ANKKH is an Italian duo, DJ & performers composed by Kristofer and Ektor, based in Milan, Italy.

They studied at the Academy of Fine Arts Performance and Visual Arts, also the duo performed in the best Italian clubs. From a strong artistic identity inspired by different subcultures such as cyberpunk and hyper pop, they combine their art with sound and transformation. They play techno with various contaminations, especially those related to the Queer culture of which they are part. ANKKH live show is an experience of electronic sounds and performative moments creating an underground surreal atmosphere.

How did you find music? Did you grow up in a musical household, or are you first generation?

Music like any art form is always within yourself if you are destined to manifest it. Our creative nature has led us to be passionate about various disciplines, such as painting and performance art up to music. Since we discovered the world of electronic music by attending clubs and raves, Techno genre has become the closest to our expression. We are the first in our family to deal with this.

Which decades of music influenced you as children and why?

As children, we listened to classical music, from rock to pop, but we were always attracted by those who experimented by mixing unusual and alternative sounds, paying attention to the lyrics and their contents. Music must be able to communicate a message. When you are young you need to explore all styles and create a general culture.

 

Name your favorite artists or bands who inspire you constantly.

We are very inspired by HyperPop and Glithcore which are the most current musical genres, featuring artists such as Arca, Sophie, Dorian Electra, Shygirl, CharlieXXC and many others, as for Techno instead VTSS, LSDXOXO, I Hate Models, SPDFJ, Brutalismus3000, Salome.

What makes your last album release GLITCHBITCH so unique? What do you expect from your listeners with this release and what is the message behind that you want us to understand?

Glitchbitch is our first single prod. By HEMPTOTE.

It is unique because it appropriates the Queer culture, it is created to spread this movement. The message speaks about a new generation that awakens through the internet, understanding the meaning of reality as a “Matrix” and to determine itself as a free and fluid entity. The characters chosen for the video are the best representation of the new generation, they free themselves through parties and electronic music.

When you’re not recording and performing, what other hobbies make you tick?

We studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna and when we don’t make music we create art. We are also Digital Artists, we create surreal media content by working with brands and magazines. Another great passion is spirituality and in our free time, we try to develop it by being in contact with nature and meditating.

What particular project you have created resonates with you the most and why?

The best project is what we have accomplished on ourselves, without first accepting and freeing ourselves nothing could have happened. These have been years of analysis, constant research, knowing how to get involved by forming one’s own original identity. Ankkh is our biggest project, made by two entities that have the same mission.

How do you approach the creative process of making music?

We approach the creative process with a lot of analysis and brainstorming. We start from an idea and develop it by finding the most appropriate meaning. We communicate content that we have political messages.

How has the pandemic situation affected your career and how did you overcome this challenge?

The pandemic situation was a very difficult time especially for those who work in events and with the public. It was two years in which it was impossible to perform live and create moments of aggregation. However, we have worked hard, and we have used the time available to improve our talents, update and prepare. Our dreams were greater than the limits imposed, and they gave us the strength to resist. Now the results are paying off and we are riding the best dancefloors, connecting our community.

 

What do you think is the biggest challenge for independent musicians nowadays? How would you change the toxic system in order to improve the music industry?

For an independent artist, the big problem is financial, living in a capitalist system, without money everything is complicated. From production to the creation of videos, to communication and marketing, they require an economic aspect. However, this mustn’t hinder what you love, you will just need more time, but if you believe in it it can become reality. It would be nice if there were more opportunities for young people. The music industry should do more scouting and allow the development and innovation of emerging artists.

A letter to your FUTURE self. What would you write?

Hello ANKKH of the future, you have succeeded in fulfilling your destiny, you have fought to make this world a better place. Always remain humble, reminding yourself that you come from the street, do not be dazzled by wealth, help others, and trust in who you are. Gratitude will be fundamental to you, the stars are aligned to do justice. The work of transition between 4D and 5D has been accomplished, the patriarchy has been destroyed, and in the future, there is peace and love, thanks also to you.

 

 

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