Converge is an American hardcore band formed in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1990 by vocalist Jacob Bannon and guitarist Kurt Ballou. The group’s sound combines hardcore punk with heavy metal and is commonly associated with metalcore and mathcore. Their recorded catalog includes the 2001 album Jane Doe, which is widely cited as a defining release in that scene. The band’s lineup has centered on Bannon, Ballou, bassist Nate Newton, and drummer Ben Koller. Converge has remained active for decades and is known for intense live performances built around fast tempos, abrupt dynamics, and abrasive guitar work. Ballou is also known as a producer, and Bannon for visual artwork connected to the band’s releases.