I first discovered Kryspin Kucharczyk, a Polish techno producer and DJ, through one of my favorite techno mix series: So Deeply. Although English isn’t his first language, Kryspin is incredibly well-spoken and confident in his ability to cross both cultural and musical barriers to bring good techno and deep house to those who seek it. What impressed me most about Kryspin’s mentality is his forward thinkingness; he knows he still has a far way to go as a producer, and this shows in some of his answers. Without further ado, let So Deeply 12 be the soundtrack to your reading.
If you could sit across from an eighteen-year-old Kryspin right now, with all the current knowledge of music you have, what advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell myself, “get a real job, man.” But seriously, I’d tell my younger self: work harder than you’re working now and don’t dwell on current trends in music. Just do whatever you feel and try to find you own style. Also keep a distance from your failures and don’t believe in everything people say. Keeping a positive attitude is what counts.
Tell us about yourself. What makes you stand out?
What makes me stand out? I think the biggest difference between me and many producers is that I make my tracks by myself from A to Z, without any loops, sample packs, or any other kits that most other people use.
Why did you start DJing and producing?
As a kid I started playing guitar and piano, so it was just a matter of time to start producing my own music. I’m not that young, so I still remember times when making tracks on your own computer was something new. The idea that I can make music with just my computer was very exciting for me. The whole creative process—and the fact that I can share it with other people—makes me feel good. I couldn’t imagine life without it.
What software did you start out on?
My first experience with music software, believe it or not, was Hip Hop eJay, but it didn’t have many options and my creativity was limited to few loops, so I started using FL Studio. I stuck with it for many years, but now I’m using Logic.
If you were a new producer today, with no music knowledge or following, outline your schedule and tools you would use in your first year to have the biggest impact on the music industry.
The internet gives you many possibilities, so start getting some contacts to people in the industry—like other producers, DJs, and labels. I think knowing the right people is the most important thing right now cause there’s so much great music all around and it’s really hard to stand out.
Take us through your creative process. Do you have any rituals?
The whole process begins in my head, mostly when I’m walking on the street. I’m trying to get inspiration from everything that surrounds me. I like to close up in my own world and define music elements as something tangible, something that shows some kind of situation.
What’s your favorite sample pack? Do you synthesize your own sounds?
Well, to be honest, I’m the one that makes them. I’m one of the founders of Loopoholics sample label. Mostly I’m making my own sounds. The only packs that I use are with vocals or drums.
Do you need to be in the studio to produce?
I’ve just bought a new laptop and mini keyboard, so now I can produce wherever I am—which makes me happy as hell. Of course, the studio is still important for some finishing touches.
Who are your biggest inspirations?
Life is my biggest inspiration. The people I love and the situations I find myself in inspire me.
What have been your top three musical accomplishments?
I hope my music accomplishments are yet to come; I only started producing house music a year ago. It’s just too early to brag about things I’ve achieved.
What genres define you?
I’ve been making hip hop beats for a long time. I only got into house and techno four years ago. I liked it so much that I decided to start producing it and it sticks with me to this day.
What are your favorite plugins to use?
For mixing and mastering I’m using Izotope Ozone, Cytomic, Waves, Sugar Bytes Turnado, and Sausage Fattener by Dada Life. As for virtual instruments, I use NI Komplete 9, U-he Diva, NI Massive, and Nexus.
Do you have any advice on promoting music?
Just use any social media possible, keep networking with people and try to show your work everywhere you can.
What producers have impressed you the most in the last year?
I’ve been really impressed by Olivier Giacomotto, Hot Since 82, Martin Roth, Eelke Kleijn, and Booka Shade.
What’s your favorite set you’ve ever played?
I haven’t been DJing for long, so I hope my favourite sets are yet to come.
