In conversation with Derek V Bulcke
by Maeve de Bordóns Álvarez
22 February 2024
Derek V Bulcke is a DJ, producer and visual artist from Murcia, Spain. His DJ career started in 2015, rooted in the Trap and Vaporwave scene in Granada. Since then he’s been involved in many collectives and projects that focus on club culture, with a sound spanning from Trance, Breakbeat, Flamenco and more experimental sounds.
Derek V Bulcke
Hi, First of all, how have you been?
Hi, It’s been a few amazing months between Spain and Colombia, full of gigs in wonderful places with lovely people. I’m really thankful to life for all the opportunities that are coming my way!
Could you tell us a bit about what projects you’re working on and your inspiration for this mix?
I’m very linked to Flamenco music, and pop music from my roots, but also with electronic and avant-garde music from all over the world. Currently I’m working on different dance pieces and contemporary art exhibitions, creating sonic landscapes. On the other hand, my career as a DJ brings me closer to more experimental club culture sounds. I think all of these elements are reflected in my sets, and for this mix I’ve been interested in broken beats influenced by the UK.
Who are a few of the artists and labels that inspire you?
Aphex Twin and Ben Frost are two big references that always accompany me, as well as the labels that they usually collaborate with. Lately I listen a lot to Hudson Mohawke and Donwhill2k01. In terms of labels, I respect Warp, ATW, Live From Earth, and Nervous Horizon are a goldmine. From Spain, I really like Noise POllution Recordings, El Alminar and Ecco Records.
Derek playing a DJ set
What does it mean to you to evolve as an artist?
To me, evolving as an artist means being conscious of the place in that you´re positioned in each moment and expressing yourself according to this. It means questioning yourself as well, and seeing if you’re satisfied. It’s a constant process of honesty, that has to do with the creative process as an act of necessity, without letting it get contaminated by external elements external to art. Evolution doesn’t have anything to do with success, but with pure transformation.
What is an artist or album that has left a mark on you?
In line with my previous answer, “drukQs” by Aphex Twin and “Theory of machines” by Ben Frost changed something deep in me.
What projects do you have for 2024?
At 2024 is coming in strong! I will keep releasing new music that I’m still working on, including a few new pieces of contemporary dance that will see the light this year. I also have an art exhibtion in my calendar, as well as playing out in more clubs and festivals all over the world!
Derek performing a DJ set on stage
Keep up with Derek V Bulcke on Instagram and Soundcloud