IN CONVERSATION WITH DUKWA
interview by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
Dukwa, alias of Marco D'Aquino, is one of the most vibrant forces in Italian electronic music today. Born in Florence, he blends raw club energy with melodic, atmospheric textures to forge a sound that’s equally suited to warehouse dancefloors and introspective headphone moments. Having caught the attention of major players like Peggy Gou, Solomun, and Seth Troxler, Dukwa continues to evolve—driven by instinct, emotion, and a deep commitment to artistic honesty. His debut album Zeitgeist, out on Slacker85, captures the highs and lows of this journey, translating his years of dual life as a gardener-by-day, producer-by-night into something deeply personal and powerful.
What first drew you into music? Was there a defining moment or perhaps an influence?
My earliest musical memories go back to buying Michael Jackson cassettes as a kid at the mall. Then came the MTV mornings before school—mesmerizing. But the lightning bolt was Daft Punk. Still, the spark that led me to become a producer came from my brother Giacomo. He was already making music and introduced me to early versions of Ableton. That discovery quickly turned into a passion—and eventually, a profession.
How did Florence’s record store culture and rave scene shape your early sound?
After getting into electronic music, and with a little help from MySpace (yes, I’m that old), I connected with like-minded people in Florence. That led to real friendships and early music projects—like Life’s Track with Herva—and later, the whole Bosconi Records crew, which offered opportunities that are rare today. I was inspired by the first Lattex Plus parties at Club21, nights at Tenax with incredible lineups, and the underground scene in general, including private parties. That time was essential in shaping my vision.
What emotions or memories fueled Zeitgeist?
Zeitgeist was born the moment I quit my full-time job. For years, I balanced producing music with working as a gardener. Finally deciding to give my full focus to music led to a wave of experimentation. Euphoria, passion, sadness, loneliness—these emotions guided the album. The classic creative rollercoaster. After many years, I’ve learned to embrace that rhythm and channel it into the sound.
Did you approach this debut album differently from your past releases?
Not really—the way I produce hasn’t changed. But as I’ve grown personally, that’s naturally affected the outcome. The process is still instinctive and hands-on, but the result reflects who I am today.
‘All You Need’ feels like a statement; where did that mantra come from?
I was looking for a vocal that could hit me emotionally. Then—like a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat—I stumbled on that phrase. Its meaning hit me so deeply, I knew I had to build the track around it.
Do you think in genres when producing, or do you follow instinct?
Definitely instinct. I let the flow guide me. For instance, my EP on Shall Not Fade was produced at the same time as Zeitgeist, but the moods and styles are completely different. I never sit down thinking, “Today I’ll make a house track.”
How do you balance raw club energy with more cinematic, emotional tracks?
It’s like cooking with very different ingredients. I’ve developed a taste—my own sense of balance—so even though the combinations may seem complicated from the outside, it all feels natural to me.
What made Slacker85 and Seth Troxler the right home for this project?
I’ve always felt a musical closeness to Seth, and as I got to know him, I saw that we share a similar vision. So choosing Slacker85 for this release was easy. In a moment where club culture is struggling—with venues shutting down and image taking precedence over substance—it means a lot to have artists like Seth still backing real music. I’m proud to be part of this family. Like I said at the first Slacker85 party in Italy: the music world doesn’t need something new—it needs something real.
What’s been your most memorable dancefloor moment as a DJ so far?
Let me name three: my DJ set at Circoloco at DC10 in Ibiza, my live set at Panorama Bar in Berlin, and another live set at Cocoricò in Riccione. And I’ll be back at Panorama Bar on May 25—hopefully I can add that to the list too. I’ll keep you posted, haha!
As a fashion magazine, we have to ask! How does style factor into your creative world?
I’m slowly getting into it. I love unique shoes and accessories like hats, but I wouldn’t call myself a fashion person—yet. Until now, any spare time I had went into the studio, and every euro went toward instruments, not clothes. So I haven’t had much chance to explore. But I’m getting there. For now, think of me as a “normal guy”—which, these days, is kind of rare.
See you around—and remember, don’t judge a book by its cover.
