Vladimir Dubyshkin is a name that resonates deeply within the techno music community. Hailing from Russia, this enigmatic artist has carved out a niche for himself with his unique approach to the genre, blending deep, hypnotic rhythms with intricate soundscapes. Dubyshkin’s journey from a music enthusiast in Russia to a globally recognized techno artist is a testament to his talent, creativity, and relentless pursuit of artistic expression. Vladimir shares with 6AM his journey into electronic music, creative processes, influences, challenges, and future plans, highlighting his unique approach and experiences in the techno scene.

 

How did you first get into electronic music, and what drew you specifically to techno?

I’ve been listening to music since childhood, it all started with music TV channels where electronic music genres were played. Experimental/dance music appeared much later. At that time, I listened to Drum’n’Bass and tried to produce my first tracks, later I came up with techno.

 

Can you tell us about the music scene in your hometown and how it influenced your musical style?

My hometown has no scene at all, as it is a deep province that barely catches the modern world, trends, way of thinking but it somehow resonates with my emotions and eventually turns into music.

 

Who are some of your biggest musical influences?

I think “The Prodigy” and 90s rave music.

 

What is your creative process like when producing a new track?

I don't have any specific rules while creating a track. Usually, I make sketches which I then finish.

 

How do you approach live performances compared to studio recordings?

In the past, I recorded individual parts of tracks for shows and mixed them with recorded sequences and FX from semi-modular Arturia synth or Erebus. Nowadays, I have moved away from this method and play prepared material.

 

Can you share a memorable experience from one of your live shows?

The most memorable was probably my performance in Paris during the pandemic, it was almost a festival event with thousands of people, where I got drunk and the next day I woke up in intensive care with allergic uvulitis.

 

How do you stay inspired and keep your music fresh?

I still treat it as a hobby and do not follow trends.

 

What challenges have you faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?

Over the last couple of years, there have been a lot of obstacles, starting with the pandemic, moving, and emotional burnout from music, but I continue to do it as it’s already a habit.

 

How has the techno scene in Russia evolved over the years?

In fact, I never followed this because I don’t go to nightclubs in normal life.

 

What role do you think technology plays in the future of electronic music?

Currently, technology is developing at a breakneck speed, who knows whether the very concept of a musician will exist or it will already be an operator who only edits parts of the track. Now you can already see various plugins with AI capabilities and, frankly, the result is impressive.

 

Can you talk about a particular track or album that you’re especially proud of?

I like "Hilton’s Bio Accessory" from my latest album, typical rustic trance vibe, with a hint of Russian glamour from the 2000s. Unfortunately, there wasn't enough space on the record to release it on vinyl.

 

How do you see your music evolving in the next few years?

Know the classics and listen to various genres.

 

What advice would you give to aspiring techno DJs and producers?

Know the classics and listen to various genres.

 

How do you balance maintaining your unique sound while experimenting with new ideas?

I started collaborating with the label in 2015-2016, during all this time I had no complaints or misunderstandings with the label boss. Kraviz is fine with her artists, allowing me to experiment with genres, bypassing mainstream.

 

Can you describe your experience working with the Trip label and Nina Kraviz?

I started collaborating with the label in 2015-2016, during all this time I had no complaints or misunderstandings with the label boss. Kraviz is fine with her artists, allowing me to experiment with genres, bypassing mainstream.

 

What are some non-musical influences that inspire your work?

Besides music, I collect perfume. I think scents really awaken certain flashbacks in our memory, just like the music that sounded in childhood, as far as I remember this is called the Proust effect.

 

How do you handle criticism and feedback from fans and critics?

Do I have personal critics? Show me your faces! I love and respect my listeners, that’s what I wanna say.

 

What’s your favorite piece of equipment or software in your studio setup?

Probably my PC and mouse... oh, I completely forgot a comfortable chair! While working with sound, I prefer the sampling way of creating, using old ethnic material, it can be Turkish folk, insect recording, or together. I also have a small modular synthesizer but over time I realized that it doesn’t fit my workflow and it just stands like an expensive Christmas fir tree with a garland of cables.

 

How do you approach collaborations with other artists?

I'm not interested yet.

 

What’s next for Vladimir Dubyshkin? Any upcoming projects or performances you’re excited about?

You know what they say, if you wanna give God a laugh, tell Him your plans. Actually, I really look forward to the Creamfields festival show in the UK, looks huge.

 

How about a visit to the States? We hear that's in the cards for you next, are you excited about it?

Yes, this is one of the few countries that I haven't visited yet, but which is talked about a lot!

 

Connect with Vladimir Dubyshkin: Resident Advisor | Facebook | Soundcloud