If we’re talking about Croatia’s up-and-comers on the electronic music scene, Elena Mikac is definitely among the young DJs who made a significant impact. Less than five years since she started DJing, she has won numerous awards and has been recognized in the industry. Last year she received an Ambasador NXT award as the best new DJ on the scene voted by the audience, while two years ago the industry professionals recognized her and awarded her with the Elector, as the New (S)elector of the year.
Elena is a part of the Dobar House record label and club night with DJ and producer Tom Bug, a brand that has become a symbol of house music in Croatia. We chatted with her about her career, Dobar House, and the electronic music scene in general.
You’ve been on the scene for five years and you’ve already won numerous awards and won the Elector and Ambassador awards for the best ‘newcomer’ of the scene. How and where did you start DJing, and when did you ‘fall in love’ with electronic music?
Hi Gracija, thanks for the invite and questions. It’s not exactly five years yet, but rather four and a few months. I was recently asked a similar question, and my answer remains unchanged—thanks to my parents and their musical taste, I was exposed to music from an early age. This made music an intrinsic part of my life and a constant source of pleasure as I explored various artists and genres. Even before I realized it, I was fascinated by music’s ability to universally express emotions and connect people in a given moment.
You are a member of the Dobar House collective and record label, and in the past few years, you have raised the brand to a higher level—you have become a resident of Defected Zagreb, filled clubs in Zagreb, and organized festivals at the iconic Barbarellas. What is your recipe for success, and how did DH become part of Elena Mikac’s identity (and vice versa)?
This will sound cliché, but the truth is, at least in my case, that I need to genuinely love and believe in what I am doing, and nothing will ever feel like a burden. For me, it was a very organic process—each step naturally led to the next. The affection and devotion I had for Dobar House at that moment have become an integral part of my identity, I gave a lot to Dobar House, the same as it did for me. Dobar House has significantly shaped my path, and our mutual development has been symbiotic, each “success” building on the last.
Although in the beginning, you played more deep house and house, lately you are known for a faster rhythm and prefer tech house and techno. How did you change your style, and have you always preferred a faster BPM?
I have a deep appreciation for all kinds of electronic music genres. In the beginning, perhaps I lacked the courage to experiment with everything I liked. As I’ve become more confident behind the decks, my style has naturally evolved. I am still not “brave” enough to try everything, but I guess I’ll soon be. I wouldn’t say I’ve changed my style; rather, it’s been a course of exploration and confidence.
What musical style do you prefer and do you adapt to trends on the scene?
Within electronic music, I find myself drawn to house, acid, deep tech, minimal, deep house, classic house, old tech house, electro, breaks, and even some unconventional fusions that defy easy classification. While I stay aware of trends on the scene, I don’t think I consciously adapt to them, I play what I like.
This year you played at numerous parties and festivals and continue at the same pace. What will the rest of the summer look like, and what are the plans for the upcoming Zagreb club season?
This summer has already been very cool with a series of fantastic gigs and festivals. I’m particularly excited about performing at Sonus again. As for the upcoming season, Dobar House will kick off on September 13th, and we have an exciting collaboration in the works.
If you could have a drink with any DJ/producer, who would it be and why?
That’s a tough one. I’d love to sit down with plenty, especially Laurent Garnier, Masters at Work, and Honey Dijon. From the legends who are no longer with us, if I could go back in time, it would definitely be Frankie Knuckles and Larry Levan. Also, having a drink with DJ Fat Tony would probably be hilarious.
Track of the year?
I really like Demi RiquÃsimo’s Shameless Progression.
What would you recommend to young DJs and producers who are just starting to break through on the scene?
Record mixes, make contacts, and know the history.
You can catch Elena Mikac at the Sonus festival on Tuesday, August 20, in Papaya Club where she will warm up the stage for SYREETA, Chris Stussy, Loco Dice, and Seth Troxler. As this is her second appearance at the festival, we asked her about the expectations for this year. “Last year’s Sonus was cool—still one of my favorite gigs. Opening the stages twice was a lovely experience. For instance, the club opened at 22:00 and was packed by 22:20. I enjoyed every second of it, from the people to their feedback and everything in between. I try not to set expectations, but I am quite excited to return and soak in the atmosphere once again”, Elena said. The tickets for Sonus are still available via the link.
