Converge

A pitch-perfect synthesis of thrash, punk rock, and other strains of emotional-laden metal, Converge made its reputation in the mid-to-late ’90s, but has continued to write and release albums even as the founding members formed, created artwork, and recorded for a long list of other post-hardcore acts. To that end, lead singer Jacob Bannon co-founded the Deathwish Inc. label, which curiously also sponsors a set of athletes who participate in mixed martial arts. Most recently, Converge cut a split EP with the band Dropdead, and last year’s “On My Shield” single is four minutes of pleasurable punishment.

Updated 05/24/2011