sg12

The first thing that everyone needs to realize is that Soundgarden’s first single in over fifteen years, “Live To Rise”, was written specifically for The Avengers. While it’s definitely a Soundgarden song, it’s not necessarily indicative of their upcoming full-length due this fall. That said, I like it. Kim Thayil’s fuzzed out riff at the beginning is awesome, the chorus is catchy as hell, and the breakdown/solo craziness in the middle is pure Soundgarden greatness. It’s a great step forward from Down On The Upside with some nods to their earlier stuff and the obvious inclusion of elements from Audioslave and Cornell’s solo work.

If you’re looking for a single on par with “Black Hole Sun” or “Fell On Black days” or Louder Than Love part deux, look elsewhere (And for the record, I hated almost every single that came off of Superknown.).

Just like “Black Rain” did in 2010, “Live To Rise” has me (even more) excited for new Soundgarden especially now with an end in sight (Again, this Fall!!!!!) Check out the single here or below and let us know what you think.