Duél

4.75

PICKMETER

4.85

HMB

4.16

CRITICS

band:

Jinjer

release date: Feb 07, 2025

label: Napalm Records

type: Full-length

HMB´S REVIEW

Jinjer, a band formed in 2008 in Donetsk, Ukraine, has consistently pushed the boundaries of metal, and their latest album, Duél, is no exception. The band, featuring the captivating vocals of Tatiana Shmayluk, has become a leading force in the genre, known for their complex rhythms and raw emotional power. Duél showcases the band’s journey, from their early independent releases to their current status as an internationally recognized act. The album makes a powerful statement, demonstrating the band's evolution and their ability to blend aggression with profound musicality.

The album is an experience that is both brutal and sophisticated. The intensity is immediately apparent, setting the stage for a listening journey that does not shy away from complexity. It’s clear from the onset that this is a band that is not afraid to challenge genre norms. What is particularly striking is the way the raw energy is integrated with sophisticated musical arrangements.

The emotional depth of Duél is another notable aspect. What makes Duél captivating is not merely its sonic strength but the way it captures complex emotions. Songs like 'Tantrum' seem to translate the band's accumulated frustration, while more introspective tracks evoke feelings of resilience and hope amidst chaos. Knowing the band’s history, particularly how the conflict in their homeland has influenced their art, adds a significant layer of meaning to the music. The album gains even more significance when situated within the context of the conflict that has devastated the band’s homeland. The emotional weight contained within the tracks feels almost like a cry of resistance, transforming pain into art.

Tatiana Shmayluk's vocal performance is a major highlight. Her ability to transcend traditional vocal limits delivers a mesmerizing performance. Shifting between melodic lines and fierce growls, her voice embodies both fragility and strength, creating a visceral and poetic impact. The lyrics are intense and honest, contributing significantly to the album’s overall power. When combined with the band’s complex instrumentals, this creates a listening experience that is both demanding and highly rewarding.

The album stands as a testament to their ability to meld technical prowess with genuine emotional expression. Jinjer has proven not only to be a force in the metal scene but a band that constantly seeks innovation. The band's skill in crafting songs that resonate on a deeper level is clear. They invite the listener to both feel and think. As in the song 'Kafka', the band delves into the feeling of being trapped in a senseless, chaotic world, stripped of any protection. It captures the struggle of having to accept an illogical reality, perhaps another subtle nod to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

While the entire album is impressive, 'Rogue' is a standout track, exemplifying the band’s ability to create a sound that is catchy, with its blend of raw power and infectious rhythms. The final track, 'Duél', is a complex and grand composition that serves as a powerful summary of the album. It is the kind of song that seems destined to become iconic, encapsulating Jinjer’s artistic vision and range.

Duél shows Jinjer not just following the trends but setting them, solidifying their position as innovators in the metal world. Their journey through various releases demonstrates a constant desire to refine and push their sound. The current lineup: Tatiana, Roman Ibramkhalilov (guitar), Eugene Abdukhanov (bass) and Vladislav Ulasevich (drums); works together to create a forceful and cohesive sound.

In conclusion, Duél is more than just an album; it’s an immersive experience that demands multiple listens to fully appreciate its depth. It is a forceful statement that leaves the listener with the sense that Jinjer is not only a band at the height of their creative abilities but also one that is actively influencing the future of metal.

Review by Troadie - HMB´s Staff