Emerging from the serene landscapes of Nainital, Uttarakhand, AKU-KO has carved a unique identity in the electronic music scene—an identity rooted in emotion, introspection, and a deep respect for musical artistry. His journey began in 2008 with a schoolboy fascination for the guitar, which later evolved into college rock bands and then a professional education at AR Rahman’s KM Music Conservatory in Chennai, where he specialized in classical guitar and composition.
Today, AKU-KO stands out not just as a producer or DJ, but as a sonic storyteller—a creator whose soundscape invites listeners into conceptual worlds shaped by mood, texture, and thought.
From Guitar Strings to Synth Waves
His musical beginnings may have been anchored in classical training, but it wasn’t long before electronic music became his playground. After discovering Aphex Twin, AKU-KO delved into digital production with an early passion for DAWs. Producing his first album track “Simply Odd” in the passenger seat of a car on a highway, he captured a moment that would become a cornerstone of his creative memory. That kind of spontaneity and raw connection to place and emotion continues to define his work.
A Style That Evolves with Every EP
AKU-KO’s discography is less of a catalog and more of a journey. Each EP he releases explores new sonic terrain, deliberately avoiding the confines of genre. His music often carries a calm, meditative undertone, inviting listeners to slow down and look inward. Rather than chasing trends, he builds worlds—one track at a time—infusing each with meaning and method.
When asked about his approach, AKU-KO insists that his process remains intuitive and joy-driven: “The music should be fun.” This simple philosophy strips away pretension and replaces it with honesty—a trait clearly audible in his compositions.
Inspirations & Tools of the Trade
Influences like Igor Stravinsky, Dax J, Head Nodding Society, and of course Aphex Twin, blend classical sensibilities with the cutting-edge pulse of modern electronica. With tools like the Akai MPC Live 2 and Ableton Live, he manipulates sound not as a technician, but as an artist sculpting raw emotion.
AKU-KO values staying connected with musicians of all ages, believing that such exchanges feed the creative cycle. That openness led to one of his most defining projects—“The Noise Capital” (2023), a genre-blending masterpiece featuring collaborations with six classically trained musicians and a DJ. Merging electronic frameworks with instruments like trombone, flute, and double bass, he created a rare harmony between the structured and the spontaneous.
On Stage & In Studio
Although DJing came into his life after relocating to Goa, AKU-KO finds a stronger connection through live performances, where he can control sound layers and navigate the energy of the room with precision. One of his standout experiences was at a private party in Arambol, where he manned the decks for over five hours, sneaking in some of his original productions—an electrifying moment of validation.
Despite the inevitable bouts of creative block, he relies on the mantra “just make music” to keep moving forward. It’s this consistency that gives him his edge—not overthinking, just doing.
Looking Ahead
With a new album blending house and techno set to release in July, AKU-KO shows no signs of slowing down. He’s constantly evolving, pushing boundaries without losing touch with the human heart behind the beats. His track “Midnight Drive” from the album Green Pink Yellow Blue is a personal favorite—a testament to his ability to bottle atmosphere in audio.
Final Notes
If there’s one thing AKU-KO would pass on to aspiring artists, it’s simple yet powerful: “Keep on making music.” His journey, marked by integrity, collaboration, and experimentation, proves that great art isn’t just about sound—it’s about soul.
In a world of algorithms and auto-tune, AKU-KO reminds us that the best music still begins with a feeling, a moment, and the courage to hit “record.”
