IN CONVERSATION WITH ICYKOF
Interview by Samo Šajn
ICYKOF is a London-based DJ and producer. Renowned for his fusion of Detroit techno and Chicago house. Formerly known for his influential The Unknown Vlogs, where he pioneered streetwear content. He has transitioned into the world of music, creating a distinct sonic experience that pushes creative boundaries. With his debut EP Zero Sugar, ICYKOF continues to shape the future of electronic music.
You had a huge impact in the fashion world with The Unknown Vlogs. What was the turning point that made you fully transition into music?
Lockdown gave me time to reflect on where I wanted to be 10+ years from then. I started learning music production and DJing, and naturally developed clothing brands inspired by electronic music and nightlife, Bonne Nuit Studios and now Rave Nuit. The Unknown Vlogs was always fashion-focused, so in 2020 I decided to change the narrative around me and showcase my passion for music through vlogs and DJ mixes.
Your music draws from legends like Carl Craig, Moodymann, and Robert Hood. What is it about Detroit techno and Chicago house that resonates with you the most?
Seeing Cajmere perform with his nonchalant voice over a hard-hitting groove machine, adding an acid bassline, is a recipe for a great night. These legends deliver techno effortlessly. There are no gimmicks, just pure history of where techno began, pounding the dancefloor in an uplifting way. It’s gospel to my ears.
Your debut EP channels underground techno energy with elements of acid house. Can you walk us through the creative process behind Zero Sugar?
One of the first analogue machines I used was the Roland 909 and 303 in James Rand’s studio, where I learned a lot about music production. Every track started with a bassline or groove, which would inspire a vocal or hook. Throw in a 909, and you have magic. The whole EP came naturally after many nights of screaming and dancing.
Payday has a slower, lo-fi acid vibe compared to the rest of the EP. What inspired this track’s direction?
There’s a track called Fashion Week that almost made the cut. I played all my tracks at my London residency to test the vibe, and I felt there needed to be a slower track that the dancefloor could sing along to. Payday came from that vibe, as it’s a universal feeling we can all relate to.
Coming from a world of high fashion and now diving deep into underground electronic music, do you feel a tension between those two worlds?
I’m used to the in-between. When I started YouTube, I described The Unknown Vlogs as bridging the gap between underground streetwear and mainstream fashion. I’m still in that space, trying to balance both worlds. The next generation wants to create in borderless ways. Ritchie Hawtin for Prada is the coolest thing I’ve seen in this context.
You’ve spoken about the techno punk aesthetic. How important is visual identity in your music career, and how does it tie into your sound?
I’ve seen people at Tokyo raves in full Comme Des Garçons or Rick Owens. There’s something special about techno where no cameras are allowed, and everyone expresses themselves freely. More than an aesthetic, it’s a lifestyle influenced by the environment in which techno is played.
Your work has already received recognition from industry heavyweights like Josh Wink and DJ Bone. What does that support mean to you?
Receiving co-signs from the OGs who came before me means everything. It reminds me that my music is bigger than me and that I’m on the right path, surrounded by people who genuinely wish me the best.
Being based in London, how has the city’s music scene influenced your approach to production and DJing?
If London were a track, it would be Burial - Archangel. The city feels airy and grey, like autopilot. I try to reflect that in my music with acid chaos on the bassline and hypnotic grooves, like finishing work and heading home, avoiding the city’s dangers.
Having built a massive audience through vlogging, how has your relationship with your fans evolved now that your focus is entirely on music?
It took a few years, but now the conversations are all about music. My fans, who once followed me for streetwear, are now coming to see me play, whether in London or from abroad. It’s not an easy transition, but I’m doing what I love, regardless of others' opinions.
With Zero Sugar set to drop soon, what can we expect from ICYKOF in the future? Any dream collaborations or projects in the works?
Expect me to bring fresh energy to dance music and music videos. Some exciting collaborations are on the way from my 10 years of online connections.
ICYKOF’s debut EP Zero Sugar will be out on April 3rd – pre-save here.
