Athens-born Frantikk is a fellow rising tech house artist with a hybrid style that has come on the likes of Circus Recordings before now. Here, he shares a few insights into his life in light of his latest release ‘Gotta Have You,’ on North Of Neptune with Ekoboy on 14th February 2025.
Hey Frantikk, welcome to Music Is 4 Lovers! How are things with you?
Thanks for having me, guys. It’s great to be here! I am currently doing this interview at a sunny beach resort in Athens while sipping a pina colada, so life is good!
You’ve had support from some big names in the scene already. What does that recognition mean to you, and how does it influence your journey as an artist?
It’s always great getting recognition from big names in the scene as it really boosts your confidence. I have been doing this for quite a while now; therefore, it is not something I ever see myself stopping or being involved in, one way or another.
You’ve been part of both Athens and Brighton’s musical landscapes. How have these two cities shaped your sound differently? Can you pinpoint any specific influences that stand out?
Ah, yes…certainly! For me, Brighton has been the biggest life teacher, in the most literal sense! It has a very distinct vibe that I have yet to find in any other place I have visited. Whether you are an artist or just have artistic tendencies, you just soak up so much energy from that city that it is insane. I am yet to find a more colourful place! This is where I first got into music production, particularly drum and bass, which has a massive scene there. It has undeniably shaped my sound and taste a lot!
Athens is where I grew up and where I got my first gigs as a heavy metal guitarist in a band; therefore, it also has a very special place in my heart. Also, Athens by night has a very distinct dark/industrial vibe(if you know where to go, that is) that I absolutely adore. There is an absolute feeling of liberty, and literally anything can go down. It almost feels like playing GTA in real life, and I absolutely love that vibe 😀
How would you describe your style to someone who’s never heard your music before?
I am very multifaceted as a producer and as a person in general; therefore, I never stick too much to styles and labels. Having said this, I am very big into the sound engineering qualities of a great record. Therefore, I always try to achieve the best possible punch and clarity in my tunes.
Tell us about your latest EP, ‘ Gotta Have You,’ on North Of Neptune with Ekoboy. How did that collaboration come about?
That collaboration came about in two every warm evening in Athens at Ekoboy’s studio. I showed up with stem ideas and the tunes literally wrote themselves. It was the smoothest and fastest wrap-up I have experienced so far.
Collaboration seems to be a central part of your career. What’s the secret to a successful collaboration in your opinion?
I would say the most important thing in a collaboration is to get on with the collaboration partner as a person. There have been times when the energy with some people is just off, and you feel that awkwardness straight away; it is not fun! Other than that, it is always great, if possible, to be combining forces. (One produces while the other engineers, etc.)
Thanks so much for joining us today! Lastly, can you tell us what’s next for you?
Again thank you so much for having me! This year, we are aiming to boost Ekoboy’s new label, “Bacchic Records”, which invited me in as a partner. We will be signing lots of new artists there, as well as throwing events. Other than that, I am aiming to have some more releases on the Repopulate Mars family, as I love their sound and brand overall, which is what I am working on at the moment.
Ekoboy & Frantikk ‘Gotta Have You’ EP dropped via North Of Neptune on 14th February 2025. BUY HERE
Follow:
Frantikk: Instagram – Soundcloud – Spotify