Jinjer Brings Metalcore to Chicago's House of Blues
Whoever assembled this tour package clearly had one vision in mind: to deliver an unforgettable night of heavy metal music. Crystal Lake, Entheos, and Jinjer collectively delivered an unforgettable night of heavy music that fans just couldn’t get enough of.
Fans filled every corner of the House of Blues in Chicago. The main floor was shoulder-to-shoulder, balconies were filled, and even the bars were crowded with people trying to catch every second of the performances. The anticipation was high before the lights even dimmed.
Crystal Lake
Hailing from Tokyo, Japan, Crystal Lake opened the evening with an explosive set that immediately ignited the crowd. While the band is currently without a permanent vocalist, Myke Terry proved to be a natural fit. His stage presence and metalcore vocals blended seamlessly with the band's aggressive sound, making it hard to imagine anyone better suited for the role. Crystal Lake's energy was off the charts and set the tone for the rest of the evening.
Entheos
Opening with “All For Nothing” and “Empty On The Inside,” Entheos wasted no time keeping the momentum alive. Vocalist Chaney Crabb stepped onto the stage with confidence, delivering fierce vocals that immediately commanded the attention of the packed venue. Her ability to shift between growls and precise delivery showcased exactly why she is a respected frontwoman. Between songs, Crabb paused to share exciting news that their new album, Empty on the Inside, will be out on October 23 on Metal Blade Records.
She also took a moment to remind everyone why the metal community remains so special.
"You only have one life to live. Look around… this is the metal community. Take care of one another."
The heartfelt message was met with loud cheers before Entheos launched back into another barrage of heavy-hitting songs, like “An End To Everything” and “The Sinking Sun.”
Jinjer
As the lights dimmed for Jinjer, anticipation reached its peak. Tatiana Shmayluk immediately commanded the audience's attention as she made her way to the front of the stage, opening with an atmospheric intro before launching into “Duel" and “Green Serpent.”
The Ukrainian metal giants continue to use their music to address war, injustice, and the importance of empathy. Songs like "Judgment" echoed throughout the House of Blues, calling out narrow-mindedness and the dangers of indifference while the audience enthusiastically headbanged from beginning to end.
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Perched high above the stage, drummer Vlad Ulasevich delivered heavy-hitting beats with flawless precision. Guitarist Roman Ibramkhalilov and bassist Eugene Kostyuk locked into powerful riffs that helped shape the backbone of Jinjer's unmistakable sound. Their collaboration on stage was just as visually captivating as it was technically impressive.
One of the night's most heartfelt moments came when Tatiana dedicated "Someone's Daughter" to her "sisters" in the audience, creating a powerful connection before the band transitioned back into their heavy-hitting set.
Tatiana herself never stopped moving. She danced across the stage, kicked to the rhythm, waved her arms overhead, and struck dramatic poses that mirrored the emotion of every lyric. Her charisma and stage presence made it impossible to look away.
Before launching into one of the band's most beloved songs, she challenged the audience by saying, "It's been a while since I've heard you.” The House of Blues erupted with deafening screams before Jinjer dove into "Pisces." The crowd responded even louder, singing along, raising their fists, and headbanging through every moment of the song.
Setlist
Duel
Green Serpent
Fast Draw
Vortex
Disclosure
Tantrum
Teacher
Kafka
Judgment
Hedonist
Speak Astronomy
Perennial
Someone’s Daughter
Rouge
Pisces
Sit Stay Roll Over
