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Michel Amato, better known as The Hacker, has long been a pivotal figure in electronic music, influencing generations of fans and artists alike. Hailing from Grenoble, France, Amato's eclectic early exposure to Detroit techno, EBM, Italo Disco, and Acid House laid the foundation for his genre-defying sound. From his debut in 1996, he has continually pushed the boundaries of dance music, carving out his own space within techno, electro, EBM, and synth-pop.
Amato’s most iconic partnership came with Miss Kittin, with whom he created some of electroclash’s most memorable tracks, including "Champagne" (1998) and "Frank Sinatra" (2000). Released on DJ Hell’s International Deejay Gigolo label, these collaborations introduced a new wave of accessibility to underground dance music, earning both artists widespread acclaim and selling hundreds of thousands of records worldwide.
In 2004, Amato released his highly regarded solo album "Rêves Mécaniques", which marked a return to his roots in eerie, acid-driven techno. This period also saw him produce remixes, DJ mix CDs, and run his label GoodLife, expanding his influence across multiple corners of the electronic music world.
His 2017 LP, "Le Théâtre des Opérations", was a triumph, blending his signature icy, industrial sound with fresh production ideas, reaffirming his place as a key figure in both electro and EBM. The album was met with critical acclaim, gaining praise from tastemakers like Helena Hauff, Erol Alkan, and Veronica Vasicka. His collaborations, including a new project with Miss Kittin, alongside remixes for Depeche Mode's Dave Gahan and DJ Hell, further cemented his status.
Known for his captivating live performances, Amato’s setup blends classic hardware, including the Korg MS-20, Roland TR-808, and SH-101, bringing his analog roots to life on stages at Berghain, Dekmantel, and Off Sonar. As a true innovator and master of his craft, The Hacker remains a key figure in shaping the sound of modern dance music, his timeless tracks still rocking dancefloors worldwide.