SPZL Artist Series: Dave Clarke
Acclaimed music producer and radio presenter Dave Clarke, dubbed as the 'Baron of Techno', collaborated with SPEZIAL for the release of a remix track for 'Manifest' EP. He recently took some time to talk to us about his influences, inspiration and work so far in the music industry.
What initially inspired you to pursue a career in music?
Music inspired me from a very young age, my father was deeply into hi fi and technology and my mother was more into the ‘music’. My parents used to argue all the time and so, like many kids of that time I closed my bedroom door and escaped from all of that into vinyl singles and albums, The technology side of my father intrigued me so I got into recording and over dubbing at a young age, I am really glad of his influence as his focus helped me take it to another level.
I also think I grew up in the right time and place – with Punk/ Ska/ New Wave / Disco/ Soul/ Hip Hop and the great records shops of Brighton – it was a very edgy place for culture. There were also great music shops like The Tape Shop and, strangely, at the back of my newsagent round the corner a Yamaha tech shop where I bought my first drum machine after saving my money from working in a shoe shop.
I left school young, technically expelled, with hardly any qualifications and few options. I almost joined the Army as they had a tax-free bonus on joining which I thought could get me some great studio equipment! Luckily that didn’t happen, I got a job that was enough to pay for a bedsit and independence, I scrimped and saved, and my father would help too. I didn’t have career options but that meant I was free to pursue my passion unimpeded by expectation; and so, I took a 7-day course in music technology at Sussex University which cemented my focus.
Tell us a little about your studio - where its located, the set-up, any equipment highlights
My studio is in Amsterdam and comprises of a hybrid of in the box and hardware, ultra powerful top of the range Mac Pro, a few screens 20 hardware comps, out board processors and EQ, 56 channels out the box into Analog Mixer, ATC Monitors driven through Crane Song Advocet and, hopefully, a comfortable atmosphere.
What’s your favourite piece of equipment and why?
That’s a difficult one - I would say ATC speakers as they changed the game for me. I was a Tannoy person for decades - a passion/loyalty I inherited through my father - but ATC just opened everything up. I loved anything that David Hill (Cranesong) designed, and I adore Josephson Microphones.
What are some of the key elements you focus on when mixing a track?
Everything has to have meaning and earn its space and communicate purposefully with all the other elements.
What do you enjoy most about the production/mixing process?
The mixdown, which effectively starts after 60% of a track has already been created. For some people finishing a track is no fun, but for me it is the greatest pleasure.
How do you handle challenges or creatives blocks?
I swear a lot at my poor computer if there is a tech issue, anyone that has been with me in the studio takes a little while to get used to that, then they realise it is not aimed at them at all - and then they laugh at me.
If I have a block during a track or mix, I take a break, watch a video or listen to music from another genre, or go for a walk. I once had a block when working with Arthur Baker and I went out a mowed the lawn without explaining what was going on…I think he laughed and filmed it.
Do you tend to change or adapt the set-up of your studio significantly, and if so, what prompts the changes to how you work or use the space?
No not at all, when it works it works and the evolution is generally done in small incremental steps now.
How do you balance artistic creativity with technical precision in your work?
To be honest, without thinking about it and just doing.
Are there any specific genres or styles of music that you particularly enjoy working on?
I was greatly honoured to work remixing the SPEZIAL track; anything with a true and vibrant human element attracts me. My Saga Radio show showcases how broad my taste in music is, but also where I feel very comfortable working on.
What would be your advice to those looking to join the music industry, either as a producer or engineer, or to emerging recording artists?
I teach at a Conservatorium in Haarlem NL, and I tell my students there are no rules; trust your ears and imagination.
You have recently been working with SPEZIAL on song “Bad State” realised on the “Manifest” EP – What was it about the initial music that inspired you to want to work on this?
Poppy’s emotion and all the layers plus the guitar work - such a beautiful piece of music, it hit me on first listen.
What would you say was the most important piece of kit in making your remix for SPEZIAL and why?
My electricity connection, without it there would be nothing, everyone forgets the importance of electricity!
Dave Clarke interview from Music Rader Tech - Talking about his recent remix for Das SPEZIAL.