Drawing inspiration from the dystopian and chilling worlds of classic cult horror and science fiction films, duo Justin Pointer and Tony Kim embarked on a musical journey that transcends genre boundaries. Hailing from Irvine, California (USA), this dynamic duo has been crafting dark electronic metal-fueled synth anthems for over a decade.
DANCE WITH THE DEAD’s debut release on Halloween night 2013 set the stage for a career marked by innovation, retro-futuristic vibes, and a relentless passion for storytelling through music. Their musical evolution took a turn toward the mysterious as they explored orchestral score pieces, infusing their work with a darker mood on their EP Into the Abyss. By 2014, their second full-length album, Near Dark, was released, further solidifying their presence in the metal and synth scene. Hits like “Andromeda” and “Invader” crossed over, leaving an indelible mark on fans worldwide. DANCE WITH THE DEAD later appeared in the documentary film “The Rise of the Synths” appearing alongside various other artists alike and contributing a song to the soundtrack. Filmmaker John Carpenter narrated the film which explored the origins and growth of the modern synth scene.
The duo’s first live show took place in January 2015, captivating audiences with their unique brand of heavy synth. By November 2015, they were already headlining shows on their inaugural European tour. Over the years, they’ve had the privilege of providing direct support for renowned bands such as Avatar, Dragonforce, and Beast in Black during their North American performances. In 2019, they expanded their touring lineup by adding drummer John Terry (formerly of STARKILL), who resides in Chicago, IL.
DANCE WITH THE DEAD’s mesmerizing sonic blend marries analog synthesizer textures with the raw energy of early heavy metal guitars, evoking nostalgia for a bygone era while fearlessly pushing sonic boundaries. Influenced by luminaries such as Hans Zimmer, Justice, Daft Punk, The Misfits, White Zombie, Ozzy Osbourne, Alice Cooper, Kavinsky, Metallica, and John Carpenter, their sound resonates across time and genres. Notably, previous guest features include director John Carpenter and his son, Cody Carpenter, who contributed to their sixth full-length album, Driven to Madness. Additionally, Loved to Death showcased guitar solos from guitarist Nick Hipa and professional skateboarder Elliot Sloan.
DANCE WITH THE DEAD will embark on a North American headline tour in November 2024, and are slated to tour throughout 2025. Join them on their sonic odyssey as they bridge the gap between past and future, weaving intricate soundscapes that resonate with fans across the cosmos.