Hed PE released their eighth studio album, Truth Rising, back on October 26th. Truth Rising continues Hed PE’s recent string of socio-political themed music which started with the 2006 release Back 2 Base X. Each release since Back 2 Base X has garnered Hed PE more and more momentum, and Truth Rising has proven no different. Hed PE’s 2007 release Insomnia and 2009 release New World Orphans both spent a week on the Billboard’s Hard Rock Albums and Independent Albums charts. Truth Rising has already spent two weeks on each of these charts, peaking at seven and 13 respectively.

Hed PE’s lead vocalist, Jared Gomes, commented in a press release about Truth Rising “The title is a statement about how in these days and times, more and more hidden knowledge is coming to the surface.” This becomes extremely evident with the lyrics from the album’s first track, “Truth Rising.” The title track contains lines like “No more secrets, no more lies” and “Destruction of the corporate corruption, feel my aggression now.” The song goes on to warn “We lead the way, we forward go… You can’t stop us now.” Gomes makes the “Truth Rising” lyrics come to life with his in your face style vocals which double as rebellious yells.

“No Rest for the Wicked,” “Forward Go,” “Bad News,” and “No More Secrets” are all tracks which continue to build upon the album’s socio-political theme. “Bad News” addresses the need for change with the lines “We’re so tired of all the bad news. We’re sick and tired of you and your lies.” “No More Secrets” advises to rid the liars from office with the lyric “Make a choice, make a decision, make a difference.” This can easily be inferred to mean vote out corrupt politicians. By making the decision to vote corrupt politicians out of office, you send a strong message to your representatives that you will not stand idly by and be taken advantage of.

Beyond the empowering message Truth Rising sends, Hed PE showcase their extensive musical talents. The group’s ability to easily transcend a single genre and create music which fans from multiple genres can enjoy proves remarkable. “This Fire” is my personal favorite from Truth Rising. In a day where music concentrates heavily on vocals, “This Fire” provides a refreshing break from the norm. At one point in “This Fire” there’s over a minute of straight instrumentals. This part of the song captures your attention with different sounds and riffs. Additionally, Gomes uses “This Fire” to demonstrate how pitch can influence music. Gomes’ change in pitch for the lyrics “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine” will keep those words lingering in your mind well after the song is over.

The only complaint I have about Truth Rising is some of the overly profane lyrics. Perhaps I’m out of touch with today’s generation but I feel lyrics like “Rape this 90 pounder. Damn! I grab her by the throat, rope, choke, hold and pound her” (from “Takeover”) and “I just wanna grab your throat and choke ya” (from “Menina”) are unnecessary. Such profane lyrics should be reserved for bad musicians who otherwise couldn’t create notable music. Hed PE has way too much musical talent to be resorting to these kinds of lame tactics.

Despite the overly profane lyrics used in a few select songs, Truth Rising has a lot to offer. The general message Hed PE sends about getting involved in socio-political matters is an admirable one. Whether or not you agree with Hed PE’s views, you should still get involved. Musically, Truth Rising contains enough variety to provide something to enjoy for everyone.