The elitists will say that Jinjer is a mainstream band that takes a bit of Metalcore and Djent and tries to give it a Progressive twist. Personally, I don’t really care what the gatekeepers think. I’d argue that the band takes elements that have been massively successful and blends them with more underground influences, making them a great ambassador band for those ready to explore the harsher side of our community. That said, my expectations for Duél are realistic—I’ll have fun, but I don’t expect anything to completely blow me away. Let’s dive in and see what it’s all about! Worst-case scenario, we end up liking it, and that’s not so bad, right?
Duél is consistent with the band’s trajectory, even as it offers a softer side in almost every track. There are plenty of complicated, odd riffs that will immediately remind you of classic Meshuggah, and I appreciate this almost nostalgic turn the band takes. I was expecting more low-impact, atmospheric moments, but overall, the album sticks to the hammering intensity and explosive energy that Jinjer has become known for. In that sense, there aren’t any huge surprises here. The band sticks to its strengths, and while that’s not a bad thing, it does mean the album feels familiar rather than groundbreaking.
There are two main protagonists in every Jinjer album: the vocals and the songwriting. The harsh vocals are as brutal and inhuman as usual, and the clean vocals are good, but I feel like a bit more instrumental contrast would’ve made them stand out more. As it is, they’re kind of competing with the wacky, massive riffs the band is smashing you with almost all the time. The album doesn’t stay still for too long, which I think works in its favor, allowing it to sound less formulaic than you might expect. I did enjoy how no-nonsense it is, kicking off with intensity from the very first second and rarely letting up.
So, what’s the bad? Aside from the vocal-to-riff contrast, which I think could’ve been handled better? Well, in theory, not much. The issue is more that I can’t really tell the tracks apart or distinguish this album from previous ones. It’s a fun album, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not topping the band’s best work anytime soon. For my taste, it’s too Djent and not enough Prog. Like, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but Jinjer could make things a bit longer, just to explore crazier ideas and give the songs more room to breathe. The potential is there, and it’d be awesome to hear the project embrace full-on Prog. Then again, maybe that’ll totally ruin the band—who knows? Risk is the name of the game, after all.
If you’re already a Jinjer fan, then there’s nothing to worry about. The band might have tweaked a few things here and there, but the essence is the same. You’ll get exactly what you’re expecting: crushing riffs, dynamic vocals, and that signature blend of heaviness and melody. However, if you’re still not convinced by this level of eclecticism, then Duél isn’t going to change your mind anytime soon. It’s not a radical departure or a bold reinvention—it’s just Jinjer doing what they do best. . Whether that’s enough for you is up to you to decide.
Label: Napalm Records
Release date: February 7, 2025
Website: https://www.facebook.com/JinjerOfficial
Country: Ukraine
Score: A ferocious 2.7/5.0
Metal Eclipse Reviews 