Alec Empire, born Alexander Wilke-Steinhof on May 2, 1972 in Berlin, Germany, is a prolific musician and a driving force in the electronic and underground music scene. As a founder of the seminal digital hardcore group Atari Teenage Riot, Empire's work is characterized by its blend of punk, techno, and noise elements, which is marked by a strong anti-fascist and anti-authoritarian political stance. His solo work showcases a broad array of influences, venturing into genres ranging from ambient to breakbeat to industrial, always maintaining an edgy and experimental approach.

Empire's discography as a solo artist is extensive and diverse with works such as "The Destroyer" to the soundtrack "Volt," reflecting his versatility in music production. Notably, his "The Golden Foretaste of Heaven" displays a tempered style combining electronic beats with rock elements, while albums like "Futurist" and "Shivers" provide a glimpse of his ability to merge the abrasive energy of digital hardcore with other electronic sub-genres. A live performer of considerable repute, he has captivated audiences with the same intensity seen in studio recordings, exemplified in releases like "Live CBGB's NYC" and "The CD2 Sessions Live in London." Empire remains an influential figure in electronic music, not just for his innovative soundscapes, but also for his relentless push against the boundaries of music and political discourse.