British/German artist Annika Henderson, who goes by the stage name Anika, is an expert in electronic dance music (EDM). She broke through in 2010 when she released “Anika,” an experimental LP she recorded in Bristol, England with Geoff Barrow and his band, Beak. The success of the work led Anika from journalism to music, art, poetry, and film.
Although she is best known for her cover of The Kinks’ classic “I Go to Sleep,” she has worked with many filmmakers, artists and musicians. Among the musicians were Beate Bartel and Gudrun Gut, who were members of Mania D, the first all-female punk band in Germany. She also narrated a short film by Rainer Kohlberger, “It Has to be Lived Once and Dreamed Twice.”
At the same time, she formed “Exploded View,” her band, in Mexico City. Not satisfied with collaborating with humans, Anika developed a robot that writes lyrics and gave shows with it, layering its robotic compositions over live music. When shows like this are planned, organizers can use poster printing to create advertising.
Since 2009, Anika has performed throughout the world, in famous venues and festivals, including the Moog Festival in London, where she shared the stage with notables such as Tangerine Dream, and Moebius. She mixes psychedelic, post-punk, and dub, then adds in strong vocals for a unique performance.
A review said:
“Anything that Anika does is perfect.”
Anika will be at The Casbah in San Diego on May 15.