Rise and Fall, Rage and Grace (by The Offspring, Punk Rock)

RISE AND FALL, RAGE AND GRACE, The Offspring's eighth studio album (and first full-length release since 2003), delivers a dozen new, well-written songs with all of the group's ironic wit and punk-pop energy intact. Songs explore the dark side of relationships, self-image, and world events with just a glimmer of redemption and hope -- and that makes all the difference.

There are enough swear words (f--k, s--t, asshole) to rate a parental-advisory sticker, but vocals are low in many of the mixes, and not only do the obligatory rants not take over; they're sometimes barely audible. The lyrics are also so good that this may be one instance where an occasional expletive that you're kid has already heard isn't too detrimental. Some of the cynically morbid imagery ("If we don't make it alive/well it's a hell of a good day to die") and violent metaphor might be disturbing, but if it makes it any better, it's always clever. The deeper, more subtle message -- promoting self-expression, whether in the form of songwriting or any other art, as a way to handle frustration and pain -- is the real take-home value for families.

Released on: June 17, 2008
Label: Sony Music
Genre: Punk Rock
Parental advisory: Yes