Anushka Chkheidze is a Tbilisi, Georgia-born, Utrecht, Netherlands-based composer, producer, and artist whose sound is versatile, flowing between experimental ambient/electronic, site-specific composition, serene IDM, and a whole lot more. With releases on CES Records and ISA Records, we have enjoyed listening to Anushka Chkheidze grow and develop as an artist and are excited to have her contribute to our mixtape series

Tracklist HAND – Unreleased Track
Vagin, Air – Le Voyage De Pénélope
DjRUM – Waxcap
Koreless – Seven
Sportsmanship•Sandro Tavartkiladze – PETQAVS
M-Ziq – Unheard
Anushka Chkheidze – Halfie
Irakli Choladze – kindness
Irakli Choladze – Darwinian 1.0
Ani Zakareishvili – Don’t go yet

Can you run us through the concept of your mixtape and why you chose love?

I wouldn’t say I chose love—it kind of chose itself. I was putting a set together and realized all the tracks I picked were activating something emotional in me. Not just romantic love, but a mix of empowerment, melancholy, vulnerability, strength. It wasn’t planned, but in the end, the set became about love—at least from my perspective.

How does love affect the music you make and listen to?

When I’m making music, the process is always full of love and joy. I give myself completely to it—it feeds me. In those moments, there’s nothing else, just music. And when I listen to music that makes me fall in love with people or life itself, that’s when I know it’s truly powerful. I really believe music can change a person’s personality. Maybe that sounds naive, but I believe it with all my heart. Otherwise, I don’t think I could do this.

How have your live performances developed over the years?

My live performances are constantly evolving. I’ve been getting more curious about acoustic instruments, and I’m learning to challenge myself more. I don’t want to stay hidden behind my laptop—I want to move more freely, to be more vulnerable and expressive on stage. It’s never about the technology for me. Emotionally, I often leave the stage feeling like I wasn’t good enough—I always say “this was my last live set.” But then I compose again, and I realize that playing live actually helps me improve. The best ideas are always born in the moment. And then I think… maybe I really should do this for the rest of my life.

I’m slowly becoming more open to sharing what music has given me. I’m still learning to let go of my insecurities and lose myself completely in the process.

What have been some significant influences outside of music?

I was so much into dance—I actually thought about becoming a dancer. Maybe one day I’ll find a way to really connect those two worlds again. I’ve had some small try-outs, and I really love making music for dance pieces. There’s something so powerful about how sound and movement speak to each other without words. I definitely feel there’s more to explore there.

What can we expect from your production and live performances in the future?

And right now, I’m still full of energy from the premiere I did at Monheim Triennale on July 4th. That moment pushed something forward in me—creatively and emotionally. I’m ready to take more risks. Expect more live shows. Me, robots, and organs. I’m not aiming for perfection—I want something that feels only real.