Erik Rico Talks d.4 pro
Erik Rico
(Skilled producer, solid Sound Designer)
What made you become a DJ?
After years of bringing in DJs to scratch on various hip-hop projects, producing and dealing with scheduling conflicts, I purchased my first turntable. Then, before I knew it, I got a second one and started playing out (after checking other DJ's in the scene and feeling that my musical tastes and skills were up to par), so it kinda' happened by default. I was immediately hired to do live sound design for a famous photographer (David la Chapelle), which served as a great way to pack what would've taken several years to learn in 2+ years, as he's EXTREMELY demanding style-wise and you have to be able to shift gears on the fly, often time playing 10 to 14 hour days in every imaginable situation and environment.
What was your most exciting DJ gig to date, and why?
My greatest time DJ’ing—I'd have to say—was my time spent working with David, as I was ALWAYS under the gun and it forced me to become more skilled in every way. I LOVE all types of music and it gave me the platform to experiment and to learn to do a lot of things on the fly. It was extremely intense on a lot of levels. When you're used to playing for 10 hours or more in various styles, a 2 or 4 hour club gig is nothing!!
Who do you currently produce?
I'm currently working on collabs with Ron Trent, AB, Daz I-Kue, Yam Who, Yuka Tatsuhara, Ladybug Mecca, various projects for LifeNotes Music and others.
What projects/albums do you have coming out in the fall?
I've got all of the projects mentioned above dropping this summer/fall and talks in the works about a few more things, you know...gotta keep grindin'. Also, be on the lookout for my new EP, which will be delivered just in time for this year's WMC in Miami…got some live PA's coming up there to promote the record.
How do you like the Mackie d.4 pro?
It's incredible. The way that it works…man, it suits all my needs, I can use it as a mobile recording interface AND as a live console for "interactive" DJ sets. And, as with ALL Mackie products, it's built like a tank! I've owned several pieces of Mackie gear over the years and to see the growth of the company as it relates to modern technology is awesome, they read my mind with this one!
What is your favorite feature on the d.4 pro mixer?
My favorite feature...here we go: FireWire connectivity, great-feeling crossfader, phantom power, software compatibility, great sounding outputs, and on and on and on....
What separates Mackie products from the rest in the game?
Professional features at a great price point, long lasting components, ease of use and a well-deserved reputation for being indestructible.
Why did you decide to endorse Mackie personally?
After years of using Mackie products, when the opportunity arose to become involved with the company, I JUMPED at the chance. Mackie is a forward-thinking company with a rich history for manufacturing GREAT products, so it's a great marriage for me and what I do musically. My tools have to be transparent and this product is just that.
How much do you use computers for making music (recording or spinning)?
In every way, EVERY day! I'm a computer-based producer for sure, and this platform allows me to make moves that I couldn't otherwise make.
Have you used—or do you plan to use—the FireWire capability of the d.4 pro in your music?
Oh, yes indeed. I plan to use the FireWire connectivity for DJ sets, for my live act (when we have to roll with a compact setup) and for mobile recording when on the road. Believe me, it'll be put to MAJOR use in every capacity. Once I get deep into Abelton, it'll be the main interface for that as well.
