Leaving your mark on the world is more than a moment; it’s about a lifetime experience. Autograf, a trio comprised of Mikul Wing, Louis Kha and Jake Carpenter, has brought back the process of art, with the music to match.
After seeing Autograf live in Atlanta earlier this October, I witnessed a movement of art and music working seamlessly intertwined. Their dedication to the work they present is admi- rable and impressionable on the music industry.
Autograf is a full electron- ic band that plays all of their instruments live. They also design and build their own stag- es and instruments. As an elec- tronic pop trio comparable to the likes of Lorde, Pharrell and Stevie Wonder, Autograf will likely be playing at your next night-out venue.
The hype is very real and alive. Their latest album scored them 10 Hype Machine No. 1, but Autograf aren’t stopping there. With the latest release of their “Future Sauce EP,” Autograf have embarked on tour with a voice of their own. Their rich bass, haunting vocals, custom built pieces and three different lifestyles make Autograf one of the best ever-changing electronic groups of this decade.
An interview with Autograf member Mikul Wing provides a little insight on the band’s history and how their success has been a parallel to their artistic influence:
What do you guys want people to get from the visuals along with the music?
The whole idea behind our art and music is what we’re doing to make an impact on the world, or what you’re leaving behind—the literal translation of “leaving your autograf,” following that passion, and putting it out into the world.
Although you guys are based in Chicago, how did you guys come together as a collective?
We knew each other about three years ago, and we were all working on separate things, all artistically inclined, and kind of decided to start something new and Autograf was born.
What do you believe is the biggest obstacle that Autograf had to overcome?
I think it’s always hard try- ing to keep making your art and making music. It’s hard to find the balance sometimes, but I def- initely believe it’s necessary. We always try to dedicate some time to both as much as we can even though being on tour now makes it a bit harder.
How important is the process of making both the art and music to Autograf?
It’s what we’re all about and
what we try to convey to the fans. Weputinasmuchtimewecanto crafting our shows. We design our stage plots, design everything on stage. We’ve never hired anyone, we’ve always attempting to try our best to build it.
Any rituals before a show?
We don’t do anything too drastic. We always try to get in the right head space before a show.
How would you describe your style of music?
Right now we’ve been focus- ing on live electronica music. When we initially started making music, we didn’t intend to do the live thing, but it’s grown into this amazing live performance.
What artists inspire you and your music?
A lot of the artists we grew up listening to like the French House movement and other bands. I got super inspired by listening to dif- ferent bands and their remixes.
Where do you see Autograf going in the future?
It’s hard to tell, but it’s been crazy what we’ve already done this year. We’ll hopefully play some new songs during the tour and get back to making more visual art. The music took off and we just want to keep making more for the fans.
Autograf will be playing live at Madison’s Liquid on Wednesday, Oct. 19.
