Converge
No Heroes
CD/LP (Epitaph (CD) / Deathwish Inc. (LP))
Reviewed by Graham
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When it comes to new material, there are essentially two kinds of bands: those who stick to a certain tried-and-true formula - with every new album sounding pretty much identical to the last - and those who reinvent themselves to the extent that every album sounds like a completely different band. There is, however, a third type: that rare breed of band or artist possessing a solid vision and identity, but consistently managing to push that vision further and further with each release, refining it and improving it yet never straying from the core of what they do best. I give you Exhibit A.
In comparison to Converge’s last two albums, 2001’s Jane Doe and 2004’s You Fail Me, No Heroes feels very much like a culmination of the best parts of both. Combining the fast-paced, manic assault of YFM with Jane Doe’s brooding, epic devastation, this is a jump up in sophistication and artistry in every sense. Drawing blood right out of the gate with the fast and furious opening trio of “Heartache”, “Hellbound” and “Sacrifice”, it’s clear that the foursome haven’t abandoned their love of the breakneck, crust-infused hardcore that they’ve favoured over the last five years. It isn’t until midway through the album however, when one gets hit with what are arguably No Heroes’ centerpieces: the long and sprawling “Plagues” and “Grim Heart/Black Rose” (featuring an absolutely chilling vocal performance by ex-Milligram/Only Living Witness vocalist Jonah Jenkins). Slow, building and intensely climactic, they demonstrate a heightened awareness of atmospherics and mood that builds on their previous forays into these waters. While the last half of the album resumes the rabid sonic assault of it’s earlier tracks, songs such as “Trophy Scars” and “Versus” are some of the most anthemic songwriting of the band’s career. Unsettling and vivid, this is the sound of the walls around you disintegrating into a full collapse. Another step towards legendary status, and the most daring and honest aggressive album of the year. Pick this up.
Converge
Epitaph (CD) / Deathwish Inc. (LP) |
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