Born in Calabria, Ida Mandato is an Italian Dj-producer who co-launched, at the end of 2023, ElektroKarma composed by the drummer Mark Madhoney, the singer Cee Blacksoul, the guitarist Federico Labbiento. Ida tells us more about the project and an official release in the next few weeks.

Your childhood?

I have always had a passion for music, since I was a child, I grew up listening to the music that was at home among dad's old records and audio tape, mostly country, rock and Italian, and with this red vintage radio, which he had bought in London in the 80s.

Your music education?

I studied electronic music production and sound engineering between 2017 and 2019. After graduating from the electronic music academy, I started working in the world of audio-visual post production. A year later, during COVID-19, I began studying for a European-level certification as an Audio, Lighting and Video technician for live shows. Today this is the work I do. At the same time, I continue to perform in the club, I continue my productions and my live projects.

Your first approach to Djing?

A few years earlier, partly for fun and partly out of curiosity, working in clubs, I started playing records. I began to create my collection and have the opportunity to mix. I spent many afternoons trying, sometimes even feeling bad because I couldn't, but with the help of friends and other artists, and above all with time and tenacity, finally something good happened! My journey behind the consoles starts from here, first in Rome, then in Italy and Europe.

Your references?

My musical and artistic references come from post punk, industrial music, dark wave, synth pop, EBM music, rock, metal and rap.

The Artists behind ElektroKarma...

ElektroKarma is composed by Mark Madhoney, Cee Blacksoul, Federico Labbiento and me. Mark Madhoney is a sound wizard and experienced composer, masterfully handles the music production and drums, crafting the tracks that form the foundation for the group's creative expression. Federico Labbiento adds a unique dimension with his electric guitars, banjos, and mandolin, creating deep and captivating atmospheres. Cee Blacksoul, with her powerful and magnetic voice, takes care of vocals and harmonies, infusing the tracks with unparalleled energy and depth. As a Dj and synth master, I complete the picture with my skills in manipulating BPMs and creating epic electronic atmospheres.

The sound of the project?

The result of this collaboration is a unique blend of techno, tribal, mystical, electronic sounds and organic elements that take listeners on an emotional and immersive journey. Our sound is designed to captivate and transport them to a different realm, merging intense beats with ethereal and evocative soundscapes. ElektroKarma is not just a musical group but a sensory and spiritual experience that goes beyond mere music, thanks to its innovative and technological vision.

What’s the message of the track “Din”?

"Din" is a powerful and evocative track sung in Latin. The haunting lyrics "magna culpa nostra noster dolor est magna uque ad finem erit dierum'' translate to a profound message: we must remain ever-present and free ourselves from guilt, despite our consciousness constantly pulling us into the darkest of thoughts. This struggle will persist until the end of our days. The essence of the song emphasizes the importance of making our unconscious mind conscious, so it doesn't take control of our lives, a fate we might otherwise attribute to destiny.

Top 5 festivals?

Berlin Atonal, Reaktor Katharsis, Labirynth, Weather Winter, ADE.

Your best gig?

One of the most beautiful dates that I carry in my heart is undoubtedly when I did the warm up for Front 242, at the Arena Club in Berlin, during the RISONANZA FESTIVAL in 2017. It was very exciting, given that they are one of my reference groups. Thinking about it still makes me emotional! I thank the promoter for giving me this great gift! 

The Dj that puts you crazy systematically?

Dasha Rush. I respect her a lot as a person, as a woman and as an artist, she has an incredible sensitivity and a huge knowledge! 

Without music, life would be…

My life would be nothing without music. It has always saved me, it has a constant presence in my life. 

Your favourite venue in Italy?

Masada, located in Milan. Every now and then I manage to pop in. It’s a place where I’ve always felt at home despite knowing little about the club and its habits, because I live in Rome. But I always come back home happy and satisfied. It is a club that also lives in daylight, from 2 pm to midnight. 

If you could teleport yourself?

I would go to the times of the ancient Egyptians. I have always felt a great attraction for that period, in some way I feel it very close to me.  

Ida Mandato in 3 words?

An authentic Aries!

Top 5 new releases?

Inigo Kennedy “Magnitudo” [Token records]

Polar Inertia “Environment Control” [Northern Electronics]

Black Asteroid “Dirge Out” [Artoffact Records]

Stanislav Tolkachev “Unspoken Feelings” [Nechto records]

DMX Krew “Mutated Brain Process” [No Static / Automatic]

Top 5 oldies?

Terence Fixmer “Electrostatic” 

Abdulla Rashim “Unanimity “

Adam X “Irreformable”

British Murder Boys “Learn Your Lesson”

Ben Frost “Venter”

Interviewed by Sabrina Bouzidi