Kohai (Cincinnati)

There aren't many Hard Rock bands that understand the benefits of balancing their volume and energy with the subtleties of ambient atmospherics and melodic delicacy, but Kohai doesn't mind being in the minority. Originally begun as an acoustic duo, Kohai soon acquired the members needed to produce their eclectic and powerful debut album, What We Are Waiting For.

Dig It: A high tea with Smashing Pumpkins and Portishead. (BB)-2005 Citybeat Midpoint Music Festival Preview

Kohai finds inspiration for their debut album in the local music scene By Ezra Waller Wed, Sep 14, 2005:

"Kohai has written a Rock opera, but I'm not sure they intended to or even realize they've done it. On their debut release, What We Are Waiting For, songwriter Shaun Henry filters experiences through the lens of Cincinnati's music scene with a single-mindedness that produces a strikingly cohesive work.

Starting with a vignette of a night in the Rock clubs, the album tackles chasing the girl, getting dumped, rebounding, introspection and submission. All the way, glimpses of narrative have you wondering what is analogy, what is autobiography and what is coming next."

Kohai: What We Are Waiting For - Honored in Citybeat for their End of the year in local Music: A Year to Hear December 28th 2005 - Mike Breen