Josh I have been shaving with a Dovo 5/8 daily face and scalp since December. I am new to Strait Razor shaving however, I had notice similar attributes when shaving. Until I changed my approach angle to just less than 30' (spine closer to face) and it has improved the shave. I have had my best shave results with shaving just after shower, more water than I think necessary for lather and keep reapplying lather as I go (still working on that Technic) the lather works as a lubricant between the razor and your skin. Apposed to the frame design of Safety Razors which adds a bit of structure that glides along your face. (Thank you Captain Obvious) This is why you stated you had a closer shave with the straight.
All this to say keep working on all of your Technic's from face prep, stropping, and shave angles.

Commit some time to really "Master the basics" and you will discover the joy of accomplishment.