Tom Morello's alter-ego the Nightwatchman is releasing his third studio LP, World Wide Rebel Songs, on August 30th. While much of the previous work by the Nightwatchman has been acoustic, this record features a full electric band. The debut single, "Save The Hammer For The Man," features Ben Harper on guitar and vocals. The disc hits stores on August 30th.

"Troubled times call out for troubled songs," Morello said in a statement. "World Wide Rebel Songs is an album of rousing hopelessness and this time the Nightwatchman has brought along his electric guitar to tip the scales."

Photos: Tom Morello Rocks Wisconsin Protestors

Meanwhile, rumors are swirling that Rage Against the Machine are gearing up to celebrate their 20th anniversary this year. So far, their only date is July 30th at the one-day festival L.A. Rising at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Other acts on the bill include Muse, Lauryn Hill and Rise Against. Rage Against the Machine have not released an album of new material since 1999's The Battle of Los Angeles. They reformed in 2007 after a seven-year break, but during the past four years they have only played scattered dates, often at festivals in Europe. 

• 
  MUSIC 100 Greatest Debut Albums
• 
  MOVIES 'Great Gatsby' Is a Crushing Disappointment
• 
  TV Why You Should Watch 'Happy Endings'
• 
  POLITICS No Price Big Banks Can't Fix

Song Stories