A few months back, Turnstile, the Grammy-nominated hardcore band hailing from Baltimore, found themselves in the studio with an extra dose of excitement. It wasn’t about their music, though. They had just received the first samples of their signature sneakers in collaboration with Converse. Guitarist Pat McCrory vividly recalls the moment they eagerly inspected the finished shoes over lunch, feeling a mix of anticipation and exhilaration.
Inspired by Iconic Album Art
The design of Turnstile’s sneakers draws inspiration from the dreamy, Schauss-pink cover art of their 2021 album, “Glow On.” Each sneaker embodies the essence of a Turnstile song, translated into footwear. The Chuck 70 features a sleek black monochromatic silhouette with off-black translucent details and a reflective printed graphic, exuding simplicity and elegance. On the other hand, the One Star design boasts a white leather base adorned with glitter-filled pink stars and embossed song lyrics on the sole, offering a bolder statement.
A Long-Awaited Collaboration
For Turnstile, collaborating with Converse was a long-anticipated opportunity. Vocalist Brendan Yates reminisces about the band’s longstanding relationship with Converse, dating back to their early touring days when the brand would provide them with shoes for the road. What started as a casual idea eventually materialized into a full-fledged collaboration, marking a significant milestone for the band.
Blending Punk Ethos with Personal Style
The iconic Chuck Taylors have a storied history in punk rock, making them a natural fit for Turnstile’s ethos and personal style. Renowned figures like Sid Vicious and Patti Smith have cemented the sneaker’s place in music lore. Turnstile’s unique blend of punk attitude and sartorial flair positions them perfectly to reinterpret the classic silhouette. Their ability to transcend genre expectations, as showcased by their eclectic Grammy red carpet appearances, speaks volumes about their confidence and creativity.
Elevating Sneaker Design with Personal Touches
Despite their lack of experience in shoe design, Turnstile approached the collaboration with a clear vision and a keen eye for detail. Frontman Brendan Yates emphasizes the significance of the collaboration beyond the shoes themselves, highlighting the symbolic value and sentimental attachment associated with the project. The band’s thoughtful additions and subtle details transformed the sneakers into coveted collector’s items, appealing to both Turnstile fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
Resonating with Fans and Collectors
Turnstile’s unconventional approach to sneaker design paid off, with both models quickly selling out on the Converse website. Drummer Daniel Fang reflects on the band’s artistic process, likening it to their approach to creating music. Despite the complexities and pressures that come with growing fame, Turnstile remains unapologetically true to their vision, continuing to push boundaries and resonate with audiences worldwide.
As Turnstile’s journey unfolds, their collaboration with Converse serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to artistic expression and fearless innovation.
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