Jinjer to Duel at Norway Rock Magazine
Four years have passed since Jinjer’s last album, “Wallflowers,” and now the progressive metal band from Ukraine is back with a new record that delves into the struggles of their homeland following Russia’s invasion. Through personal tales told in the first person, the album reflects the emotional turmoil experienced during these challenging times.
The music on the album is intense, with a relentless pace that sets the tone right from the start. Tracks like “Tantrum” and the recent single “Rogue” showcase Jinjer’s trademark aggressive style, filled with energy and tension. Unlike their earlier work which had more groove, this album prioritizes speed and intensity.
Vocalist Tatiana Shmayluk’s performances on the album are filled with emotion, from harsh and angry vocals on tracks like “Hedonist” to clean vocals that convey profound feelings with her vibrato. However, there is a noticeable discrepancy between the vocal lines and the underlying arrangements in some songs, especially in the first half of the record. It feels like the melodies have been forced into the music, making the overall delivery awkward at times.
As the album progresses, there is a shift in tone and style, with tracks like “Kafka” and “Green Serpent” showcasing a more unified blend of music and vocals. The musicianship shines through, particularly in the intricate guitar riffs and bass lines, demonstrating the band’s exceptional skills. The album also features more accessible tracks like “Someone’s Daughter,” which could appeal to fans of similar bands like Leprous and TesseracT.
Towards the end of the record, the production and arrangements become more disjointed, with some inconsistencies in the drumming and guitar work. Despite these issues, the album’s strengths lie in its varied palette and the high-quality musicianship displayed throughout. Shmayluk’s lyrics are poignant and thought-provoking, adding depth to the overall sound.
“Duél” may not be without its flaws, but tracks like “Kafka” and “Dark Bile” show promise and potential for the band. The live performance of these songs may help iron out some of the issues and bring them to life on stage. Overall, the album offers a mix of sonic intensity, emotional depth, and skillful musicianship that will likely resonate with fans of progressive metal music.
In conclusion, Jinjer’s latest offering is a reflection of the band’s desire to push boundaries and make a bold musical statement. While the album may have its shortcomings in terms of songwriting and production, it still showcases the band’s growth and ambition. As they continue to evolve and refine their sound, Jinjer’s future releases hold promise for even greater musical achievements.