Converge is an influential American metalcore band formed in 1990 in Salem, Massachusetts by vocalist Jacob Bannon and guitarist Kurt Ballou. Known for their aggressive, boundary-pushing sound that blends hardcore and heavy metal, they are recognized as pioneers of metalcore and mathcore. The band solidified its lineup during the recording of their acclaimed 2001 album Jane Doe, with Nate Newton on bass and Ben Koller on drums. This album brought them widespread recognition and is celebrated as a landmark in heavy music. Beyond Converge, members are active in other projects such as Supermachiner, Old Man Gloom, and Mutoid Man. Their notable releases include The Dusk in Us and Bloodmoon I, a collaboration with Chelsea Wolfe. Converge is often regarded as one of the most innovative bands to emerge from the punk and metal underground.