Rising from the ashes like a gloriously leather-clad phoenix drenched in black eyeliner and glittery nail polish, JULIEN-K remains a testament to innovation and reinvention within the music industry. Originating from the remnants of the renowned band Orgy, JULIEN-K embodies the visionary artistry of Ryan Shuck and Amir Derakh, two relentless explorers of the creative frontier. In an exclusive interview, Shuck provides insights into the band’s origins, the transformative journey, and the ongoing project Dark Mode.
The inception of JULIEN-K traces back to the slow-burning eventual dissolution of the mid- to late-90s metal band Orgy, pointing to it as the very moment that prompted Shuck and his collaborators to embark on a journey of self-discovery and musical evolution. “JULIEN-K emerged organically from the ashes of Orgy as we sought to redefine our artistic identity,” Shuck recounts. This period of transition catalyzed the band’s growth, shaping its uniquely distinct aesthetic and sound.
Reflecting on JULIEN-K’s musical trajectory, Shuck emphasizes the band’s commitment to defying conventions and exploring uncharted musical territories. “We aimed to fuse the dark, brooding atmospheres of Depeche Mode with the raw energy of guitar-driven rock,” he explains. This innovative fusion became the cornerstone of JULIEN-K’s signature style, proudly distinguishing itself in the fast-paced nature of the constantly evolving music industry.
The burgeoning band’s early days took an unexpected turn with a fortuitous collaboration with SEGA for the Sonic the Hedgehog video game soundtrack. Ultimately, Shuck was thrust into the spotlight as the lead vocalist for JULIEN-K. “It was a pivotal moment that propelled JULIEN-K into a new realm of visibility and creative exploration,” Shuck recalls. Embracing his role as the frontman, Shuck and the band members expanded their lyrical horizons, garnering acclaim and accolades along the way, and developing somewhat of a die-hard fanbase.
JULIEN-K’s musical contributions beyond the stage didn’t just stop with everyone’s favorite little blue hedgehog in high tops. The band’s unique sound shines through prominently on soundtracks for Michael Bay’s global billion-dollar “Transformers” franchise and myriad independent films. Shuck attributes the band’s early successes to a mere willingness to embrace diversification and adaptability. “We’ve always been drawn to projects that push boundaries and challenge the status quo,” he says.
In challenging that status quo, one aspect of JULIEN-K’s curated identity that resonates deeply with fans is the band members’ affinity for tattoos, which Shuck describes as a form of self-expression and rebellion. “Tattoos have always been a significant part of our aesthetic and identity,” the frontman says, explaining how his tattoo collection is like capturing moments in time forever. “They serve as a visual representation of our journey and our commitment to authenticity.”
Dark Mode is the band’s current focus alongside finishing out its highly anticipated tour. The ambitious project represents a departure from previous work. Dark Mode is an auditory exploration of the shadows; a journey into the depths of the human psyche,” Shuck claims. Funded through a successful Indiegogo campaign, Dark Mode demonstrates JULIEN-K’s evolution and its willingness to embrace change, embodying a darker, more electro-punk feel and bringing less lyrically charged offerings to the table for eager fans to dive headfirst into.
Shuck delves into the creative process behind Dark Mode, describing it as a collaborative effort fueled by experimentation and introspection. “We wanted to challenge ourselves and our audience to push the boundaries of electronic music,” he explains. The result is a sonic array that seamlessly blends darkness with pulsating dance beats, defying genre classification and captivating listeners with its raw emotion and energy.
While reflecting on JULIEN-K’s status as an outlier in the music industry, Shuck asserts, “We’ve always marched to the beat of our own drum, refusing to be confined by genre labels or industry norms.” Despite this, Shuck remains dedicated to JULIEN-K’s devoted fanbase, stressing the importance of authenticity and genuine connection.
Much of JULIEN-K’s loyal fanbase can be attributed to the fact that the band members are extremely hands-on when interacting with listeners, often recognizing familiar faces in a crowd, and personally handling community outreach endeavors themselves. JULIEN-K’s dedication to its fans is a rarity in today’s music industry and something that should be applauded.
Shuck elaborates on the challenges of growing in the music industry, highlighting the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. “The music industry can be unforgiving at times, but we’ve learned to embrace the journey and remain true to ourselves,” he reflects. Through dedication and determination, Julien-K carved out a niche for itself, earning respect and admiration from peers and fans alike.
The saga of JULIEN-K epitomizes resilience and innovation from within the too-often rigid confines of the music industry. With Dark Mode lighting the way and a fervent following in tow, JULIEN-K continues to push boundaries and challenge norms, solidifying its legacy as a vanguard of electronic evolution. Through their music, tattoos, and unwavering commitment to rebellious authenticity, JULIEN-K’s bandmates stand as forces to be reckoned with in the world of electro-death-pop, inspiring countless others to embrace creativity and chart their own path in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
