K-rAd. Bad-boy brainiacs and techno-chic ladies can figure out this pseudonym with relative ease…for the rest, think “K” = 1,000 and “rAd” = well, radical, to say the least. K-rAd is Chris Grabowski, Chicago sound engineer and electronic musician. Known for using “outmoded” tech toys, computer gear, and instruments for samples and inspiration, K-rAd’s brand of minimal sound is well-crafted, dj-friendly, and fresh (yet somehow familiar). Since its conception in 1996, K-rAd has been a subtle, but respected presence in the Chicago music scene, garnering acclaim (three critic’s choice awards from the Chicago Reader), compilation features (Select, Tarpop, Lumptronica, the Salvo Beta Remix Project, and Illuminance Records), and even commissions (Burton Snowboards, General Motors, Nike, and VH1). K-rAd has long been known as a collaborative work, with creative partners adding their own unique touches, but for the past two major releases (T12CD, OuTLeT) Grabowski has been flying solo. From custom-making cables to mastering on Dunlavy speakers, Grabowski’s work as a sound engineer highly influences his work as an artist; this combination musician/electrician/engineer has even custom built his own midi-controller from scratch. As a producer, his work always holds the comfort and accommodation of the dj in mind, with plenty of time for smooth blends and an open quality for djs to take his tracks and make them their own. Because of his commitment to sound quality, this is one producer who won’t jack everything to the limits and sacrifice the dynamic range, making him unique in a time where many consider louder to somehow be better. Admittedly, Grabowski’s mission in life is to, “just make the sound perfect every place I hear music”—so the party can last, so the listeners can keep dancing with less fatigue, so the music can exist in a more authentic and beautiful way. No small task, but for a man whose sole purpose in life is sculpting air, Grabowski is indeed K-rAd.