Alec Empire

Alec Empire, founder of Digital Hardcore Recordings in Berlin, was known for his diverse musical works in the 1990s, both as a solo artist and with the group Atari Teenage Riot. Empire's music spanned genres from punk and industrial to techno and breakbeat, gaining a wide fan base. He released albums on labels like Mille Plateaux and Grand Royal Records, showcasing his range from ambient to intense breakcore. In addition to his solo work, Empire collaborated with various artists and continued to push boundaries in the electronic music scene.

Born in West Berlin, Alec Empire's musical journey started with influences from rap and punk, leading him to explore acid and techno sounds. Forming Atari Teenage Riot in 1992, Empire's music combined political themes with acid synths and distorted breakbeats. He later founded Digital Hardcore Recordings and released solo albums that challenged the norms of electronic music. Empire's collaborations and projects continued to evolve his sound, culminating in releases like Intelligence & Sacrifice and Shivers, showcasing his versatility as an artist.