Interview: 5 minutes with Da Vosk Docta

Da Vosk Docta is an electronic producer and DJ currently based in Poland. Initially producing music with friends as a pastime activity, Da Vosk Docta started making waves across Europe and began to focus on this project more intently. Ditching hip-hop beats for deeply constructed electronic pieces, DVD now creates some of the most thought provoking sounds in the underground wave scene.

Utilizing an array of production techniques, sampling and drum sequencing, Da Vosk Docta has performed at Polish festivals, headlining at Czeluście and Up To Date Festivals in 2017. After releasing his debut album Even If U Didn’t Expect It last year, he is currently working on a follow up LP.

We caught up with Da Vosk Docta on adventurous jobs and listening to strange music:

Set the tone for us. Why the arts?

I started to produce music at the age of 18. I was looking for something to do in Summer and I downloaded FL STUDIO. The truth is, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my adult life. I didn’t want to be a guy who spends his entire life in the office. I needed a job that would provide adventures.

Which comes first when you’re producing – the sound or the idea?

I think it’s the idea. When I’m producing, I always trying to choose what I want to do before the sound design process. But it depends. Sometimes good ideas come in unexpected moments.

Does your material feature any collaborations?

On my debut album you can find collaborations with UK producer – Kareful and my polish friend – MYSTXRIVL.

What’s on your current playlist?

A lot of weird music. I discovered a guy named Karman, he’s making very original beats. I also listen to a lot of Ramzoid beats. Except that I listen to some ambient work and experimental music. A lot of stuff on my headphones. (Check my Spotify public playlist titled “DVD Selection #1”)

Tell us about the chemistry you have with your fans on stage.

It’s crazy! Especially in Poland, I always feel that the crowd understands my idea of a DJ set. I spin a lot my productions and undiscovered gems, and its works.

What techniques do you experiment with to get your original sound?

A lot of layering, sample digging and sound design. Basically I always experiment with saturation and fx processors, trying to set weird fx’s chains. Unusual chords help too.

Take us through a day in the recording studio.

My studio is my home PC with some gear. After I wake up and eat breakfast, I turn on the computer and start working.

Was there a specific moment in your life where you thought, “this is what I want to do”?

Yes, that was when I realized people seriously listen to my music.

What do you keep close by while you’re playing a set?

My dell laptop (very solid model, e4310), reloop controller, good quality cables and small headphones for mixing.

Any emerging artists on your radar?

Not really. But like I said, right now I listen a lot of Karman, Ramzoid. And Kamandi has a style I like.

What gets your creative juices flowing?

Sport, coffee and inspirational music.

Take us through your collection of gear, tech or software that accompanies your creative expression.

I’m working on an efficient PC with 16gb RAM and Intel I5 onboard. I also have JBL 305, DT 770 Pro and Yamaha HS8 monitors. Last year I bought some Waves plugins and they are very useful tools to mix with. And of course, a Focusrite interface.

Any side projects you’re working on?

I’ve been thinking about starting a side project as a rap beatmaker. But we’ll see.

How have you refined your craft since you entered the industry?

It comes naturally, I just spent a lot of time developing my craft in higher level, working on music even a couple of hours per day.

Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you this year?

I’m currently working on my second album! If all goes well – you will hear it after the summer holidays.

For more information follow Da Vosk Docta on Facebook