lets Party!"?

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:48 PM (EST)

    I am fairly certain all Anti-Flag will ever do politically is get a bunch of kids who can't vote to buy "not my president" shirts and tell their parents George Bush is a murderer.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:15 PM (EST)

    Propagandhi didn't say video games were bad. They were writing a song comparing a video released by the government to get kids to join the army, and comparing it a totalitarian government trying to lure people into their causes through propaganda. At least that was what I understood of it. Plus, it was creative.

    Don't try to tell me a band that has written such stupid slogans as RED WHITE AND BRAINWASHED are better lyrically. Ha!

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:11 PM (EST)

    I think we can all agree, even if for whatever reason you don't see that Propagandhi is better band (musically and lyrically) that, at least, the guys in Propagandhi have never been foolish enough to put their hair in mohawks, wear jelly bracelts, and three belts to a person.

    Nah, for real, though. Anti Flag will never write as cool as guitar parts, as, say for example, the solo that closes Purina Hall of Fame. They will also never write such smart lyrics as the ones in Iteration.

    Posted by Scruffy on 2006-03-21 12:06:17

    "The only problem I have with this is, while I agree that Anti-Flag have matured musically and lyrically, I feel like they are trying to go out and tackle too many issues for the sake of being political. I guess it's better to than all the sloganeering, but not much. And there still is a ton of sloganeering. Too much "look what I know about political issues" on here. Seems forced in a way."

    Yeah, but Anti-Flag doesn't write songs about video games being bad.

    Posted by ThomPunkAheaddotcom on 2006-03-21 12:02:02
    My Score:

    "corporate media can't keep us beat down, brainwashed, enslaved. just take a look around the world and you're going to find that nearly all
    mass media are owned and controlled by a handful of conservative capitalists."

    Posted by sirens on 2006-03-21 11:54:36

    Im glad they are helping make a difference, they are using what they have and doing good things.

    but fuck their music.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 11:54 AM (EST)

    "the best political american band is dead prez"

    Right on! Lets get some Dead Prez reviews up here!

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 11:53 AM (EST)

    Propagandhi wrote Less Talk More Rock in their earlier 20s, and they are now mid-30s.

    The only problem I have with this is, while I agree that Anti-Flag have matured musically and lyrically, I feel like they are trying to go out and tackle too many issues for the sake of being political. I guess it's better to than all the sloganeering, but not much. And there still is a ton of sloganeering. Too much "look what I know about political issues" on here. Seems forced in a way.

    Posted by Scruffy on 2006-03-21 11:41:02

    I've never seen Propaghandi give off the air that their opinions aren't for everyone. Holy crap, read the booklet for Less Talk. It seems like they think anyone who doesn't agree with them is stupid.
    I think everyone ragging on Anti-Flag is basing their opinion on old Anti-Flag.
    And this is coming from someone who likes Propaghandi more than Anti-Flag.

    Posted by mjg on 2006-03-21 11:30:14

    the best political american band is dead prez

    Posted by darkstarm on 2006-03-21 11:25:38

    You're all idiots. D4 is the best American political band, and the Weakerthans are best Canadian political band. It's called subtlety. It comes with being bad ass.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 11:12 AM (EST)

    All the people giving this one star are retarded and way to punk for me.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 11:00 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Hey. I want to retract my comment from earlier. I attacked the reviewer and his review based on nothing than my own poor opinion. If you would like an alternate opinion on this album, feel free to check out my blog review. I do apologize for my attack and please disregard it.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 10:51 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Can't wait to pick this up today!!

    Posted by drewcifer on 2006-03-21 10:46:29

    yeah christ, when is propagandhi gonna get of their lazy drunk arses and save the world through publicity stunts on television with politicians, you know like Anti-Flag and Bono.

    "after this next commercial break Hawthorne Heights and Ralph Klein need YOU to save ROCK music from black R&B artists."

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 10:28 AM (EST)

    This review is full of shit. The Billy Bragg comparisson is a joke. He has never written a song as terrible as 1 Trillion Dollars. This album had maybe 3 good songs, but other than that, it was a total flop. Piss poor review, piss poor attempt from what was once an excellent band. Check out my blog for my review.

    http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view &friendID=18259062&blogID=88309162&Mytoken=12FCD0E8-D16F-A268-11C 66D82B2F59F4810511500

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 10:22 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Also, no matter what you say, no matter what you think, you CANNOT be taken seriously with all this political "fuck the government", "fuck corporate america" (redundant, isn't it) bullshit when you are riding corporate dick. You just can't. Find a way around it, if you are more about the message, do it yourself. Be like Fugazi and have your own label...oh wait, they do and they release shitty pop punk bands but aren't good enough to release their own records...oooops.

    These guys are a bigger joke that Rage Against The Machine, but they don't have the musical talent to even come off as partially respectable.

    Posted by fox82 on 2006-03-21 10:18:37
    My Score:

    Why do you assume that if someone doesn't like this record they haven't bothered listening to it or that they are 15? I honestly couldn't find any redeeming features on this record apart from one guitar lead. Fucking terrible.

    As for the RATM comparisons, that's not a good thing in my book, that band might have had some good intentions when they started, but shortly after their debut record was released they progressively distanced themselves from all that they led everyone to think they believed in. Anyway, these are opinions. I just think that this band has the same conviction and appeal that say the Exploited have.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 10:15 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Anti-Flag makes me embarrassed to be a political punk listener. There is no sense of satire, intelligence or self-awareness. They are self-centered and preach their word as divine truth, not what it is, their view. Even Propagandhi makes fun of themselves on occassion and seem aware their view may not be what's right for everyone.

    Anti-Flag makes me so angry, I could kick a midget.

    - Samuel

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:38 AM (EST)

    Stop comparing AF to Propagahndi. There are good and bad things about both bands but overall, they have ALWAYS been different. And to the complete retard, quit comparing them to the Lawrence Arms.

    Posted by fistchode on 2006-03-21 09:29:49

    Propagandhi wrote one line about Warped Tour in an album where they talk about so many serious issues. The fact that the line has gotten so much attention and is focused on is pathetic. So anyone who says "all they do is blast things like Warped Tour" is a complete fucking moron.

    Attack Propagandhi all you want. I'm sure they've been fuckhead dickshits, and that they will again. But please, with some thought behind it. They're grassroots activists. If you think their method if activism is wrong, why not spell out why you think grassroots activism is wrong. I think it's a lot better to reach people through alternative means of communication, and just because these means of communication aren't widely shown in mainstream means of communication, doesn't mean they don't exist, and definitely doesn't mean they don't have an affect upon people.

    I haven't heard this album, and have nothing against the band. I didn't like the Terror State though.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:13 AM (EST)

    haven't heard it yet, but i'm nervously excited for it

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:06 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Great review, totally agree.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:06 AM (EST)

    Great review, totally agree.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 9:05 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Great Review... Anarchy is a dream for the ignorant and politically blind. It’s an impossible dream that can never be realized. Good to know that A-F have moved on from that.

    Posted by FredPhelps on 2006-03-21 09:04:01
    My Score:

    it's not terrible, just feels so trite - I dunno, maybe I'm getting old.

    Posted by OverDefined on 2006-03-21 08:35:58

    ...and then come the comments from people who had their minds made up before reading the review or hearing the record....

    Posted by fox82 on 2006-03-21 07:57:21

    Populist drivel.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 7:06 AM (EST)

    is this shit gettning radio play?

    Posted by SlackMFr on 2006-03-21 06:10:28

    I agree with Archangel. Fuck these poofs!

    Posted by dolorBrigand on 2006-03-21 05:02:04
    My Score:

    I can't get enough of this album, it's everything AF has always been and so much more. I'm impressed to say the least.

    Posted by almostpunkenough on 2006-03-21 04:33:00
    My Score:

    a goddamn fine effort, my second favorite A-F cd. i think the less poppy songs are actually the best though.

    Posted by tahoejeff on 2006-03-21 03:59:40

    This album is great, I couldn't care less what label they're on. Press Corps is such a good song.

    Posted by Tinner on 2006-03-21 03:57:17

    "Anti-Flag definetly put more of their time and energy into the causes that they believe in than Propagandhi or most other political oriented bands."
    What are you basing this on? The fact that AF get more press coverage? You obviously know nothing about propagandhi.
    Anyhow, song 1 and 9 are pretty cool on this cd, but there`s a lot of filler in between.

    Posted by Cos on 2006-03-21 02:36:21

    Rehased sounds, rehashed fashion, rehashed posturing, lyrics that repeat headlines and slogans verbatim ("Depleted Uranium Is a War Crime"...comefucking on)---this band has no ideas. I salute them for being a vocal opponent of George Bush (something the opposition party can't seem to do) but that doesn't give me any reason to listen to these songs.

    --Cos

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:27 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    This is quite good. I bought it yesterday and there is no reason to be hateful against AF. After I listened to Blood & Empire I put on Dead Kennedys (Give me convenience) and MDC (first album) and I have to say that they blow AF away, but this release is quite ok.

    Posted by Archangel on 2006-03-21 02:20:19
    My Score:

    This is a terribly written review. And come on, it's Anti-Flag.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 2:12 AM (EST)

    crass > propagandhi

    Posted by usversusthem on 2006-03-21 01:58:41

    I think politics-wise, it would be hard to get mad at either band, they both have their approach and their reasons, and I respect them both for that.

    I just like Propagandhi's music more though.

    Posted by JTravolta on 2006-03-21 01:56:55

    I was one of their biggest critics for years but..Anti Flag has won me over. This is a great record, and I'd agree that Anti Flag does more than Propagandhi to raise awareness and actually make changes.

    Plus, on ThePeopleUnited.net Chris #2 is practically giving away 2 tickets to their shows. All you have to do is have 8 karma on the message boards.

    Posted by DarrenMcLeod on 2006-03-21 01:52:59
    My Score:

    Good album, but I wouldn't say it's 4.5 stars... they need to get more intelligent lyrics and cut out some of the weaker songs before it reaches that level. But definitely a good disc.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:51 AM (EST)

    "Propaghandi run that cool commune style business and are vegans yadda yadda yadda. It seems like they are more about being independent from capitalist society whereas Anti-Flag are trying to reach uninformed people"

    you got it right on.

    Propagandhi is going to stick to their ethics no matter what which influences people within the punk community in a big way. Anti-Flag on the other hand is willing to "sell-out" in order to attract new uninformed kids, and that I also applaud them for

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:45 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    love the new album, way way better than what i expected

    Posted by CUAPUNKRADIO on 2006-03-21 01:24:01

    plus The lawrence arms Warped Summer Extravaganza> Rock for Sustainable Capitlasim

    'well i woke up in Hawthorne and took ocean down to the fairgrounds to see everyone...so beautiful that i get lost in the haircutts, spinkicks and jumps.' just love that line (and fuckoff if its not exact)

    Posted by CUAPUNKRADIO on 2006-03-21 01:21:45

    umm i really despise this band (besides maybe 3-5 songs off all their previous cds which i think is alot) but i really like this cd. no oh!calcuttta! but def not as bad as new kind army and underground network

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:19 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    Another deplorable Anti Flag CD.

    So, so boring and predictable.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 1:18 AM (EST)

    Propagandhi wrote one 3-minute song about Fat Wreck/Warped. How does one song mean they're spending all their time complaining about that?

    Posted by SuperRad on 2006-03-21 01:11:16

    Damn. *they're.

    Posted by Godfather on 2006-03-21 01:09:27
    My Score:

    great album

    Posted by SuperRad on 2006-03-21 01:09:14
    My Score:

    Nice effort. Almost makes me want to buy it...and all their old shit I sold. Looks like their on the upswing. I bet this is going to be on a few best of '06 lists.

    Posted by opened_ground on 2006-03-21 01:03:57

    Propaghandi run that cool commune style business and are vegans yadda yadda yadda. It seems like they are more about being independent from capitalist society whereas Anti-Flag are trying to reach uninformed people

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:58 AM (EST)

    Have you ever seen a grown man naked?

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:53 AM (EST)

    Propagandhi are heavily involved in activism. The difference is that Anti Flag are American, meaning more media exposure. Either way, AF sucks.

    Posted by AcidPolice on 2006-03-21 00:47:27
    My Score:

    "This might get me crucified but I don't care: Anti-Flag has surpassed Propagandhi as the best political band. Seriously. Anti-Flag has done so much to actually try to change things in the world, while Propagandhi spends their time complaining about Warped Tour and the fact that Fat Wreck makes money. Don't get me wrong, I like Propagandhi, but as far as bands with a political influence, Anti-Flag kicks their Canadian asses."

    Wow if only Propagandhi would sign to a major, completley contridict everything they stood for and start making shitty sloganering pop punk. Then only! will they be as good as anti-flag.

    Posted by MammothPress on 2006-03-21 00:45:52

    the shot at rise against is more a response to bitching from punks about the "emo" song they put on their last record. I love rise against.

    Posted by the_other_scott on 2006-03-21 00:41:15

    This might get me crucified but I don't care: Anti-Flag has surpassed Propagandhi as the best political band. Seriously. Anti-Flag has done so much to actually try to change things in the world, while Propagandhi spends their time complaining about Warped Tour and the fact that Fat Wreck makes money. Don't get me wrong, I like Propagandhi, but as far as bands with a political influence, Anti-Flag kicks their Canadian asses.



    Propagandhi is definetly the superior band as far as making music. but Anti-Flag definetly put more of their time and energy into the causes that they believe in than Propagandhi or most other political oriented bands. i just don't like their music that much.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:39 AM (EST)

    To the douche who argues that Anti-Flag has surpassed Propagandi: you're a fucking moron. If you have any intelligence at all you would see that Propagandhi's latest CD kicks Anti-Flags newest CD's ass, both lyrically and musically. Anti-Flag comes across as childish and whiney. While Propagandhi's latest lyrics are more subtle, they contain much more substance than Anti-Flag's.

    Posted by colin on 2006-03-21 00:36:46

    this lags a bit towards the center, but a solid album all around.

    one trillion dollars fucking sucks, though.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:34 AM (EST)

    No you jackass, they are politically inclined, tard.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:31 AM (EST)
    My Score:

    This might get me crucified but I don't care: Anti-Flag has surpassed Propagandhi as the best political band. Seriously. Anti-Flag has done so much to actually try to change things in the world, while Propagandhi spends their time complaining about Warped Tour and the fact that Fat Wreck makes money. Don't get me wrong, I like Propagandhi, but as far as bands with a political influence, Anti-Flag kicks their Canadian asses.

    Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, March 21, 2006 at 12:27 AM (EST)

    Are the members of Anti-Flag anarchists?

    Posted by aubin on 2006-03-21 00:27:26
    My Score:

    Great album, definitely a good progression from The Terror State.

    Good Clash-inspired, anthemic punk rock with a conscience.

    Posted by skaboom on 2006-03-21 00:27:07

    "and even incorporating elements of folk, ska and `80s hardcore into the band's already powerful bag of tricks."

    OMGOMG

    Posted by kingofpain on 2006-03-21 00:24:47
    My Score:

    This is my favorite Anti-Flag album so far.

    Posted by fallingupwards84 on 2006-03-21 00:24:25

    this cd is much much better than their last one

    although the cover art shown here sucks compared to the alternative one

    Posted by gladimnotemo on 2006-03-21 00:23:43
    My Score:

    Yawn. Pittsburgh does better than this.

    Posted by jamespastepunk on 2006-03-21 00:22:48

    *gotta

    Edit button, where art thou?

    Posted by jamespastepunk on 2006-03-21 00:22:18

    Shots at Rise Against aside in the review, I gota agree: this CD is the fucking jam.

    Posted by FuckYouOiOiOi on 2006-03-21 00:21:38

    goddam, i gotta scrounge up all the money i have so i can get this at my local record store where, if i buy it early enough, i'll receieve a free 7 inch of anti-flag songs.

    Posted by inagreendase on 2006-03-21 00:18:31
    My Score:

    If you liked the last album, you'll like this, plain and simple. There really isn't much here that's outrageously poppy, but it's definitely solid pop-punk. A little bit of sloganeering, yeah, but it's passable. Etc. I like it.

    Posted by the_other_scott on 2006-03-21 00:17:20

    that review is pretty long, and i'm tired so i won't read the whole thing. please answer me this.

    if i've never liked anything they've done in the past, will this change my mind? i mean that honestly.