Gnarly Sacs began as one of a number of two-piece bands helmed by Richard Converse (me) in 2015. Being the one which garnered the most attention and had the catchiest name I simply adopted the moniker and have been writing, performing, recording, and releasing music under the name Gnarly Sacs ever since. The original vision for Gnarly Sacs as a punk rock power duo was held together for a few years. But music is a tough biz and I can be pretty fickle, so these days I find it simpler to chase my dreams alone with my guitar and a trusty, vintage drum machine in tow. 

So far Gnarly Sacs has released four albums, three e.p.s, and a single which have been mostly self-produced (with the exception of 2016’s ‘Sacs To The Max’ which was recorded at Wonderland Studios in Austin, TX). In 2016 and 2017 Gnarly Sacs embarked on two tours, which when combined, span the entire continental United States. Spring of 2024 saw another tour which brought me to New England and back to Austin. When I’m not touring, I can be seen performing regularly at various open mic nights and songwriters’ circles throughout central Texas and beyond. Or busking on South Congress, in Deep Ellum, Marfa, TX, or wherever my songs may take me.

Musically Gnarly Sacs is an amalgam. Seeing the Ramones perform as a teenager changed my life and remain my favorite band to this day. I was also greatly inspired by legendary outsider artist, Daniel Johnston, whose music prompted me to move from New York to Austin, Texas in 2006. I have a great love and appreciation for folk and country and western music as well. Along my musical journey I have shared stages with famous names, living legends, hall of famers, and countless dreamers like me. I have played everywhere from New York’s late CBGB’s to Luckenbach, TX, to Nashville songwriters’ showcases and all points in between. I feel just as comfortable at a dive bar or night club tearing it up with blistering punk bands as I do at your favorite quiet coffee shop or listening room. I watch every show, every performance, take it all in, and create the only type of music I know how to. Gnarly Sacs music. Thanks for listening!

-Richie