Doomed Confessionary: Julian Jauk (Ultima Radio)
Ultima Radio is an alternative/stoner/crossover band from Graz/Vienna, Austria. Formed in 2014, the band currently consists of Daniel Dorninger (vocals), Julian Jauk (guitar, vocals), Benjamin Krause (guitar), Bernd Hausegger (bass) and Paul Krassnitzer (drums).
Originally emerging from stoner rock, Ultima Radio combines a variety of aspects in order to define their very own style: eccentrically and deliberately they wander through the crossover of the 90’s, nu-metal of the 00’s as well as numerous other styles and reinterpret them skillfully and competently, all combined with socio-critical messages expressed through an unusually exotic singing voice. From powerful to impulsive drum beats and heavy to sentimental guitar riffs, the instruments accompany the singer through brute and massive, but also calm and gentle compositions. Influences from Queens Of The Stone Age, All Them Witches, Tigercub, Kyuss, The Mars Volta and more.
Can you say a few words about your band?
Hey there! I’m Julian from the Austrian heavy alternative band Ultima Radio. For the past 10 years, we’ve been pushing the boundaries of traditional genres in search of our own unique sound. Drawing inspiration from bands like Queens Of The Stone Age, Rage Against The Machine, and Radiohead, we create atmospheric live shows and are continually working on new songs, videos, sessions, and collaborations. For all five of us, making music is a vital part of our daily lives, and there’s nothing better than sharing it with others. Let the music speak for itself – feel free to check out any of our social media channels!
What was the biggest challenge for the band?
The biggest challenge for us as a band has been finding our own sound. With five members, each coming from different backgrounds and having diverse musical tastes, it took time to find a common ground. I’d say we finally discovered our genre with our third studio album, Sleep Panic Repeat. Although our music continues to evolve, we’re now creating more cohesive albums.
What can you be most proud of so far?
What I’m most proud of so far is the release of our latest full-length album. It involved not only the music production but also a performance video showcasing the entire album, where we burn the covers of our limited 200-piece vinyl edition. The effort we put into that project is unmatched, although I can’t wait to see what the future brings!
What was your biggest regret?
I don’t think there’s anything to regret. Even driving hundreds of kilometers to play small club shows paid off in the end. You never know how things will turn out. So, we don’t regret anything – we just keep taking every opportunity that comes our way.
What was the best concert/tour so far and why?
We’ve enjoyed every tour we’ve done in Germany so far. It’s always great to reconnect with friends from other bands we haven’t seen in a while. When we come together to share the stage for a night, it just feels right. Touring, in general, is something we love – it gives us time to bond as a band, experience new places, see different cities, and, of course, collect some wild backstage stories along the way.
What was the biggest surprise on the music scene for you?
The biggest surprise for us has been that the more aggressive the music sounds, the kinder the people are. It’s honestly surprising how, when you work with people from different genres, it’s often those in heavier music who turn out to be the most genuine, kind, and caring individuals.
What is currently in your heavy musical rotation?
Currently? As I’m answering these questions, I’ve got the album »We Are All Atomic« by the US band Spotlights playing in the background.
What was the best advice you’ve ever been given as a musician?
The best advice I’ve ever received as a musician is: don’t make music just for yourself. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy playing or listening to your own work, but when it comes to songwriting, don’t focus too much on how technically impressive or complex your playing is. It’s all about the song and how it connects with others.
What are your guilty pleasures?
As a band? Probably meeting up to work on production but ending up just sitting around, enjoying each other’s company, and talking about other music instead. Though, to be honest, it doesn’t really make us feel all that guilty!
Can you say something more about current music scene in Graz?
Our hometown of Graz has always had a thriving alternative music scene. Organizations like WakMusic, Explosiv Graz, and Punk Verein Austria provide essential infrastructure and support for local bands, helping smaller acts grow and gain exposure. It’s a great community for fostering new talent and keeping the local music culture alive.
Where can we see you live this year (concerts/tours)?
After a recent lineup change, we’ll be back on stage starting in January 2025, with shows across Austria, including Graz, Vienna, Linz, and Salzburg. More information will be available soon on our social media platforms.
What are your plans for the future as a band?
For now, we’re focused on songwriting with our new singer, Dan, from Witchrider, with the goal of recording a new LP in the near future. With our upcoming shows, we want to enhance our live performance and refine the new songs as well.
How can people best support your band?
The best way to support us is by coming to our live shows – it’s always great to see our fans’ faces! Also, checking out our merch on Bandcamp is a big help; we’re currently offering most of our items at very low prices.
Do you have any message for your listeners?
You guys are fantastic, just stay like that!
Links:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | YouTube
Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well