| Norma Jean is not for everyone, but this album is by far their greatest effort to date. as far as vocals, Cory simply can't compare to Josh in raw talent. As a whole, "kiss the martyr..." provides lush and startling texture, tempered with just enough tradition and, well, rhythm. i tend to attribute this to josh as well, since NJ became relatively tame and boring after he left, and his next project "The Chariot" was so far in the other direction to be un-listenable. people seem to hate this album, but i would suggest you listen to it 3 or 4 times without distraction. Yes, it is obscenely dissonant, but if it washes over you and sinks in, you will begin to notice subtle virtuosity in both the instrumental and in the vocals. being able to invoke emotions has always been a true test of good music, and hardcore/posthardcore has long been associated with angst and little else. somehow with this album NJ manages to bring out much deeper, more intelligible emotions from their harsh chords. that alone is worth a few listens |
