Behind the Decks: My Process and Technical Craft
This isn't just about playing tracks; it's about the focus, the gear, and the real-time energy management that happens when the crowd is waiting for the next drop.
An artistic, low-angle shot of me in my element. This black and white photo captures the motion and energy I put into every performance.
A view from behind my shoulder at FLO, showing my focus on the decks as I mix for a packed club under the red lights.
Welcome to my house. A shot from the upper deck at Drunken Daddy, showing my command center overlooking the entire party.
CraftyBoy isn't just a name. It's the persona I embody when I'm under the lights, completely connected to the music and the crowd.
A classic shot of me at the console at Toca, with a smile that shows I'm exactly where I belong.
Grabbing the mic to connect with the crowd at Toca. This is the moment I bridge the gap between the booth and the dance floor.
A moment of calm and focus. In the middle of a high-energy set, I'm locked in, making sure every transition is perfect.
About this collection
When you see me behind the console, that focus isn't just for show. It’s because I’m reading the room in real-time, matching every transition on the Pioneer CDJ to the crowd’s energy. Whether I’m at Toca or Sugar Factory, I need a standard club-grade setup like the CDJ 2000 NXS2 to deliver that seamless Bolly-Tech sound you're expecting. If the hardware isn't solid, the vibe suffers, and that is one compromise I never make.
The Science Behind the Vibe
Being a DJ is 10% about the music selection and 90% about how you execute it. When I’m in the booth, I’m not just playing a playlist. I’m constantly EQ-ing, monitoring the crowd, and prepping the next track to keep the energy spike consistent. Whether I am dropping a commercial banger or mixing a custom Bolly-Tech edit, I am locked into the technical side of the performance.
Why the Gear Matters
I’ve played at Bengaluru’s biggest spots—from FLO to Macaw—and one thing remains constant: the equipment determines the limits of my creativity. For my sets to hit the way they do, I require a standard setup:
- Pioneer CDJ 2000 NXS2 or 3000: These are industry standards that allow for the rapid-fire, precise beat matching my sets demand.
- DJM 900 Mixer: Necessary for the heavy microphone usage and the specific effects I trigger live.
- Professional PA System: Because my style is about high-intensity 'Hands up!' moments, the sound needs to be clear even at high volumes.
My Approach to Live Sets
I don’t believe in pre-recorded sets. My 'Craftyverse' experience is built on dynamic, real-time adaptation. If the floor wants more Punjabi hip-hop, I pivot immediately. If it’s a packed club, I lean into my Bolly-Tech edits. Every event is a two-way conversation between me and the dance floor. I’m there to guide the night, not just stand at the desk. That’s the grind, and that’s why I love it.
DJ Shams
I’m DJ Shams, and for me, the console isn't just a workspace—it's home. I’ve spent over eight years turning tracks into experiences, blending grit with gratitude to keep the Bengaluru nightlife scene moving.
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