Kaonashi: The Final Chapter of the Lemon House Saga

From Metalcore Roots to Progressive Ambitions

Philly-based band Kaonashi has been making waves in the underground music scene since their formation in 2012. Initially recognized for their metalcore sound, the trio evolved over the years, incorporating elements of progressive metal and chaotic mathcore reminiscent of the 2000s. After 13 years of experimentation and growth, Kaonashi has unveiled their latest album, I Want to Go Home, which serves as the culmination of a narrative they began crafting nearly a decade ago.

A Conversation with Peter Rono

Decibel Magazine recently engaged with Kaonashi’s vocalist, Peter Rono, to discuss the themes and creative process behind I Want to Go Home. The album is now available for fans eager to experience the final chapter of the band’s ambitious storytelling.

Connecting the Dots: Thematic Continuity

“Yes, it absolutely is,” Rono affirmed when asked if the new record connects thematically to their previous works. “This is the fourth installment of our story about a fictional high school character. It’s the completion of the Lemon House saga.” The narrative began with their 2021 debut LP on Equal Vision and continued through two EPs released in 2024.

An End of an Era

“It feels like the end of an era,” Rono reflects. “It’s the completion of something we’ve been working on for nine years. Everything we’ve done since 2016 has been focused on this story.” This closing chapter marks a significant milestone for the band, solidifying their growth from amateur to professional status.

The Creative Process: A New Approach

Writing on the Road vs. Studio Sessions

Kaonashi’s approach to songwriting has evolved significantly over the years. Rono explained, “It’s kind of writing as we go along in the studio. We take old parts, we make them into new parts.” However, for I Want to Go Home, the band adopted a more structured approach, including pre-production sessions, allowing for more refined songwriting.

Growth as Songwriters

“I grew as a songwriter with this album because it was actually laid out,” Rono noted. The need for prepared songwriting was essential for the completion of the story, pushing the band to elevate their craft.

Musical Evolution: Embracing Complexity

From Metalcore to Eclectic Fusion

Kaonashi’s sound has become increasingly complex over time, blending genres and drawing influences from various musical styles. Rono acknowledged this growth, stating, “We’ve just grown as performers, as writers.” The band has transitioned from being initially labeled as metalcore to embracing a more eclectic, genre-defying identity.

The Impact of Being Unconventional

Rono believes that their refusal to fit neatly into a single genre has been beneficial. “It’s attracted the right audience to us,” he said. Their diverse sound has resonated with fans who appreciate the band’s unique blend of influences, ultimately fostering a deep connection with their audience.

Connecting with the Audience

The Journey of Finding Their Fans

The band’s extensive touring and performances alongside acts like Protest the Hero have played a crucial role in shaping their identity. “Before, it was me just trying to beg the world, ‘Please listen to me,’ and now we truly have an audience,” Rono shared.

Writing for the Fans

While Rono insists that he writes music primarily for himself, he acknowledges the impact of their dedicated fanbase. “I can’t lie, I write music for myself… but I have that in mind, the fact that there’s a kid in Scotland who has every record or a kid in Fort Wayne who has a tattoo.” This evolving relationship with their audience informs their songwriting process, allowing them to stay true to their artistic vision while considering the listeners who connect with their story.

Conclusion

With I Want to Go Home, Kaonashi not only concludes a significant chapter in their musical journey but also showcases their growth and evolution as artists. Their willingness to embrace complexity and connect deeply with their audience has solidified their place in the heavy underground scene. As they move forward, fans eagerly anticipate where this unique and eclectic band will go next.

FAQs

What is the theme of the album I Want to Go Home?

The album concludes the Lemon House saga, a narrative about a fictional high school character that Kaonashi has been developing over several releases.

How has the songwriting process changed for Kaonashi?

For I Want to Go Home, Kaonashi implemented pre-production sessions, allowing for more structured and refined songwriting compared to their previous albums.

What genres does Kaonashi incorporate into their music?

Kaonashi blends metalcore, progressive metal, mathcore, and emo influences, creating a unique and eclectic sound that defies easy categorization.

How has touring affected Kaonashi’s music and connection with fans?

Extensive touring has helped the band find their audience, allowing them to grow from seeking approval to having a devoted fanbase that connects deeply with their music and stories.