I've been keeping an eye on Skippo for a while now and am super excited to finally get him over to play ED. I chatted with him about guilty secrets, German lager and hitting the sweet spot.
Tell us a bit about Yves Jocham?
That’s me! I’m 33, based in Cologne but originally from the lovely northern city of Bremen. I’m not just all about beats, by day I’m also a freelance graphic designer. I’ve always been into art in all its forms. Whether it’s visual or musical, I just love creating things that make people feel something.
So how does a graphic designer get into DJing?
Kind of by accident. I was designing flyers for parties, so I was already hanging around the scene. DJing always looked super fascinating to me, like some mysterious thing I really wanted to figure out. So I started learning how it works, just out of curiosity. Then one New Year’s Eve in 2016, the DJ got sick last minute and I got asked to jump in. I gave it a go, totally unplanned and super nervous. It turned into a great night and that’s when things really started to take off.
Why Skippo? Being German I’m assuming it’s nothing to do with macropods. 🦘
Haha! True, no kangaroo skills here (although I’d rate my jumping as decent).
Back in school I used to draw all the time, and I had this comic character I created called Skippo. When I started DJing, it felt natural to bring him along for the ride and turn him into something new, a part of my music identity.
How would you describe your sound? What kind of music do you play?
When it comes to techno, my sound is driving, happy, and motivating – with a good dose of melody and emotion. I play tracks that create a vibe, tell a little story, and still keep the energy high. For me, it’s all about hitting that sweet spot where rhythm and emotion come together. Music that lifts people up and gets them moving.
I also love to play groovy House sets. Especially in summer.
Do you have a gig or experience you consider seminal to your DJ career?
Definitely! One that really stands out is my set at Milkshake Festival. At that point, I was still kind of unsure about myself as a DJ, always questioning if I was good enough. But that day I played in front of a massive crowd and they were fully into it, dancing and cheering. The energy was incredible. That moment made me realize: I can move a big crowd. It gave me the confidence to fully own what I do.
What’s your favourite track of all time?
Tough one! There are so many amazing tracks across all genres and decades – picking just one feels kind of unfair. But since “I don’t know” isn’t really an answer, I’ll go with the first one that popped into my head: Open Your Eyes by Nalin & Kane. That one always gets me.
Which track are you loving at the moment?
Easy! Right now I’m totally into Astrosyn (Your House Is My House) – the Thomas Schumacher Remix. Such a banger! You should definitely check this one out. (MF: total banger!)
You’re a techno DJ but what’s your guilty pleasure when it comes to gay anthems?
Guilty as charged! I can’t resist “Feels So Good” by Sonique – total classic. And “Silence” by Delerium? Gives me goosebumps every time.
What's ya poison?
A freshly poured beer – no surprise there, right? Classic German choice. (MF: a man after my own heart! 😄)
What’s your position on housework; love it or hate it? Favourite or least favourite task?
Let’s just say... Housework and I have an understanding: I do it, but I don’t enjoy it. Least fave? Definitely anything with folding.
When you’re not DJing, how do you relax, what do you get up to? Any pets we should know about?
If I’m not making music, I’m usually lost in the art world – sketching, designing, or strolling through museums. I can’t wait to explore Sydney’s art scene. No pets yet, as i am always on the run.
What can we expect at ED on the long weekend?
You can expect a lot of good energy. I always try to create a vibe where people can let go, feel lifted, and just enjoy the moment. My sets are full of driving beats, emotional highs, and a groove that keeps you moving. I want to connect with the crowd and send out something positive. If you leave with a smile and tired legs, I’ve done my job.
Thanks Yves. We can't wait, sore legs an' all. 🙏
Get tickets to our long weekend event on Sunday October 5th HERE.