It’s nothing new in Christian music for traditional songs to be re-shaped by the influences of culture and time. But perhaps it’s the way Koiné is combining century-old hymns with a modern accompaniment that is causing people everywhere to take notice of what some in Milwaukee have known for years. Imagine a 1200-year-old text and a 600-year-old melody, married with a Les Paul, Steinway piano, drums, and electric bass. With their arrangements, Koiné strives to find a unique balance between the familiarity of the classic hymn melodies and the raw instrumentation of the new arrangements.

Originally formed in 2003 as a worship band, Koiné quickly began to gain a grassroots following as requests for appearances and sales of their first album, Koiné (Self-Titled), started to roll in.

Local events turned into regional tours. Regional tours turned into trips overseas. Part-time hobby turned into full-time ministry in 2008. Much of their music has a welcome home in traditional worship, but with a modern sound that anyone can identify with.