RISE: The Story of Augustines

Admittedly I'm a huge fan of Augustines, seeing them many times before they went their separate ways. Whilst familiar with the band's backstory, especially the tragedies faced by frontman William McCarthy, the film expertly tells their story. It is a sad but ultimately uplifting story, bringing forward the warmth of the band, and their electric live performances. This film comes highly recommended to any music fans

This is a story about struggle, hardship and tragedy - but ultimately it is uplifting and a celebration of camaraderie, the human spirit and the spine tingling music that came out of all this.

Whether or not you are a fan of the band or not, you should watch this film.

Three days after watching Rise - The Story of Augustines for the first time, I'm still trying to come to terms with the wave of emotions that this film evokes. Documenting the trials and triumphs of the rock band Augustines and its individual members, Rise grabs you by the collar and shakes you awake from the opening scenes. Emotionally charged, heart-breaking and life-affirming, this offering from Todd Howe and Mike Baum is an honest commentary on the motivations beneath the creative drive of the modern songwriter and the struggle faced by musicians amidst the changing face of the modern music industry. A must for genuine music fans and casual browsers alike.

Where to start...

This film is far more than a music documentary. Yes, it's a documentary and yes, it's about music but there's a plethora of goodness to discover in the story of Billy, Eric and Rob. It's, in places, a hard, emotional watch but by the time the end credits are rolling you'll be left with a euphoric glow along with a growing determination to embrace the things you have, forget the things you don't and do the best you can.

I'm sure you may read this and think "It's only a documentary about a band, what's this guy on?". You see, the thing is, and it's OK if you don't know this yet because you soon will...Augustines weren't just a band, Augustine fans aren't your typical music fans, those songs aren't 'just songs', those gigs weren't just gigs...HELL even the screenings of the film aren't your typical screenings.

Augustines were a special band, there story is a special story and if you care about music, humanity, mental health issues, well being, family, adventures and connections then trust me; you'll watch it and you too will think....

This is more than a music documentary.

Watching this film can only be described as life affirming. A beautiful and heart wrenching documentary about William McCarthy and the band, sensitively and lovingly produced by Todd Howe. To this day Augustines are the best live band I've ever seen. They have been described as being better live than Hendrix! The documentary captures both the heart and spirit of the band, with some excellent live footage that gives you goosebumps because you were there. Ex frontman William McCarthy is a great musician and storyteller, he has a heart and soul that touches everyone who is lucky enough to meet him. People who are passionate about what they do, and good, really good, should not be exploited and should be able to make a living out of what they love. Musicians like William McCarthy, Eric Sanderson and Rob Allen matter, because music matters. And if you listen to one album today make it Rise Ye Sunken Ships.