Julian Angel is the multi-instrumental artist rated “Stripper Rock” focussing on music for action scenes.
The Stripper Rock term, as stated in an album review, is based on the furious mix of rock guitars and slamming grooves featured on his “Choreography Sucks” album.
Growing up on both rock and roll and black music Julian soon developed a fondness for cross-genre experiments, however, without ever losing a clear musical basis ...
Interview (in collaboration with The Score)
How did you get your start as a composer?
Ever since I started writing songs for my school band I have kept honing that skill until I was able to record and release my first solo album in the year 2000, which was the first time the world could, literally, hear about me…
Do you have any formal musical training?
I used to take private guitar lessons back in my teenage days, but I am mainly self taught. Of course, I am familiar with music theory. More than my music teacher in school used to be. He denied the locrian scale just to bug me, thus leaving the seventh mode blank…
What would you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses?
Besides my guitar playing – I had actually been nominated for best German guitarist at the Rock Awards – it is my affection for experiments. Coming up with something new, different and surprising. This can both my strength and weakness, since you should know when to quit…
Who are some of your favourite composers?
Mainly rock and pop composers such as Desmond Child, Diane Warren, the Chinn/Chapman couple or Richard Marx. Prince is a genius and so was Frank Zappa.
Are you a multi-genre composer or do you like to specialize in one particular area?
Guitar-driven rock music is definitely my favorite and most prominent genre. However, you will also find pop, blues, acoustic, electronic and lounge stuff in my repertoire.
What types of media have you composed for and which is your favourite (if any)?
Be it film, radio, television - any medium is good and challenging. To me it is more about the content, the work itself rather than the medium. I had a song placed as a theme for a small tv show which felt pretty rewarding.
Have you had any large clients, and if so, who were they?
Yes, a 6’5” supervisor… Honestly, I am just getting started in the field of music licensing for film and tv. I’ve cast my net…
What project have you enjoyed working on the most?
My Sounds Of Action catalog. It is what I love doing and what I’m best at. So it is genuine.
What advice would you give clients about how to prepare for working with you on their project?
Just be determined… Seriously, the better a client can describe his needs, the more efficiently I can realize them. Examples of similar music always help a lot. If the music needs lyrics to fit a certain scene, obtaining a script or a rough cut of that part is perfect.
Any tips for how clients can best communicate their ideas to their composer?
Despite all the great new media I think nothing beats a personal conversation, be it face to face or on the phone. Spoken word is definitely the best way to avoid any misunderstandings. Again, a few examples of similar music are a great way to back up descriptions and explanations.
What form of marketing/promotion do you use (if any)?
Many – and I’m still figuring out what works. I have a website, myspace, facebook, a mailing list and I also participate in discussions on several boards and forums.
What advice would you offer those wanting to get into the industry?
Never let the bastards wear you down!
If you were stuck on a desert island with 3 tracks, what would they be?
Van Halen “Top Of The World”, Steel Panther “Party All Day”, House Of Lords “Remember My Name”. Ask again tomorrow and they will have changed…
What are your other interests outside of music?
Working out, waterskiing, eating ice-cream, watching B-side movies, going to Las Vegas. Oh, and I have a cat who loves sleeping on my studio desk…