Artbat is a Ukrainian electronic duo composed of Artem Rada and Alexander Butenko (known as Batish). The duo has become one of the most influential acts on the modern electronic scene. Their sound is a fusion of progressive house, melodic techno, and techno, blending emotional depth, atmosphere, and powerful energy. Today, Artbat stands as a symbol of the new Ukrainian wave, recognized across the globe.
Early Years and Formation
Artem Rada and Alexander "Batish" Butenko hail from Kyiv, Ukraine. Before forming the duo, both were active on the Ukrainian electronic scene: Artem as a DJ and producer, and Batish as a multi-instrumentalist and composer. In 2015, they decided to combine their creative forces, launching the project Artbat. The name symbolizes their union — Art (Artem) and Bat (Batish).
First Releases and Breakthrough
Artbat made their debut in 2015. Their early tracks quickly entered Beatport charts thanks to their high-quality production and recognizable sound. The real breakthrough came with the release of “Mandrake” (Diynamic), supported by Solomun, Richie Hawtin, Maceo Plex, and other scene legends. This track marked the beginning of the duo’s international success.
Global Recognition and International Hits
Between 2017 and 2019, Artbat secured their position as top-tier producers. Tracks like “Tabu”, “Atlas”, “Upperground” (Diynamic Music), and their remix of “Return to Oz” for Monolink became true anthems of melodic techno. The latter ranked among the Top 10 best-selling tracks of the year on Beatport and earned the duo a Beatport Award.
Performances and Festivals
Artbat are regular performers at the world’s biggest festivals:
- Tomorrowland (Belgium)
- Coachella (USA)
- Awakenings (Netherlands)
- EXIT (Serbia)
- Ultra Music Festival (Miami)
- Burning Man (USA)
Their sets have graced some of the most prestigious venues around the world: Pacha Ibiza, Ushuaïa, Hï Ibiza, and Fabric London. Particularly famous is their Cercle performance at Machu Picchu (Peru) — one of the most viral electronic sets on YouTube.
UPPERGROUND Label and Collaborations
In 2021, the duo launched their own label, UPPERGROUND, a platform for melodic and atmospheric releases. Among their standout tracks released there are “Horizon”, “Coming Home”, and “Origin”. Collaborators and guests on the label include Argy, WhoMadeWho, CamelPhat, and Another Life.
Artbat have also worked with Monolink, Agents of Time, Shouse, and other renowned artists, creating cross-genre hits performed on major stages worldwide.
Sound and Style
Artbat’s signature sound combines melodic progression, deep bass, cinematic textures, and powerful drops. Their tracks stand out for their production clarity, emotional richness, and universality — equally fitting for massive festivals and intimate club sets.
Social and Cultural Impact
Following the full-scale war in 2022, Artbat became active in charity initiatives, participating in international live streams and festivals supporting Ukraine. They donate funds to relief efforts, launch campaigns under the #StandWithUkraine banner, and promote Ukrainian music on the global stage.
Awards and Recognition
- Winners of the Best Melodic House & Techno Artist category at the Beatport Awards
- Featured in the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs and Top 10 Alternative DJs
- Millions of streams on Spotify and Apple Music
- Residents of BBC Radio 1, Tomorrowland One World Radio, and Full Moon Radio
Current Status and Future Plans (2025)
In 2025, Artbat continue to tour actively across Europe, America, and Asia, develop their label UPPERGROUND, and work on a new studio album. Their latest releases — “In Your Arms”, “Remember”, and “Best of Me” (feat. Another Life) — reaffirm their leadership in the melodic techno genre.
Legacy
Artbat are more than just DJs — they are ambassadors of the Ukrainian electronic scene. Their contribution to the rise of progressive house and melodic techno has made them among the most influential artists of the decade. They continue to inspire a new generation of producers, proving that Ukrainian music resonates on the highest international level.
