Rage Against the Machine is back and without a doubt still "calm like a bomb." Battle of Los Angeles, just its third album in seven years, is the band's most ambitious and well-produced album yet, and it definitely leaves a deep impact.

Although at times it is not nearly as explosive or fierce as its two previous releases, Rage's mixture of hip-hop beats and hard metal guitar brings a style and sophistication not seen before. Rage's latest album is not only music for the ears, but a masterpiece for the mind, body and soul.

Tom Morello and his guitar are one of the most interesting highlights of Battle of Los Angeles. Whether it's using the guitar as a set of turntables for hip-hop record scratching or conjuring up sounds of a group of bagpipes, Morello's skill at the instrument and extraordinary creativity produce a sound so fresh he can only be called a genius.

Not to be forgotten or overlooked is Zack de la Rocha, the "anti-myth, rhythm rock-shocker," who still delivers the aggressive and powerful vocals that have always characterized Rage Against the Machine. His lyrics are at times a bit apocalyptic, as he uses his style of fire and brimstone rapping to call for rebellion and change.

On Battle of Los Angeles, Rage returns with a political agenda more visible and ambitious than on either of the two proceeding albums. Pick any song on the album and it is not hard find a political injustice or see why Rage feels that they are the "Voice of the Voiceless." It uses the power of music and its position in the music scene to create and use "the weapon of sound above ground," in hopes of creating public awareness of political injustices.

The "political injustices" of Mumia Abu-Jamal and the EZLN are the most frequent themes, but Rage also makes sure to mention the political wrong-doings of the elite, the system and capitalism. Battle of Los Angeles produces more than a number of calls for rebellion and uprising in hopes of creating change.

"It has to start somewhere./It has to start somehow./What better place than here./What better time than now."

Overall, this album is a must-have. It delivers all the ferocity and power of an old Rage Against the Machine album, while also coming at the listener with a fresh and unique style. Songs such as "Mic Check" or "Guerrilla Radio" only begin to exemplify the power of Battle of Los Angeles.

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