Prior to the release of their debut album, GENKNOSIS, I had the chance to talk with Ryo Shinota about the release. Being in this industry for over a decade now, Ryo shared some insight regarding the inspiration and process for his music, as well as talking about the differences between Japan and the United States regarding metalcore. This release may be the first full-length release from the band, but I am sure it won't be the last as they skyrocket to a position of being a household name.
MSM: When it comes to lyrical content for your songs, where do you draw inspiration from?
Ryo: Video Games: Elden Ring and Bloodborne, and anything that is happening around my life.
I know back in your days with Crystal Lake, you collaborated with JESSE from RIZE/The BONEZ, so is there an artist you’d like to collaborate with either on a Knosis song or be featured on their song?
We’ve talked about all sorts of collaborations, but I think I want to take things to an untraditional way of collaborating. Maybe have someone like Nobuo Uematsu to lay down some piano or compose a piece of the song. Something along that line of different!
Is there a country or city you’ve performed in that takes the crown as “favorite location”? How about a country or city you’ve yet to perform in that you’d like to go to?
I like going everywhere, but I enjoy being in America.
Is there a genre that you’re dying to include or somehow incorporate in a Knosis song?
We’re trying out new sounds now, and we always do. Doesn’t mean it’s always going to work, hahaha. Just gotta keep trying. But if I have to choose, it’s gonna be hard techno. I’ve always wanted everyone to mosh to the 4/4 kicks.
I know that Genknosis is going to be your debut release with Knosis. Can you tell us a bit about what this release means to you?
This is the start, and we’re already working on a new set of songs. Finishing one album means we gotta keep grinding lol.
Are there any bands or artists that have inspired you or shaped your musical preferences?
Muse, Finch, Machine Head, and Vision of Disorder.
Would you prefer to play at a big festival or a smaller club show? Why is that your preference?
They are both great, and I’ll keep playing both as long as we are invited. From humble beginnings to epic parties, I’ve done them both, and I would love to keep doing both.
What are some goals you have with Knosis in terms of musical milestones?
Let’s start with a world tour, and then I’ll think about it!
Could you give fans some insight into how the Japanese metalcore and music scene can differ from that over here in the States?
It’s a different setting and surrounding. American scene is innovative. Japanese scene is good at elevating. Japan is very easy to play music, but USA crowd goes hard.
How do you hope fans will feel after hearing this upcoming release?
I hope everyone loves my first debut album! Don’t stop listening to it!
