autoKratz

autoKratz are a London, United Kingdom-based duo formed of David Cox and Russell Crank. Active since 2007, they work across electro, electroclash, electronic, electronica and techno.

Background

The duo emerge onto the UK music scene in early 2009 and build a reputation quickly through a sound built around bass hooks, vocal lines, beats, and electronic bleeps and slices. Their music draws comparisons with Digitalism, and they gain support from BBC tastemakers including Annie Mac, Zane Lowe, Pete Tong and Steve Lamacq, as well as club support from Tiga, Erol Alkan and Brodinski.

Recordings and releases

Kitsuné signs the duo to release their full-length album Animal in Europe in 2009. The record includes the single “Always More”, described as the first single from the album, along with “Stay The Same”, “Can’t Get Enough” and “Speak In Silence”. The single “Always More” also appears with a remix package featuring Yuksek, Shadow Dancer, Goshi Goshi, Alex Gopher, Logo and Deathface.

Live activity

autoKratz tour widely after the release of Animal and build a strong following in the European electro underground through their live shows. They also play major festivals including Glastonbury, Lowlands and Pukkelpop. Their performances are described as combining rock and roll energy with a distinctive electro sound, and they are compared at times with Underworld, Depeche Mode and The Prodigy.

Style and significance

The duo are presented as part of a new wave of British electronic music, with songwriting that leans towards electro-pop as well as harder club-oriented material. Their debut album is framed as a personal record, and the group describe it as capturing their energy and aiming to create songs that have an impact on listeners.