Converge drummer Ben Koller recently took to social media to provide an update on the band’s highly anticipated new album.
In a post packed with excitement, Koller revealed that the band has penned a whopping 27 new tracks, with 10 songs already considered “finished”.
Koller described the new material with tantalizingly vague descriptors like “Philly mosh” and “Melvins Stoner Doom,” adding a touch of mystery to the proceedings.
Earlier in the year, Koller teased fans with glimpses into the band’s writing and recording process at guitarist Kurt Ballou’s renowned God City Studio.
Converge are set to hit the road in support of their forthcoming release, with performances scheduled at Blissmas 2024 in Buffalo, Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival in Columbus, Welcome to Rockville in Daytona Beach, and Fire In The Mountains in Cut Bank.
How has Converge’s writing and recording process evolved over the years?
Interview: the Excitement Behind Converge’s Upcoming Album with Drummer Ben Koller
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today, Ben! We are excited about Converge’s upcoming album. You recently shared that the band has penned 27 new tracks. Can you tell us more about the songwriting process and the themes you’re exploring in this new material?
Ben Koller (BK): Absolutely, thanks for having me! The songwriting process has been incredibly collaborative this time around. We’ve always fed off each other’s energy, but with 27 tracks written, it feels like we’ve really pushed the envelope. as for themes, they’re not set in stone yet, but we’re embracing a mix of influences. I mentioned terms like “Philly mosh” and “Melvins Stoner Doom” because we want to blend those high-octane, frenetic energies with heavier, sludgier sounds. It adds layers of intrigue to our music.
TNE: It seems like fans are eagerly anticipating the album.With 10 songs already considered “finished,” how does that affect yoru excitement level as a band?
BK: The excitement is palpable! Finishing 10 tracks out of 27 gives us a great foundation to work from. Each completed song feels like a milestone, and it’s motivating to no that we have so much material ready to fine-tune. Our fans have been incredibly supportive, and thier excitement fuels us even more.
TNE: You teased glimpses of the band’s writing and recording process at Kurt Ballou’s God City Studio earlier this year. What unique advantages does recording in such a renowned studio offer?
BK: Kurt’s studio is not just a recording space; it’s a part of our identity as a band. His experience and instincts help us capture our sound in a way that feels authentic. The equipment, the atmosphere, and his production style all contribute to a creative habitat where we can experiment freely. Plus, musicians often find inspiration in the stories the walls can tell!
TNE: Your fans have a lot to look forward to with upcoming tour dates.Can you share what it feels like to connect with the audience in live performances, especially with new music?
BK: There’s nothing quiet like the energy of a live show. Each performance is a chance for us to share our new material in real-time, and feeling the crowd react is a rush.Touring allows us to test how our new songs resonate, and it pushes us to evolve our live performance. We’re headed to Blissmas 2024 in Buffalo, Sonic Temple art & Music festival in Columbus, and more, and we can’t wait to hit the stage with our new music.
TNE: For aspiring musicians looking to break into the industry, what advice would you give based on your journey with Converge?
BK: stay true to your vision and keep experimenting.The music industry is competitive, but authenticity resonates with listeners.Collaborating with other musicians can also inspire new ideas—don’t shy away from it. And remember, be patient. Great things take time, and the process is just as crucial as the final product.
TNE: Thank you for the insights, Ben! We’re all looking forward to Converge’s new album and live performances.
BK: Thank you! I appreciate the prospect to share our journey. Stay tuned for what’s to come!