Alcatraz Line up: 2021, 2024

Originally formed in 2009, Ukrainian metalcore heroes Jinjer refer to 2010 as their inception year with the arrival of frontwoman Tatiana Shmalyuk. Musically they already had their ducks in a row with a formula that can best be described as progressive, modern metalcore but Tatiana added the X-factor that was previously lacking. With vocal abilities ranging from graceful clean and emotional vocals to a roar that will scare the mane off an adult lion, she is one of the main reasons why Jinjer are hot, a popularity they’ve earned through a strict work ethic and elaborate touring. ‘Macro’ included funk, jazz and reggae influences and was named one of the 50 top albums of 2019. One year later they made their Australian debut and their Melbourne show made such an impression that the recording of that gig was later released as a live album. Mere days after their 2021 Alcatraz debut, they dropped ‘Wallflowers’, a single-minded album that refuses to capitalise on Jinjer’s growing success. On the contrary, it is less accessible than its predecessors and they deserve praise for making the kind of music they themselves love to hear instead of catering to trends.