Ukrainian progressive metal band Jinjer has made a striking return with their latest album, Duél, pushing the boundaries of their genre to new, exhilarating heights. Building on the success of their previous releases, this new offering showcases the band’s growth and unrelenting creative energy.
From the opening track “Tantrum,” it’s evident that Jinjer is operating at the peak of their musical abilities. Frontwoman Tatiana Shmayluk delivers an impressive vocal performance, effortlessly switching between soaring clean vocals and powerful guttural growls that leave a lasting impact. The band’s instrumental talents are equally remarkable, with drummer Vlad Ulasevich, guitarist Roman Ibramkhalilov, and bassist Eugene Abdukhanov displaying exceptional skill and chemistry throughout the album.
As Duél unfolds, the listener is taken on a journey through progressive metal mastery. Songs like “Rogue,” “Green Serpent,” and “Dark Bile” highlight the band’s ability to weave together crushing riffs, complex time signatures, and moments of captivating melodic beauty. The technical precision is awe-inspiring, yet Jinjer remains grounded in the emotional intensity that defines their music. This blend of raw emotion and intricate musicianship is what makes Duél a standout in their discography.
Thematically, Duél ventures into complex emotional landscapes, exploring themes of melancholy, rage, and introspection. Tracks like “Kafka” and the title track boldly confront the absurdities of contemporary life, with the band infusing their music with a cerebral quality that sets them apart from their peers. Tatiana Shmayluk’s lyrical skills shine here, delivering words that cut deep with raw honesty and poetic resonance, offering a profound look at the human condition.
The album’s eleven tracks are filled with standout moments, from the empowering anthem “Someone’s Daughter” to the dynamic and emotionally charged closer, “Duél.” The title track, in particular, encapsulates Jinjer’s artistic vision, seamlessly blending technical precision with an unmatched emotional depth, making it a fitting finale to the album.
While Duél may not carry the same level of surprise as some of Jinjer’s earlier works, it stands as a testament to their position as true innovators in metal. The band continues to challenge genre norms, charting a unique path of their own. Their collaboration with producer Max Morton once again proves invaluable, delivering an immaculate production that enhances the album’s intricacy and power.
Ultimately, Duél is a resounding success for Jinjer, cementing their reputation as one of the most forward-thinking and compelling forces in modern metal. For fans of progressive metal, this album is essential listening—a masterclass in the genre that rewards multiple listens as its depth and complexity unfold. With Duél, Jinjer reaffirms their place at the forefront of metal, setting a new benchmark for the genre.
