Dragomir chats about his upcoming release on Micro Orbit

We profiled Vern’s brilliant Micro Orbit debut a while back, and this time around we’re putting the spotlight on fledgling Romanian DJ/producer, Dragomir. A man who’s very much on the up, he’s someone who boasts an intricate and heavily nuanced sound, as evidenced from his contribution to the Micro Orbit story, ‘Revision’.

Released as part of the Milan vinyl label’s excellent Origins Series Vol 1, it’s indicative of the producer’s (and indeed, the label’s) knack for the sort of fascinating, minimal techno that’s made with the night’s trippier and weirder moments. Released alongside other star turns from the likes of RQZ, Vid, and Selidos, it’s further proof of a label on the ascendency. So who better to talk to about the track than the man behind it? Without further ado, here’s what happened when we put some questions to Dragomir recently…

Let’s start by talking about influences. Who has really stood out for you over the years?

Ricardo Villalobos is one of the most influential artists for me, apart from him I could mention Bruno Pronsato, Laurin Frost, and Cezar, who fall on the minimal side. I make an effort to listen to a wide variety of music that sounds very different from one another. Lately I’ve been discovering a lot of old music, which is quite new to me and really inspired me to go beyond the minimal sphere. A few other influences worth mentioning are Moritz von Oswald and the Esbjörn Svensson Trio.

Could you share some pivotal moments or experiences that shaped your musical journey and contributed to the distinctive style we hear in your productions today?

A crucial moment was quitting college to fully focus on music. Even before diving into electronic music, I had a deep connection with music from a young age, involving myself in activities like writing lyrics, singing, and even trying my hand at rapping, though I mostly kept those experiments to myself. I believe what truly shaped my distinctive sound was my persistent need for experimentation—constantly changing my workflow, engaging in the perpetual fight to step out of my comfort zone.

Is music a full-time thing for you? Or what else takes up a lot of your time?

Music is my full-time pursuit, and the journey has had its share of ups and downs. However, I genuinely believe that everything is evolving organically toward a positive direction. I aspire to broaden my knowledge to other realms of music, such as sound design, experimental music, art installations, and film. In fact, I recently composed my first introductory track for a short movie this year, called Enzo & Mateo.

Your music often carries a certain emotional depth. How do you translate personal experiences or emotions into your productions, and do you find this process cathartic?

Every day unfolds its own unique story. The beauty of working on music lies in the extraction of emotions, and trusting those feelings is crucial. I firmly believe that each day offers a new tale to tell. Based on that, I can jam out an idea to express let it all out or take a more planned approach around which could be the best instruments and harmonies. It's not always about releasing emotions; I see it more as a way to develop myself.

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You’re appearing on Micro Orbit’s latest VA alongside the likes of RQZ, Vid, and Selidos. Tell us a bit about your contribution to the EP, and how it all came about?

Well the label owner, Michele, contacted me in order to contribute to the release, which I was more than happy too. Zenk is a really cool and professional person, it was a pleasure to collaborate with him.

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As someone who’s released only a few records thus far, where does this one stand alongside the others? Are you always looking to 'improve' on your last release? Or do you think of it like that?

I find it a bit challenging to speak about my own work, haha. However, I believe my mindset has been consistent with everything I've released—always striving to make it the best it can be. There's perpetual room for improvement, and given that music is an endless topic, I'm confident this creative process will continue to thrive as strongly as it has so far.

Are there any specific venues or events in the city that hold a special place in your heart, and how have they contributed to your growth as an artist?

The Guesthouse on Popa Nan was really a shaping place for my taste in music and also events like Sintezaur can create a nice environment. The sense of community at such events is valuable and it would be lovely to have more of those around.

Going back to your early days in music, what sparked your initial interest in becoming a DJ/producer, and how did your musical journey unfold from there?

My first musical experience was at the age of six when I visited the studio of the band Proconsul. Singing in the studio left a lasting impression on me, I think maybe that’s why I tend to try to use my voice into tracks!

Many artists have a defining moment that solidifies their commitment to a career in music. Can you share a specific turning point in your career that fueled your passion and dedication to the craft?

Personally, I don't believe a specific moment fueled my passion; rather, certain experiences ignited something that had been there for a long time. Witnessing my track being played for the first time in front of people at Mioritmic by Mihigh was a pretty dope moment. Another moment that made me realise that I might actually have a thing for this would be when I got my first gig abroad at Supermarket Club, in Zurich. I think, for me personally, the honesty and good thoughts of those around me, coupled with the desire to express myself, fuel my commitment to music.

In an era dominated by digital platforms, how do you balance staying true to your artistic vision while also adapting to the changing landscape of music consumption and distribution?

Although social media is an opportunity, allowing everyone to have a shot at a music career, I fell it influences the music industry in a very toxic way, because artists can't always be entertainers too. Healthy content, showcasing one's craft, is important, that's my take on it.

Can you reflect on a moment in your career where you faced a significant challenge and how you overcame it, emerging stronger as an artist?

The pandemic brought significant challenges, disrupting planned gigs and opportunities. Coupled with some personal issues, it led me to quite difficult places. However, even in challenging situations, there's a unique charm. I believe that during this period, I've created the most meaningful music so far.

Exploring the roots of your musical journey, are there specific mentors or individuals who played a crucial role in shaping your skills and guiding you in the early stages of your career?

I honestly think I'm still in the early phase of my career, and so far, I can't say I've had a mentor. However, individuals like Maher Daniel, Charlie, Mihigh, Jay Tripwire and even the duo Pan Pot had given me opportunities to release and play music in some really cool places/labels

Looking ahead, what can we expect from Dragomir in the coming months? Are there any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon that you can tell us about?

I'm thrilled about the many releases set to come out in the following period, 2024 sounds pretty exciting. Some highlights include collaborations with Creature, The Other Side, Nervous Records, and a new label that Pan Pot will be opening very soon.

Wish you the best and stay creative! :D

Keep up with Dragomir on Bandcamp, Soundcloud, Spotify and YouTube  

Buy/listen to Origins Series Vol 1 by Micro Orbit Records (featuring Dragomir’s Revision here)