Experimental pioneer Sd Laika has died, family confirms

The news confirms social media rumours that had been circulating in recent weeks, with the Tri Angle Records affiliate passing away in late 2023.

Pioneering experimental producer Peter Runge, a.k.a. Sd Laika, has died.

In a statement to Mixmag, a member of his family confirmed social media rumours, which had been circulating in recent weeks suggesting the Tri Angle Records affiliate had passed away last year.

It read: “Peter was an immensely talented and original musician. He was also a super funny, smart, and kind-hearted person. Our family loves and misses him. We’re grateful to everyone in the music community who enjoyed and supported the art that meant so much to him.”

Runge was born and based in Milwaukee, USA, and is remembered for his searing, dystopian take on grime-influenced beats. After releasing his debut EP Unknown Vectors in 2012 via Visionist’s Lost Codes label, he was signed by revered experimental imprint Tri Angle Records, on which he released his debut and only LP That’s Harakiri in 2014. The album was widely acclaimed, with Aphex Twin saying in a 2014 interview that “some kid called Sd Laika” was one of his favourite new musicians at the time.

Tri Angle’s founder, Robin Carolan told Mixmag: “When I heard his music for the first time I was immediately aware that I was listening to something truly original and incredibly forward-thinking.

“I don’t think Peter ever quite comprehended how good his music was, which is part of the reason I was so happy we were finally able to get That’s Harakiri out into the world, especially now given what’s happened,” he continued. “It exists as a testament to a musician who was genuinely operating in his own lane, and a record I’ve always been immensely proud to have been given the opportunity to put out on Tri Angle. RIP Laika.”

Revisit That’s Harikiri and read some tributes to Sd Laika below.

 

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