My knowledge of Knosis stems back from when vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Ryo Kinoshita was the frontman of Crystal Lake. The energy Kinoshita brought to live shows while writing some of the hardest-hitting lyrics ever was something that took my interest and never let go. I still remember promoting The Sign back when they got signed to Artery Recordings in the US (yes, I know I am old.) So, once I heard that Kinoshita was starting a new project, Knosis, I just had to give their new album, GENKNOSIS, a listen, and let me tell you, this release is sure to be a contender for album-of-the-year.
Kinoshita has been dealing with his own personal demons for a few years now and has songs written to represent and tell that story. Filled with emotion and telling of the pain and loneliness one can only begin to imagine Kinoshita has been dealing with, each and every song on the release is nothing short of phenomenal. The best thing about the songs on the album has got to be the wide net of genres they touch. Some songs, like "SEISAI," hit you in the face in true hardcore fashion, while songs like "KURUIBI" almost seem to channel a heavier version of Deftones. Others, like "FUHAI" featuring Yukina Hanabie, make you want to also throw down in the pit but also dance a bit while you call your therapist. With lyrics like "Come and skin my everything / Wear it like your superman / Silence of the lamb, bitch / You’re a fucking lunatic," listeners can't help but feel the chaos and madness radiating with each and every note.
Not only are the songs on the album stellar in every way, shape, and form while showcasing the vocal and lyrical ability of Kinoshita, but also the music videos produced for the album release are just as incredible. Each video maintains a sense of what makes Knosis so fantastic while being able to keep the attention of the viewer. Take the video for "DOKUNUMA" and how it could easily fit as a skate video from the early 2000's or the early metalcore scene of the 2010's while also fitting the style and aesthetic that so many bands from today are striving for. Is there anything this band isn't capable of?
While there is no denying the ability, passion, and talent of Knosis, if there was any doubt, GENKNOSIS is sure to silence that doubt. The only question that still remains is just how far this release will take the band and what new heights they will be able to achieve.
