Endgame by Rise Against

Endgame is the sixth studio album by American rock band Rise Against. It was released on March 15, 2011, by DGC Records and Interscope Records. A melodic hardcore album, Endgame comprises twelve songs that focus on aggressive movements, catchy hooks, and rapid drumming. Endgame continues a trend by Rise Against toward a more accessible and radio-friendly sound, which began with the band's previous album Appeal to Reason. Social and political commentary constitute the majority of the lyrical content on Endgame, and a major theme revolves around the end of humanity. After a lengthy tour in support of Appeal to Reason, Rise Against began recording Endgame in September 2010, with producers Bill Stevenson and Jason Livermore. Endgame debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, with 85,000 copies sold in its first week. It remains Rise Against's highest position on the chart. The album also charted highly in several other countries such as Canada, where it became Rise Against's second consecutive album to reach number one on the Canadian Albums Chart. Three songs from Endgame were released as singles: "Help Is on the Way", "Make It Stop (September's Children)", and "Satellite". All three songs charted highly on various Billboard charts, in particular "Help Is on the Way", which became Rise Against's only song to reach the Billboard Hot 100. Critical appraisal was mainly positive, with reviewers complimenting the music, and Rise Against's ability to integrate its hardcore punk roots with a mainstream rock sound. Most reviewers liked the politically driven lyrics, although some reviewers felt the lyrics were either lacking or melodramatic.