Converge are the single most aggressive band I have witnessed live. The US hardcore veterans were more frantic and downright heavy than any death metal, thrash metal or metalcore band I have ever seen. Although they’re credited with spawning the metalcore scene, Converge’s racket is much nearer hardcore punk than the chugging, thrashy sound that is considered metalcore these days. In fact, they are probably one of the most important and most innovative hardcore bands of all time. The noise-makers have been going since 1990, releasing eight albums in that time, including the seminal Jane Doe –the benchmark for all experimental hardcore albums – and the recent masterpiece, All We Love We Leave Behind. I had the pleasure, if you can call it that, of seeing their demented live show in support of this last album in Belgium (of all places!) last year and they proved just why they’re considered one of the best live extreme rock bands ever; certainly the best of this era.
Frontman Jacob Bannon dominated the stage, prowling from side to side like a maniac, barking his near incomprehensible lyrics during the fast-paced punk moments, and growling in a death metal roar during the breakdowns or groovier, riff-laden sections. The guitar, bass and drums were intricate and intelligent, and I wouldn’t have expected anything less. The couple of cuts from Jane Doe were the ones that went down the best, with the crowd erupting into circle pits and the like. Incredible stuff! Long may they reign…
Weezer
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