Prophets of Rage

Politically turbulent eras traditionally breed angry, young bands. However, six middle-aged veterans of rap and rock have made one of 2017’s most bracingly polemic albums. Addressing racism, poverty, and social injustice, MCs B-Real and Chuck D retain all their intensity and verve, the latter lacing every syllable with a penetrating, imperious punch. Behind them, founding members of Rage Against the Machine crystallize anger and resistance into razor-edged, metallic funk as if it were 1992 all over again. “Hail to the Chief” and “Unfuck the World” are as zealous as you’d expect, while “Legalize Me” adds an intriguing psych-glam stomp to their sound.