DKOI / dj

Origins: How did you first get into drum and bass? Was there a particular artist or track that sparked your interest?

I think my introduction to dnb was overhearing an Eksman set playing on someone’s phone. I’d never heard anything like it before. Then a few years later when I was old enough to go out my mate took me to a playaz night at fabric and I was hooked.

First Decks: What was the first piece of DJ equipment you ever owned, and do you still have it?

2 x numark belt drives and a UREI mixer, I could only afford 4 vinyls at the time so I would just practise with them over and over again until It kind of sounded alright. I’ve still got the mixer somewhere but the decks are where they belong, in the bin.

Influential Tracks: Which three drum and bass tracks have had the most significant impact on your career or personal taste?

The first track I wouldn’t stop listening to was Tarantula by Pendulum, when it first came out I would just play it on repeat. Original sin - Cheater Cheater is another one that brings back good memories and Hazard - Killers Dont Die.




















Sound Evolution: How has your sound evolved since you first started DJing? Are there any genres outside of drum and bass that have influenced this evolution?

When I first started mixing there wasn’t loads of sub genres it was just drum and bass so for years I would mix everything. I still try to incorporate all aspects on dnb into my sets but it’s mainly jump up. I’ve messed around mixing house and garage but it just dosent do it for me.

Creative Process: What’s your typical process for preparing a set? Do you prefer to plan meticulously or improvise based on the crowd's vibe?

Sometimes I will have the whole set planned then sometimes I’ll just jump between playlists/blends depending on how the crowd is reacting.

Crowd Connection: What’s your favourite part of performing live, and how do you connect with the crowd during your sets?

Just being behind the decks and dropping a banger and hearing the crowd reaction is what gets me going. If the crowd ain’t feeling it then I’ll switch up the style of dnb I’m playing.

Career Milestones: What’s the most memorable gig you've ever played, and what made it stand out?

Under 2023 was easily the best gig I’ve ever played at. From the aesthetics to the vibe from the crowd it was mind blowing.

Inspiration Sources: What inspires you outside of music?

Watching the people around me win at life makes me push myself to achieve the things I want in life.

DJ Challenges: What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a DJ, and how did you overcome it?

Deciding to actually do something about playing out. I was mixing for years before I decided to push for it. I overcame it by just having a word with myself

Personal Playlist: What are your go-to non-drum and bass tracks or artists when you’re relaxing or need a break from the genre?

I like a lot of rock music, 90s/2000s rap. I listen to all sorts if I’m honest.

Learning Moments: What’s one mistake you made early in your career that taught you a valuable lesson?

Letting Dux stay at my house

Life Balance: How do you balance your career as a DJ with your personal life? What do you do to unwind?

I love cooking and making banging food, that’s normally what I’m doing if I’m not in the studio.

Advice to New DJs: What advice would you give to someone just starting in the drum and bass scene?

Just be yourself, practice loads and don’t start giving it the big spuds because you’ve played one set.

Upcoming Projects: Are there any upcoming projects, releases, or events you’re particularly excited about?

I’ve got a guest mix for UP4IT dropping really soon. And my first release on a label coming out at the end of July.

Legacy Goals: What do you hope to achieve in your career, and what do you want your legacy in drum and bass to be?

I want to be in the studio Monday to Friday making tunes and playing out every night of the week.

Favourite Venues: Do you have a favourite venue or festival to play at, and why does it hold a special place for you?

Bristol carnival purely because of the amount of people and how vibey it looks.

Off the Decks: When you’re not DJing or making music, what are your hobbies or passions?

I used to skateboard a lot but my knees have had it now so if I’m not in the studio or doom scrolling TikTok I’ll probably be watching brain dead American tv.

Personal Goals: Outside of music, what’s one personal goal you’re working towards?

Quitting my job to pursue music full time.

Mixing Mayhem: What's your secret to covering up a trainwreck mix? Asking for a friend.

Just slam in some Belgium and jump around