Image Credit: Areta Peristeri
Meet ANNĒ, the Thessaloniki-born artist turning raw emotion into rave alchemy. Since launching her music career in 2012, she’s blurred the lines between DJ and storyteller, crafting high-voltage sets and emotionally charged productions that nod to Detroit techno, ’90s rave culture, and the raw pulse of the early 2000s. With heavyweight releases on labels like Hardgroove, Symbolism, Mutual Rytm, NECHTO, and CROWD/SPANDAU20, her sound has resonated from Berghain to Bassiani, leaving a global trail of sweat-soaked dancefloors and deep-cut vinyl drops. But beyond her technical precision lies a deeper ethos: for ANNĒ, the club is communion, and the dancer is as vital to the ritual as the selector.
Read our exclusive interview with her now:
Paint us a picture: what sparked your passion for the arts in the first place?
I grew up in a family where the arts were always present. My parents and close relatives were quite artistic in different ways, and music played a significant role in our daily life. From early on, I knew deep inside that I would follow a path in the arts. I just didn’t know exactly what form it would take.
There wasn’t one single defining moment, but more of a gradual realization. When I discovered electronic music, something clicked. It felt like a language that made complete sense to me.
When you create, what leads the way – a feeling, a story, or the sound itself?
For me, it always starts with a feeling. Emotion is the core of everything I do. That feeling then slowly transforms into a kind of story. The sound comes after, as a tool to translate what I feel inside.
What’s in your toolkit? Share the gear, gadgets, or software you can’t create without.
Ableton Live is the core of my setup. I rely heavily on the Maschine+ from Native Instruments, the Roland Super JV, and the Elektron Analog Rytm. Each brings something unique, but it’s really about how you use them to translate emotion into sound.
What’s your go-to ritual or trick for getting into the creative zone?
I need to create the right emotional space before I start — that could mean taking a walk, listening to inspiring music, or just sitting in silence. I usually start by jamming freely. I also pay attention to lighting and energy in my space.
What’s the one item you always keep within arm’s reach while creating or performing?
A notebook or my phone to jot down thoughts, emotions, or visual ideas that come up during the process.
How did you ultimately end up defining your sound?
It happened naturally over time. My sound is rooted in emotion, deeper and darker atmospheres, powerful rhythms, hypnotic elements, and emotional textures. It keeps growing, but the core stays true to who I am.
How has your creative process or perspective shifted since you started your journey?
In the beginning, I focused on proving myself. Over time, I started trusting my intuition and creating from a more personal place. I now value depth and impact over hype or quantity.
Walk us through a recording session: what’s the most memorable moment you’ve had in the studio?
During the covid period, I found a rhythm late at night that felt like it unlocked something inside me. Everything flowed from there, like the track was writing itself. It reminded me why I love making music.
Are there any unexpected or dream collaborations hidden in your work?
I used to think about dream collaborations, but now I believe they should happen naturally. If it’s meant to be, it will be.
Any side projects you’re working on?
I’m working on three more EPs and two various artist compilations. I’m also curating a VA for Nastia’s label, Nechto.
Who’s an emerging artist you think deserves more recognition right now?
I look out for artists who bring authenticity and depth. It’s more about supporting a culture of originality than naming just one person.
What’s the strangest or most surprising song currently on your playlist?
Pffff…I have plenty of strange tracks on my playlist 🙂
Which song, album or playlist do you never get sick of no matter how many times you listen to it?
Inner City – Good Life
DJ Rolando – Knights of the Jaguar
Jeff Mills – The Bells
Octave One feat. Ann Saunderson – Black Water
Are there any unexpected hobbies or projects you’re exploring outside of your main work?
I am playing tennis 🙂
If your life and career were an album, what would its title be, and what’s the hidden track only your fans would know?
Possible Is Not Impossible
The hidden track would be ‘Patience’.
Give us a glimpse into the future – what surprises or milestones are coming up for you this year?
Not this year but next year I’m laying the foundations for something more personal — a long-term project reflecting my artistic identity on a deeper level.
Famous last words?
Trust your path — even when it doesn’t make sense to anyone else. Stay real, stay patient… and if all else fails, just let the kick drum do the talking.
Check out her latest release now:
Follow ANNĒ:
Spotify – Soundcloud – Beatport – Facebook – Instagram – Resident Advisor
