Review Summary: A classic in every since of the word
Obviously Jane Doe is a much contended album between the site, metalcore fans in general, and music lovers as well. Now seeing as the album is hotly debated, you might think I'd hate this album. But nothing could be farther from the truth. I think this is probably as good as they will ever be because quite frankly their tract record is pretty terrible. So this may be their last hurrah but they sure made it a good one if that's the case, filling the album with grinding anthems and that signature heartbreak lyrical scheme that made the other albums such fan favorites among the metalcoreheads of the times.
The first thing you'll notice upon spinning the album is the heavy almost grindcore intro Concubine. Its a great song don't get me wrong but in all reality, its really misleading. The rest of the album doesn't really sound anything like this at all. I've gotta say though it definitely sounds like a good way to start an album. From here things become more recognizable starting with Fault and Fracture. It's got some pretty sad subject matter but the song itself is a pretty, anthem of sorts with an awesome vocal soaring bridge and cool drumming too. The later song Hell to Pay is a good song despite it's dumb title and manages to sound like a dirty Brand New almost.
This isn't a perfect album however. The Broken Vow is pretty boring, as well as Thaw, but the album picks way back up at the end with the title track called Jane Doe, leading to a heavy dose of good songwriting. Especially some clean singing from lead screamer Jacob Banon. But later on in the chorus he gives me chills with those high notes. The whole vocal performance on the album is great. Over all its definitely one of Converge's best albums and it might be the best they'll ever be again.
