In this episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger welcomes Cristóbal, frontman of the rising Caribbean punk band KRONA. Known for blending hardcore urgency with reggae grooves and Caribbean rhythms, KRONA is carving out a bold new space in global punk. With their explosive single The Weasel Strut released on October 10 and their highly anticipated debut album Dead Air Diaries arriving November 22, the band is pushing boundaries with music that is both deeply personal and unapologetically political.

Cristóbal traces KRONA’s origins back to friendships forged in the Dominican Republic’s underground punk scene. He shares how early influences like Rancid, NOFX, Pennywise, and Social Distortion mixed with Caribbean sounds such as merengue, bachata, salsa, and reggaetón to create KRONA’s distinctive sound. The band’s collaborative process—especially with drummer Chino of Zeta—infuses a fresh avant-garde energy into their songwriting. Tracks like Caribbean Winter, Take Him All, and The Weasel Strut showcase their ability to turn personal experiences into political statements, tackling topics from colonial legacies to systemic constraints on creativity, to the tragedy of global conflict.

The conversation also dives into the changing music industry. Cristóbal reflects on the tension between content creation and authentic artistry, emphasizing KRONA’s commitment to touring and real-world fan connection over chasing algorithms. “Make the music for myself,” he says, “and if people like it, that’s good. If they don’t, I don’t care.” For KRONA, playing 52 shows in 58 days is more meaningful than building followers who may never attend a gig. The band is committed to releasing a new album every year to keep momentum alive, while staying true to their values.

Cristóbal opens up about his personal protest—turning experiences like confronting hate at shows into music that resonates without being preachy. He highlights the importance of vinyl and physical albums as artifacts that capture time and memory, preserving authenticity in a digital age. Looking ahead, KRONA is already preparing their second album, planning tours, and setting their sights on stages like Punk Rock Bowling. Cristóbal also shares a dream collaboration with Trent Reznor, praising Nine Inch Nails for their unmatched live experience and artistic innovation.

This episode is more than an interview—it’s a manifesto on why authenticity, vulnerability, and cultural pride still matter in punk rock. Whether you’re drawn to the politics, the rhythms, or the passion, KRONA is a band you need to know. Support them by grabbing Dead Air Diaries on vinyl, catching them on tour, and joining the movement of Caribbean punk that’s here to stay

#caribbean #krona #DeadAirDiaries #MusicInterview #AuthenticityInMusic #punk #punkrock

Website
Instagram
TikTok
Merch
Tour Dates

#MotleyCrue #Poison #GunsNRoses #Rancid #NOFX #Pennywise #SocialDistortion #DeathByStereo #StrungOut #Belvedere #LaArmada #Zeta #CoDefendants #EZBand #TheSmiths #PiñataProtest #LessThanJake #NineInchNails #Tool #Puscifer #APerfectCircle #SmashingPumpkins #AliceInChains #GunsNRoses #Paris #FatMike #MattFreeman #TrentReznor #BenFolds #LindsayKraft #Nirvana #taylorswift