Alternative Rock from Inkakai

Inkakai is a groundbreaking six-piece act based between the USA, Japan and Finland, who have been making waves with their unique sound. Describing their sound as ‘Imperial,’ they pair alternative rock with influences from nu-metal and electronic music, delivered via a theatrical approach.

Each of the six members dons a symbol, with Triangle on vocals, strings and keys, Cube creating noises, samples and keys, Circle on drums and vocals, Gem on bass and vocals, Dot on strings and vocals and Line on strings. Together they form an international collective with an enigmatic aura shrouded in mystery. Despite their geographical separation, they craft a cohesive sound that draws on their shared creative vision, musical talent and readily apparent sonic chemistry.

The band’s trademark black and red colour scheme, mirroring themes of fire and darkness, now aligns with their new name, Inkakai 陰火会 (shadow, fire, society), derived from Japanese legends; specifically Inka, one of the onibi ghost lights representing spirits born from corpses that have transformed into fire.

Having previously collaborated with artists like Max Martin, Steve Vai and Lordi, and featuring in movies such as Priest of Evil and Jade Warrior, Inkakai has enjoyed a decorated musical adventure. Their track record includes releasing one of Finland’s most played songs in 2010 and winning the Best Nordic Song award in NRJ Radio Awards 2007. While previously releasing music under different aliases, they unveiled the Inkakai moniker in 2019 with “The Smoke” and are currently gearing up to release their third record titled Unlite.

Now they bring us their 2022 single “Drown,” a powerful song that blends the wide appeal of pop punk with the impactful energy and aesthetic of alternative rock. Mixed by Tim Palmer, who’s previously worked with the likes of U2, Pearl Jam and Ozzy Osbourne, and master by Svante Forsbäck who’s credits include work with Rammstein, “Drown” sees Inkakai serve up an epic slice of their original sound.

Opened by an airy synth line, the song then erupts with driving electric guitars, pounding drums and soft vocalisations. Slick guitar flutters usher in the lead vocals, threading energising melodies backed by layers of lush backing voices to craft an immersive modern rock experience. Launching into a storming chorus capped by soaring vocal roars and emphatic instrumentation, it’s a truly captivating sound full of memorable writing and punchy energy.

Injecting colour with touches of synths and crafting a rousing breakdown of chugging metal guitar rhythm and blistering solo work, the band charges into the final chorus where the intensity of the lead vocals gives way to the vibrant charm of the backing chorus of voices in the final moments. It’s a sensational track from a band that continues to operate at the very highest level, once again delivering compelling songwriting and epic performance wrapped up in exquisite production.

Listen to Drown below

More from Music

---

Editor Picks

---