Ukraine may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of metal music, but that all changed with the rise of Jinjer. The band’s unique blend of progressive metal, jazz, and groove metal has captivated audiences around the world, propelling them from relative obscurity to metal fame.
The story of Jinjer begins in 2009, in the industrial city of Horlivka, Ukraine. Four talented musicians – vocalist Tatiana Shmailyuk, guitarist Roman Ibramkhalilov, bassist Eugene Abdukhanov, and drummer Vladislav Ulasevich – came together with a shared passion for heavy music. They started playing gigs in local clubs, honing their sound and building a loyal fan base.
Despite their undeniable talent, Jinjer faced numerous challenges in the early days. Limited resources, a lack of exposure, and the political turbulence in Ukraine made it difficult for the band to break into the international metal scene. However, they persevered, pouring their hearts and souls into their music and pushing boundaries with their innovative sound.
One pivotal moment in Jinjer’s journey came when they opened their own “Jinjer store” in their hometown. Selling merchandise like t-shirts, CDs, and posters not only provided a new revenue stream for the band but also helped to create a sense of community among their fans. The store became a hub for metalheads in Horlivka, a place where they could come together, share their love for Jinjer’s music, and connect with like-minded individuals.
As Jinjer’s popularity grew, so did their ambitions. In 2013, they released their first EP, “Inhale, Do Not Breathe,” which showcased their technical prowess and dynamic songwriting. The EP received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, laying the foundation for Jinjer’s future success.
The turning point for Jinjer came with the release of their second full-length album, “King of Everything,” in 2016. The album garnered widespread acclaim for its bold experimentation, unapologetic heaviness, and Tatiana’s powerful vocals. Tracks like “Pisces” and “I Speak Astronomy” showcased the band’s ability to seamlessly blend melodic passages with bone-crushing riffs, earning them a dedicated following across the globe.
Since then, Jinjer has gone from strength to strength, touring extensively and sharing stages with metal titans like Arch Enemy, Cradle of Filth, and Gojira. Their live performances are nothing short of electrifying, with Tatiana’s commanding stage presence and the band’s tight musicianship leaving audiences in awe.
In 2019, Jinjer released their critically acclaimed album “Macro,” which solidified their status as one of the most exciting bands in modern metal. Tracks like “On the Top” and “Judgement (& Punishment)” showcased the band’s evolution, blending intricate grooves with lyrical depth and emotional intensity.
Today, Jinjer stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through passion, perseverance, and a willingness to push boundaries. From their humble beginnings in Ukraine to their current status as metal royalty, Jinjer’s journey is a testament to the power of music to transcend borders, connect people, and inspire change. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll find yourself browsing through the merchandise at the legendary Jinjer store, soaking in the legacy of a band that dared to dream big and make it a reality.
