When people talk about inspirational figures in the trance genre, many people might think of names such as Paul Van Dyk, Judge Jules and Armin Van Buuren. Delve a little deeper though and there are a few names which one day will be at the top of line-ups fit for the festivals and in the meantime are truly worth seeking for that Inspiration. One of these artists is a man we are proud to have headlining our March party, who goes by the name of Ben Nicky. Three years ago, Ben set up his label Abstract, and by his second release had become a firm favourite with big trance jocks around the globe.
Regularly receiving support from the aforementioned superstars and all of their contemporaries, Radio 1 air time and gigs around the world, Ben really has enjoyed a phenomenal journey so far as both a DJ and producer. It’s not just his unbridled talent that makes him stand out and guarantees a steady rise to the top of his game, but also his passion for the scene and his sure, but far from arrogant personality and eagerness to make people dance. People, we at Puzzle Project give you a sure-fire legend in the making, Ben Nicky…
Hi Ben, thanks for taking the time for the interview. How’s tricks?
Hey mate, yeah I’m really good thanks! Hope you guys are well too!
You’ve been extremely busy recently, what have we pulled you away from right now?
I have indeed but it seems to be a regular occurrence now! Well before starting this interview I had to burn 10 CDs for my gig in Scotland this weekend, the most tedious part of DJing I would say! After this I expect it will be a big cup of tea and Call of Duty Online!
You’ve come a very long way in what seems like a very quick time. Tell us, where did it all start for you?
Yes you’re right, I’ve only been in the trance game for 3 years and it’s nice to finally have things going right after all the hard work! I started DJing at first but I was getting fed up of bars and playing in front of empty clubs, so I decided to start producing and set up my own record label (Abstract Recordings). My first track went to no.2 in the charts and everything just started to follow from there, although I would say my recent tracks on "Vandit" + "Spinnin" have certainly done my profile wonders in the last few months.
I remember getting really excited about getting Abstract promos when you started the label after hearing the first two releases. How has the sound of the label progressed?
Abstract started as a label for the "real clubbers". No messing about, just big tracks that are designed for the proper clubber who loves to go nuts on the weekend! It’s gone from strength to strength with big CD compilation signings, over 15 number 1 tracks, support from every big name around the world and I've even had some of the world's biggest labels purchase releases off me! Unfortunately as I’m getting seriously busy now, I am thinking about finishing Abstract or possibly selling it... Still haven’t made my mind up yet! Will be a shame and an end of an Important Era to me but I think it’s the right time now!
You seem to be opting for signing other artists as opposed to releasing your own stuff on the label, any particular reason for this?
As big as Abstract has become, you can't always contend with the funding involved with the bigger labels. I signed one of my tracks "Special Moment" to Paul Van Dyk's Vandit label as a trial and to be honest it was absolutely crazy how well it did. Abstract is more of a business to me rather than a way to get exposure. I don’t take advantage of that fact and I like keeping my solo sound totally separate to my Artists’.
What labels has Ben Nicky, the producer been showing up on recently then?
Recent and upcoming tracks have appeared on Armada, Vandit, Spinnin Records (Reset + Liquid), Monster and obviously Abstract!
One thing that I know most budding artists dream of is getting coveted Radio 1 support. Where were you and what were you doing when you first heard your creations being played to the nation? And just how did it feel?
I've missed most of the plays to be honest as I have usually been DJing! But over the last year I have caught quite a lot of them on the way to events etc whilst I’ve been in the car and it’s a great feeling to hear it on such a big station! Can’t thank Judge Jules enough for his support so far!
We’re a small party with a massive attitude, and as you can see from our line-ups, we can’t allow ourselves to be pigeon-holed. What can we expect from your set in March?
As much as I love to play in front of big crowds, I also love close underground vibes with an intimate feeling. I’m DJing in Swansea the night before so I’ll be fuelling myself with plenty of caffeine!! I have some new productions to test out and all I can say to the clubbers is “LETS HAVE IT!” 135-140bpm Chunky Tech & Uplifting Emotional Vibes - Enough said!
Any advice you can offer to anybody thinking of setting up their own imprint?
Only sign big tunes, Use a decent distributor, get a very close knit promo list together and don't spend stupid money on remixes if the package is already strong.
What kit are you rocking in the studio?
Quad Core PC, Ableton Live 8 + Various Plug-ins, although soon to be moving to Mac + Logic 8 as I really can't get enough of the built in plug-ins as standard!
Thanks for your time Nicky, See you at the end of March!
