Converge
All We Love We Leave Behind
Epitaph Records (2012)
Sounds like: chaotic hardcore/punk
Score: 10/10
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last two decades, chances are you’ve heard of a little band from Boston called Converge. Their unique style seamlessly fuses the technicality of metal riffs and fills with the intensity and speed of traditional hardcore/punk. Converge’s Jane Doe is considered a cornerstone in both hardcore and metal circles and I frequently use the word “perfect” when talking about their last release, 2009’s Axe to Fall. Where could they possibly go from there?
Converge’s All We Love We Leave Behind kicks off with the frantic, bluesy number “Aimless Arrow” and it’s immediately clear that they’ve kept sharp despite consistent touring. Frontman Jacob Bannon tries a different vocal approach on this song, using an almost whiney yell fans had only briefly heard on previous Converge records. This time, it is moved to the forefront amidst the chaos brought by guitarist Kurt Ballou and drummer Ben Koller. And boy, does it work. Bannon brought his A-game to the table lyrically again, yelling, “To live the life you want/you’ve abandoned those in need/a necessary casualty/or so you believe.” From here, listeners are treated to three tracks of the nonstop, brutal intensity they’ve come to expect from Converge.
Things slow down a bit in “Sadness Comes Home,” an album highlight and one of my favorite tracks released this year. It starts off with another bluesy riff that weaves through groovy breaks and neck-breaking chugs. This is where it becomes clear that the songs on AWLWLB are really meant to be experienced in a live setting.
The band has developed unprecedented chemistry and songwriting skill over the years, as showcased in the quick “Veins and Veils,” the beautiful doom-inspired “Coral Blue,” and the album’s title track. There are no guest spots like on previous Converge records…it’s only the band: at their most raw and pure state. Each member of the band steps into the limelight when they need to, and out when they should.
All We Love We Leave Behind is an immensely satisfying, logical follow-up to Axe to Fall. Converge continues to inspire musicians with insane guitar riffs, sly drum fills, solid lyrics, and innovative bass parts. I couldn’t find a flaw here, and it has definitely made my top ten list for 2012.
-Ian Caramanzana
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