Alright, metalheads, buckle up because Jinjer just unleashed a face-melting assault on the HMAC last Thursday, and we’re still picking up the pieces of our blown minds. This Ukrainian powerhouse proved once again why they’re the reigning champions of progressive metal with a set that was equal parts brutality and finesse.
But before Jinjer took the stage, the audience was treated to a blistering set by the rising Japanese metalcore sensation, Hanabie. These Harajuku-core pioneers stormed the HMAC stage, proving that they’re not just a novelty act, but a force to be reckoned with in the global metal scene. Vocalist Yukina’s dynamic performance was a sight to behold, effortlessly switching between guttural screams and clean vocals that could split the heavens.
Hanabie.’s set was a whirlwind of heavy riffs, pulsating rhythms, and unexpected genre shifts that kept the crowd on their toes. Their unique blend of metalcore, nu-metal, and Japanese pop culture references created an electrifying atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for Jinjer. The tracks “Metamorphose!” and “Reiwa Matching-sedai” showcased their ability to seamlessly merge brutality with catchy hooks, leaving the audience both stunned and craving more. By the time they closed their set, Hanabie. had undoubtedly won over a legion of new fans and proven why they’re one of the most exciting up-and-coming acts in metal today.
Next up was Jinjer and from the moment Tatiana Shmayluk’s banshee wail tore through the opening notes of “Just Another,” it was clear this wasn’t going to be your grandma’s knitting circle. The crowd erupted into a seething mass of headbanging fury, and Jinjer didn’t let up for a single second.
Guitarist Roman Ibramkhalilov’s riffs were so heavy they probably violated several laws of physics. His fretwork during “Sit Stay Roll Over” was like watching a master blacksmith forge the world’s most brutal sword, each note hammered out with precision and raw power.
Bassist Eugene Abdukhanov and drummer Vladislav Ulasevich laid down grooves so thick you could spread them on toast. Their syncopated assault during “Ape” had the pit churning like a metallic whirlpool of doom.
But let’s talk about Tatiana for a hot minute. This woman’s vocal range is so vast it probably needs its own zip code. One moment she’s growling like a demon gargling razor blades, the next she’s hitting clean notes that could resurrect the dead. Her performance on “I Speak Astronomy” was nothing short of otherworldly.
Jinjer treated us to a taste of their upcoming drop with “Fast Draw,” an unreleased track that hit like a freight train made of pure adrenaline. If this is any indication of what’s to come, their next album might just tear a hole in the space-time continuum.
The light show was a psychedelic nightmare in the best possible way, perfectly complementing the band’s genre-bending sound. During “Vortex,” it felt like we were all being sucked into some kind of beautiful, terrifying metal dimension.
Jinjer’s performance at HMAC was a masterclass in modern metal. They effortlessly blended technical prowess with raw emotion, creating a show that was both intellectually stimulating and viscerally satisfying. If you missed this gig, you basically missed the metal event of the year.
For those who want to experience a taste of Jinjer’s magic, check out their latest music video for “Someone’s Daughter” here:
It’s a banger that showcases their ability to blend melody with mayhem.
In a world where some bands are content to rehash the same old tired formulas, Jinjer continues to push the boundaries of what metal can be. They’re not just playing music; they’re forging the future of heavy metal with every performance. Long may they reign.
Jinjer Tour
Jinjer
Hanabie
