Anji Kaizen – Monster (2021)
Merging the power of classic rock with contemporary alternative rock, US-based Anji Kaizen is a force to be reckoned with. Influenced by the likes of Paramore, Chvrches and Lights, there is a hard-hitting forcefulness behind Kaizen’s sound; however, a melodic flow can be heard throughout the singles. The brainchild of solo artist Angela Hutchins, Anji Kaizen came to fruition in 2018 releasing numerous tracks with punk-rock multi-instrumentalists Nik and Jory Marshall (yes, they are related). An award-winning artist, Hutchins has a reputation for strong compositional and songwriting skills. We take a gander at this group with their latest single ‘Monster’.
Featured on notable blogs on a global scale, Anji Kaizen is building a strong international following from Europe to North America. Following the pop-infused electronic single ‘Center’, ‘Monster’ adopts a heavier, more intense melodic metal sound. Combining dynamic guitars, pounding drums and the gritty vocals of Cameron Berner, the new single is far more aggressive than previous works. It is true that all of the artists can play instruments, but Hutchinson’s true talent lies in her ethereal voice. Reminiscent of Amy Lee and Hayley Williams, there is sincerity in her dulcet tones while retaining forceful angst. It is Berner’s metal-esque backing vocals that really push the boundaries of metal in ‘Monster’.
Filled with a pulsating melodic arrangement, the thrashing guitars harmonise elegantly with the forceful vocals. The thing is, while the melody is certainly intensive and catches your breath, it is the lyrical content that can ensnare your senses. Anji Kaizen shares that “this song is our most intense song to date. I [Angela Hutchins] wrote it after being assaulted by one of our mutual friends and having to process that experience. It’s about recognising that we all have our own inner monsters that we have to battle and deciding if we’re going to cave or be brave enough to stand up and face them.”
A soundtrack to a nightmare, ‘Monster’ is a song that can leave you breathless but in a good way. It sends chills down your spine, tingles your toes, gives you that sinking sensation in your stomach, and makes your mouth dry, all while carefully navigating the world of demons. Personally, I love it! Its brutal honesty and gut-wrenching sentimentality have it up at the top of our The Other Side Recommends playlist.
For more from Anji Kaizen, check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
