Janus (musical project)


Janus is a German musical project led by Dirk "Rig" Riegert and Tobias Hahn. The name comes from Roman mythology, specifically the god Janus, who ruled over gates and doors.
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History

From the beginning, Janus consisted of only two members - Dirk "Rig" Riegert, songwriter and vocalist, and Tobias "Toby" Hahn, programmer and piano player. Throughout their albums Janus has used many guest musicians, up to and including an entire orchestra.
Despite positive criticism, the debut album Vater failed to attract much attention. However, with further releases, Janus gained more popularity within the German alternative scene.

Musical characteristics

The music style of Janus is not easy to define. It can be labeled as Neue Deutsche Härte with influences of drum and bass, trip hop, tango and film score elements.
Like the mythological god, Janus has two faces: aggressive electronic pieces, and ballads with acoustic instruments. In their concerts, Janus is often assisted by guest musicians, who can also be found on the albums, although they are not official members of the band.
Janus uses the German language to describe such human emotions as hate, despair, insanity, fear, and loss.

Line-up

Members
  • Dirk "Rig" Riegert - Vocals and lyrics
  • Tobias "Toby" Hahn - Programming and piano

Discography

Releases

  • ????: Liebeslieder
  • 1995: Schlafende Hunde
  • 1997: Vater Demo
  • 1998: Vater
  • 1999: Isaak
  • 2000: Schlafende Hunde
  • 2001: Hundstage (EP)
  • 2002: Winterreise
  • 2004: Auferstehung
  • 2004: Kleine Ängste
  • 2004: Kleine Ängste
  • 2005: Live Bootleg DVD
  • 2005: Nachtmahr
  • 2005: Die Alpträume des Herrn Riegert
  • 2005: Live Bootleg DVD
  • 2006: Vater Deluxe
  • 2014: Schlafende Hunde Deluxe
  • 2017: ''Ein Schwacher Trost''

Compilation appearances

  • Touched By The Hand Of Goth Volume IV – Saitenspiel
  • Nachtschwärmer 3 – Rorschach
  • Mondenblut 1 – Gescheitert
  • Sonic Seducer Cold Hands Seduction Vol. XVII – Was uns zerbricht
  • Dark Roses - 36 Mystic And Electropop Romantics – Isaak
  • Leichenschrei - Trisol Bible Chapter 2 - Kleine Ängste
  • Orkus Presents The Best Of 2004 – Paulas Spiel
  • Orkus Presents The Best Of 2005 - ''Grabenkrieg''