Right at the corner of trad goth and Warped Tour punk sits Jules Is Dead, a Toronto-based artist committed to keeping alternative subcultures alive for the current scene. Their latest guitar-driven single, “Eternally (undeath),” effectively portrays Jules’ mission statement to new and returning audiences.

Jules represents a crucial center of a Venn Diagram, though its two categories are seemingly vastly different. It’s not uncommon to witness alternative subcultures blend in with each other over time, becoming one thanks to expressive artistry from emerging talent. Often, good music made by real-deal artists gives way for these combinations to coexist.

Jules is a hands-on creative, asserting that major label support allows their success by prioritizing authenticity.

This single offers incredible guitar playing, mixed evenly with other production layers without creating an overproduced sound. If you listen closely, you will find nods to metalcore within this mix, showcasing Jules’ desire to get a bit heavier with their music as they explore sonic possibilities. There are also at least two seemingly intentional references to My Chemical Romance within the mix, namely in the drums (marching band snare!) and guitar layers towards the bridge.

Their vocals are melodic and haunting, yet bold, alluding to a healthy belt hidden within them that we haven’t heard yet—or, perhaps, gritty screams that are itching to come out.

Either way, “Eternally (undeath)” is an optimistic release for Jules. Perhaps major labels still want to push rock music made by actual fans of the genre to the forefront, as they should!