RKP, Univack, and Purrfection’s regular Benja Molina returns to UV Noir with the exceptional Astrea EP.
Benja Molina is currently one of Spain’s most prominent Progressive House producers, known for his energetic and melodic House tracks and big club Progressive House productions. Signed to esteemed labels and with a wealth of new material in the pipeline, his future looks incredibly promising. Since 2008, his exceptional quality has been evident in every aspect of his work. His collaborations with international artists have consistently reached the top of Beatport nine times. Notable supporters include Hernán Canttaneo, Dj Ruby, Topo Larocca, N- Tchbl, Paul Thomas, and Mariano Mellino.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] Benja Molina, a standout artist frequently featured on RKP, Univack, and Purrfection, returns to UV Noir with his masterfully crafted Astrea EP, comprising three mesmerizing tracks: "Astrea," "Aura," and "Feeling." This EP not only solidifies his position as a progressive house luminary but also serves as a treasure trove for DJs seeking meticulously produced, dancefloor-ready gems. Astrea (122 BPM) sets the tone as a deep, dreamy progressive house masterpiece. The track is characterized by its outstanding melodic layers, which are meticulously crafted using lush pads and ethereal synths that glide seamlessly over a foundation of cinematic soundscapes. The production process showcases advanced layering techniques, with reverb-drenched atmospheres creating a vast, immersive sonic space. The careful EQ balance ensures the melodic elements shine without overpowering the driving low-end, making it an ideal selection for progressive house DJs looking to evoke emotion and depth in their sets. Aura (123 BPM) shifts the energy slightly with a deeper, moodier groove. Its upfront, epic-like melody exudes optimism and confidence, skillfully woven into tribal-inspired grooves and buoyant basslines. The rhythmic complexity comes from the clever use of percussive elements and syncopation, creating a dynamic interplay between the kick and bass. Sidechain compression is finely tuned to allow the melody and bass to breathe harmoniously, maintaining momentum while preserving clarity. This track’s structure, with its carefully crafted breakdowns and builds, makes it a versatile tool for DJs aiming to control the dancefloor’s energy flow. Feeling (122 BPM) rounds out the EP as a quintessential progressive house track, embodying hypnotic, synth-driven melodies that evoke a sensation of weightlessness. The production shines with intricate arpeggios and subtle modulation effects that evolve throughout the track, creating a constantly shifting auditory landscape. The use of delay and reverb adds depth, while the minimalist yet impactful drum patterns provide a solid groove foundation. Its "no gravity" feeling is achieved through the meticulous automation of filters and effects, ensuring the track progresses organically, making it perfect for peak-time or after-hours sets. For progressive house DJs, the Astrea EP is invaluable, offering tracks that are not only technically polished but also emotionally resonant, capable of transforming any set into a captivating sonic journey. #PureGold Love It[/content]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item] [item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item] [item value="10"] Melody [/item] [item value="10"] Synths [/item] [item value="10"]Breakdown[/item] [item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item] [item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item] [item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item] [item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item] [item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item] [item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item] [item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item] [item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item] [item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item] [item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item] [item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item] [/review]
UV, along with our friends at Rhythm Horizons, returns to London on September 13th for a very special show at the incredible Colours Venue in Hoxton. UV label bosses Paul Thomas and Das Pharaoh (Fadi from Aly & Fila) will be joined by Alex O’Rion and Quivver.
Benja Molina’s illustrious career spans the globe, as a Spanish DJ and music producer whose talent has transcended the vibrant club scene of Madrid to diverse locations such as India, the United States, and Argentina. His musical prowess has garnered recognition from esteemed artists like Hernán Cattaneo, Paul Van Dyk, Ilias Katelano, Paul Thomas, Blanka Barbara, Mariano Mellino, Gai Barone, and many others. Molina’s compositions have been released on renowned labels like Mango Alley, Univack, FSOE UV, and have achieved numerous number-one hits on Beatport. His influence extends beyond Spain’s borders, solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the club music industry and an internationally recognized artist.
His latest release on UV features two exceptional tracks, “Mauna Loa” and “Apollo.” We are delighted that he has returned to Flux BPM Online with an interview about this remarkable release, which is undoubtedly a must-read. We eagerly anticipate perusing his insightful responses.
Dimitris: To begin, it would be beneficial for you to share with us your three most significant accomplishments or objectives that you are particularly proud of achieving thus far in your professional career.
Benja Molina: Ranked #6 on Beatport in the Progressive House genre, with Paul Van Dyk as a supporter, and even more remarkable, there is a growing global appreciation for my music.
2. Could you elaborate on the reasons behind your decision to embark on the journey of DJing or producing electronic dance music?
Benja Molina: The connection I experienced was during my childhood, approximately eight years old. However, it was not until I reached the age of fourteen that a remarkable and transformative event occurred. At that juncture, I gained a profound understanding that electronic music would become an integral part of my life.
3. Could you please identify the three most influential producers who have shaped your decision to pursue a career in the electronic dance music industry?
Benja Molina: I would like to acknowledge Tony De Vit, Hernán Cattaneo, and Paul Oakenfold as influential figures in the electronic dance music genre.
4. Could you please provide the top three tracks from the past that have had the most significant influence on your musical style and explain your reasoning?
Benja Molina: There are numerous options, and selecting one is challenging. However, I would like to mention “For an Angel” as a song that evokes a specific memory for me. It reminds me of an open-roofed disco that we frequented on Sundays during the late 1990s. The song “On Track” by Yello also holds a strong place in my memory.
5. It would be wonderful to discuss your latest release Mauna Loa and Apollo on UV. Kindly share the inspiration behind the creation of these track and provide insights into the thought process behind them.
Benja Molina: Mauna Loa, in my opinion, is the largest volcano globally, which inspired me. It embodies the qualities of power, majesty, and beauty.
Apollo is the track I envision dancing to in a more underground club setting. This inspired me to contemplate dancing in a club where such music would not be played.
6. Could you please provide an estimate of the production time and describe the production process in a simplified manner?
Benja Molina: The process of crafting a first draft typically spans approximately two weeks, commencing with the initial conception. A two-day hiatus is dedicated to rest and subsequent review to ensure the draft possesses the requisite polish.
7. Could you elaborate on any specific technical challenges or obstacles you encountered during the production of that particular track?
Benja Molina: My primary challenge is ensuring that the audio is produced at a consistent frequency level, resulting in a clean and balanced sound with appropriate dynamic range. This aspect of audio production often presents the most technical difficulties for me.
8. If you had the opportunity to alter your current track and potentially create a new remix, which aspects would you be dissatisfied with and what changes would you implement? Additionally, is there any particular artist whose remix you believe would be exceptional and why?
Benja Molina: Another artist’s vision can always bring light and magic. There are several artists, two of whom I particularly admire are Analog Jungs and Maze 28. They possess an exceptionally unique and captivating vision.
9. Which music composition software or hardware do you prefer, and why? What are your thoughts on the recent trend towards producing music using more analogue equipment, with less or no digital software?
Benja Molina: I have a substantial digital collection, comprising approximately 98% of my media. This arrangement allows me to comfortably create music while relaxing on my couch. I firmly believe that music creation should be free and unhindered, enabling individuals to express themselves uniquely and spontaneously.
10. Which type of music do you prefer: vocal or instrumental tracks? If the track we are discussing contains vocals, please provide information about the singer you collaborate with.
Benja Molina: I find great joy in collaborating with Nadia Ali, whom I consider to be the most exceptional vocalist. In my musical endeavors, I exclusively utilize ambient choirs.
11. Are there any vocalists or singers in the electronic dance music genre that you aspire to collaborate with?
Benja Molina: In response to the previous inquiry, collaborating with Nadia Ali would be an extraordinary experience. It would be an enchanting endeavor.
12. Select the most impactful lyrics ever incorporated into a dance track, and elucidate the profound emotional resonance and personal significance they hold for you.
Benja Molina: In my opinion, “The Sound of Silence” stands as an unparalleled lyric. While I hold great admiration for the original rendition, it is undeniable that various interpretations, such as the one by Disturbed, have elevated this song to new heights.
13. Do you believe that the artwork on your latest track is of high quality and has the potential to attract listeners or record buyers? If so, could you please provide an example of the most effective artwork ever created for a track?
Benja Molina: In my opinion, the label should maintain its brand image. As a designer and publicist, I believe that the corporate image should be preserved. I appreciate the significant effort that is invested in this aspect.
14. Could you select your top three record labels, including the one that released the track we discussed in this interview? Please provide a brief explanation of why these labels are significant to you and the music industry as a whole.
Benja Molina: UV FSOE’s track record solidifies its position as one of the Labels with the most significant contributions to the music industry. Conversely, Balance Music is commended for its innovative approach, while Mango Alley is recognized for its exceptional music selection and cover design.
15. Could you please provide information about your record label? If so, please include the establishment date, the reasons behind your decision, and your top three releases to date. Additionally, we would appreciate it if you could recommend two or three releases that we should consider exploring from your label.
Benja Molina: Due to the overwhelming workload provided by my record label, I made the difficult decision to resign from my position and focus on my production and performance endeavors.
16. Could you please provide us with details about any upcoming album or mix compilation projects? If so, please share information regarding the tracks, their intended sound, and any visual elements.
Benja Molina: In the past, when I was relatively unknown, I composed a collection of tracks exclusively for a Swedish label. Presently, my focus is on radio and monthly programs, but these are all in a free format.
17. Could you select your most cherished album or compilation and elucidate the reasons behind your profound admiration for it?
Benja Molina: Indeed, Deepwibe has been referenced in numerous publications. However, we have unfortunately lost track of all the artists associated with this esteemed label. Regrettably, I am unable to ascertain whether the ongoing conflict in Russia had any bearing on this situation, as it transpired during that period. The references in question were “Up All Night” and “Cygnus,” which I believe were the initial works that garnered significant international recognition.
18. How much time do you dedicate to self-promotion on social media platforms, and do you consider it an essential tool for both self-promotion and booking management? Which social media platform appears to be more effective for your business?
Benja Molina: Social media presence is imperative for an individual’s existence in today’s digital landscape. While it may require dedicated time investment, it has become an indispensable tool for professional promotion. Among the various platforms, Instagram holds the most significance for me in this regard.
19. Do you host your own radio show, podcast, Twitch stream, or Vlog? If so, please provide us with information about it. Include details on the preparation time involved and your level of enthusiasm for producing it.
Benja Molina: The radio program, “Horizon of Sounds,” features new music from various artists each month. I include unreleased tracks and select the featured track for the month. The program is recorded in one hour, followed by its presentation at the program’s commencement, ensuring its timely completion within an hour and a half.
20. Do you post videos on TikTok? If so, please provide a reference to your favorite video. What is your opinion about the influence of TikTok on promoting music releases? Are there any TikTok videos created by fans of your music that are worth mentioning?
Benja Molina: To expand your reach, it is imperative to leverage TikTok. My strategy involves sharing snippets of my musical creations, clubbing experiences, and festival adventures. While I acknowledge its potential humor, I am open to feedback.
21. Could you please provide information on any confirmed gigs or festival performances for 2025? If so, which ones are you most enthusiastic about performing and why?
Benja Molina: Two dates in Spain that I will be visiting for the first time are clubs that I have never been to. We are looking for locations for other destinations outside of Spain. However, I would be very excited to be in the place where Hernán Cattaneo, an Argentinean musician, has always been heard.
22. Kindly share your most humorous and most serious incident that occurred during your DJ or LIVE PA performance.
Benja Molina: An interesting observation is that two of the three CDJs malfunctioned, necessitating the immediate placement of the spare before the track concluded. Two of the CDJs were rendered inoperable due to the malfunctioning screens. Fortunately, the performance was swift, as I was unable to perform any alternative actions. Furthermore, on one occasion, the GPS repeatedly failed to guide me, leading me to an entirely different city.
23. Are you satisfied with the quality of the tracks released in your preferred music genres? Kindly provide your justification for your response.
Benja Molina: Indeed, there are always certain songs that resonate with individuals more than others. Conversely, the songs that may not appeal to you the most often become the favorites of others. This phenomenon is consistently observed.
24. Please provide your top three tracks, along with a brief commentary for each.
Benja Molina: Hecate… Playing the piano, she wept with emotion. Legacy of Alan… Dedicated to my nephew, almost my son. It was one of the first songs Hernán added to his residency and In My Memory. That track encapsulates a part of me that will forever be etched in my memory.
25. If you anticipate a consistent income from your music productions, are you satisfied with the current royalty system, particularly in relation to streaming revenue? Do you believe that artists receive fair compensation from streaming providers, DJs who perform your tracks in live events and radio broadcasts, and retailers who distribute physical formats such as CDs and vinyl, as well as digital platforms?
Benja Molina: I strongly advocate for an immediate review of this matter. Notably, platforms such as Spotify should address this sensitive issue: the creation of music is a complex process that cannot be reduced to a mere cost. While software, talent, and knowledge are essential components, they cannot be quantified at a negligible value.
26. Please note for all new talents who read this interview that you may find inspiration in it. Additionally, please share any technical tips related to your DJing or music productions. Furthermore, any personal or music business advice that has contributed to your progress and is worth sharing with new emerging talents would be greatly appreciated.
Benja Molina: It is crucial to resist trends and develop a deep understanding of your musical identity. When you identify with a particular style, it is essential to commit to it unwaveringly. Short-term trends are not sustainable in the music industry. I believe that building a successful career in music requires patience, dedication, and a genuine passion for your craft.
27. Numerous producers and DJs provide online masterclasses or teach music production and DJing courses. Do you believe it is essential to participate in such courses to enhance your skills? Are you offering any of these services? Alternatively, are you providing related services such as ghost-producing or mastering? Kindly share information about these activities.
Benja Molina: There are several ways to monetize digital music, as it is primarily intended for personal enjoyment rather than profit. My plan is to offer classes on production consulting and track analysis, focusing on providing comprehensive guidance beyond basic production techniques.
28. Is there a club classic that you would like to remix or rework in 2025? Do you frequently attempt to create your own bootleg versions of classics?
Benja Molina: While I do not generally favor remixing classic songs, I must admit that I have a few favorites. Without hesitation, I would select one from the 1990s, such as “Man on the Moon.”
29. Select the most and least effective remix of the club classic, and provide a detailed explanation of your preferences.
Benja Molina: In my opinion, creating a Techno remix of every song is a waste of resources that could be better utilized for producing original music. However, I must acknowledge that the AGE OF LOVE remixes are highly successful. Conversely, attempting to remix Carte Blanche or Veracocha would be a misguided endeavor.
30. To what extent do you prioritize the approval of your fans or followers regarding your productions? Do you experience difficulties in gauging the reception of your tracks, and does this consideration contribute to additional pressure and discouragement?
Benja Molina: Indeed, it is an intriguing question. While I did not give it much consideration before, I have come to realize that it is an impossible task to cater to everyone’s preferences. I strive to maintain my unique identity in my music. Occasionally, I opt for a melodic approach, while at other times, I adopt a slower tempo. My goal is to convey stories that resonate with my audience, whether it be a more intimate and atmospheric setting or a lively and energetic Club Groove.
31. Could you describe your music as belonging to a specific genre, such as trance, house, or techno? Alternatively, does your music defy these categorizations? What are your thoughts on hybrid styles and artists who experiment with blending influences from various genres in their compositions?
Benja Molina: I have a preference for Progressive House music. As previously mentioned, I believe Progressive House is closely associated with Trance and certain Techno tracks. While we may be becoming more purist in our music preferences, I recall clubs that played a diverse range of genres within a single session, including House, Techno, Trance, Eurodance, and more.
32. Is your music business your sole occupation, and do you have the flexibility to withdraw from it (e.g., DJing, producing, label ownership, teaching, or mastering tracks)? If not, what other employment opportunities are you pursuing to support your income?
Benja Molina: Currently I'm employed as a Brand Technician at a company. Additionally, I am pursuing a Master’s degree in the Music Industry, preparing for my future career endeavors.
33. Do you believe that audience members should be prohibited from taking continuous photographs or videos during DJ sets, or are you content with these activities?
Benja Molina: Coexistence is paramount, as times evolve and this is an inherent aspect of it. In my opinion, the club atmosphere should be shared from the audience in their social media to facilitate the promotion of artists.
34. Which type of venue do you prefer for performing: small clubs or large festivals? Are there any specific festivals or clubs that you aspire to perform at in the future?
Benja Molina: I am an ardent admirer of the Club’s allure. Although I have yet to perform at the festivals, I am convinced that I must experience its essence firsthand.
35. Kindly select your preferred holiday destination and share with us your most memorable holiday experience, whether positive or negative.
Benja Molina: Ibiza, particularly its natural beauty, including its pristine beaches and breathtaking sunsets, possesses an undeniable allure that defies rational explanation.
Dimitris: Please provide your message & wishes for Flux Bpm Online readers.
Benja Molina: I extend my heartfelt appreciation to you all from afar. Music stands as a singular art form that possesses the extraordinary ability to transcend geographical boundaries and evoke profound emotional connections. Its capacity to evoke cherished memories and foster a sense of unity is unparalleled. Thank you once again for your unwavering support.
Thanks so much to Benja Molina for his wonderful answers.
Thanks so much to Paul Thomas at UV for organizing this interview.
Benja Molina's career is a real whirlwind. Spanish DJ and music producer, his work has transcended from the clubs of the Spanish capital to various locations around the globe (India, Pakistan, Argentina). His musical talent and appeal have been recognized by artists such as Hernán Cattaneo, Ali & Fila, Marino Mellino, Paul Thomas, Gai Barine, Blanka Barbara and a long list. His work is released on top labels such as Mango Alley, Univack, FSOE UV, etc., in addition to having several top 100 hits on Beatport. Molina's influence, both inside and outside the Spanish borders, has allowed him to establish himself as a reference within the club space, with an energetic sound, perhaps melancholic but very powerful, with melodic predominance.
He is the most representative artist in Spain of this genre.
His track In My Memory is included in the brilliant UV Summer Sessions 2024 EP and we are pleased that he answered our interview despite that English is not his first language. You can read his very informative answers right here.
1-Dimitris: It would be nice to start by telling us your 3 most important achievements or goals fulfilled in your career so far that you very are proud of.
Benja Molina: Appearing on Wen We Dip within Hernan Cattaneo's sets, having 5 tracks on tip 100 at the same time on Progressive House on Beatport, and sharing the dj booth in Clubs with Kamilo Sanclemente, Ntchbl etc.
2-Dimitris: Why and under which circumstances did you took the decision to start DJing or producing electronic dance music?
Benja Molina: Since I was 12 years old, it was clear to me when, by chance, in the 90s, I met people from all the cities in the country in a morning nightclub that caught me. The atmosphere in that club. I remember that DJ Cerla was playing with the Rotterdam 93 and people were dancing in their cars; it was something that impressed me.
3-Dimitris: Can you note down the top 3 producers that have influenced your decision to get involved in the electronic dance music scene and you admire and respect them very much?
Benja Molina: In those years, the music was different, but there were undoubtedly many, among them I would like to highlight Tony De Vit, Paul Oakenfold and Hernan Cattaneo, ... without a doubt the list is longer.
4-Dimitris: Can you tell us the top 3 tracks from the past that have influenced your sound the most and why?
Benja Molina: Without a doubt the Hard Trance era of 1996, but one that influenced me a lot is Acid Phase by the great Emanuel Top, this one is indispensable, Carte Blance by Veracocha, that track continues to make me fly just like the first time I heard it, and to come in recent times, highly recommended as it is a masterpiece for me, Analog Jungs Feat. Abby with Satori.
5-Dimitris: It would be fantastic to talk about your track In My Memory included on UV's Summer Sessions EP. Please tell us how this track came about and what was the idea behind it.
Benja Molina: In my Memory, it plays to be between Progressive House and Trance of the late 90s, instinctively, my brain goes to the melodic, more nostalgic part (maybe it's like in synthesis it's how I am), the melody was the first thing that was clear to me, is generated with simple notes but with a certain complexity to give it detail and take the listener to that distant place that their head wants to take them, I only make that trip, you choose when to do it, but the moment is only yours, it is the need to tell a little cinematographic story.
6-Dimitris: How long it took you to produce it and can u describe the production process in simple steps?
Benja Molina: I think it was a week,
Actually, I tend to be agile, it's still a training session but when a track takes too long, it's bad.
First I create the main notes, I work on the central part of the track, where all the elements are, and then I develop how the beginning will be like and how the highest point will rise... once I think that the important thing is there, I stop for a day or two, listen to it again and then I'll work out the details.
7-Dimitris: Did you had any particular difficulties accomplishing that particular track or any specific technical challenges or obstacles that you had to overcome during its production.
Benja Molina: At the composition level, generally not.
The part that is most difficult for me is that everything should sounds in its place, equalize well, clean frequencies, ... readers should know that making music is not just creating! hahaha then comes the difficult part, where one without the other is useless.
8-Dimitris: If you would have the opportunity to change something in your track and maybe to do a new remix what elements are you unhappy with and you are going to change? Is there any artist that you feel would be fantastic to remix this track and why?
Benja Molina: I think that has happened to all of us at some point, but in this case I am satisfied with the track as a whole. Without a doubt there are great artists that I would love, but since I can only choose one, Paul Oakenfold
9- Dimitris: Which music composition software or hardware you prefer and why? What is your opinion of the latest movement to produce music with more analogue equipment and with less or without any digital software?
Benja Molina: Well I have always been on the digital side, Although it is true that it is colder... I think analogue has more merit, visually for the performances they are very attractive, but digital is also potentially fun.
10-Dimitris: Do you prefer vocal or instrumental tracks? If there are vocals on the track we discuss about tell us about the singer you work with?
Benja Molina: I think that a good person who sings always gives an added bonus to the composition of the track, makes it more complete... finding good singers is something that may seem simple... but in our genre it is not so simple.
11-Dimitris: Are there any vocalists/singers on electronic dance music you aspire to work with?
Benja Molina: For me it would be a dream to work with Nadia Ali....
It would be something like touching the sky
12-Dimitris: Please choose the most powerful lyrics ever included in a dance track and why these lyrics have touched you so deeply and have a special meaning for you?
Benja Molina: Since I listen to a great diversity of music... there is a song... Blind... that I heard in Barcelona, when I lived there for a while... from Hercules and Love Affair, His lyrics transcend... his melody and his sax are from another level, his verse one is:
As a child,I knew
that the stars could only get brighter
and we would get closer
get closer, oooohh
13-Dimitris: Do you believe that artwork on your latest track is good and do you believe that artwork can attract listeners or record buyers? Can you mention the best artwork of a track ever released?
Benja Molina: Everything adds up, it is vital, in a world where everything enters through the eye... the importance is tremendous, I also speak to you from knowledge, I am a designer, video, etc., so everything complements each other... Dark side of the moon , 1973
14-Dimitris: Can you pick your favorite top 3 record labels including the one released the track that we discuss in this interview and give us a short comment about why these labels are important to you and the music scene too?
Benja Molina: FSOE UV is undoubtedly a reference for all of us, one of the powerful ones, another one that I like is Mango Alley, it has a catalog with a special aura.
UNIVACK has great personality in its work, both in its catalog and in its close treatment.
15-Dimitris: Do you have your own record label? if yes tell us when did you set it up, the reasons behind this decision and your top 3 releases on the label so far plus 2 or 3 releases that we should look after from your label.
Benja Molina: I had one called SafariPark, initially it was Nu Disco music (When it was not a very well-known style) then I withdrew the entire catalog (a shame) but we had certain problems with a component that carried the payments part...
During the seven years that the adventure lasted, the references were mostly mine...I can without a doubt recommend these three: Letthefeling, Everlasting, Deserve
They are truly special, when only a few people listened to me.
16-Dimitris: Are you planning to complete an album or mix compilation soon? if yes please give us all the details about regarding tracks and how will look and sound like?
Benja Molina: Correct, in September or October an EP Album (the first of 4 original tracks) will be released with UNIVACK.
There are 4 tracks that range from 118 bpm to 122, two of them very melodic, for those moments of listening, and another two for those moments of giving everything on the floor of any club, more massive.
We have been preparing this for almost a year, working closely with UNIVACK.
17-Dimitris: Can you pick up your all time favorite album or compilation and tell us why you adore it so much?
Benja Molina: Yes, I have saved a triple CD I think I remember from 1995, at one of those parties I was as a dancer and it has left its stamp on me, I was very young, THE BEST OF HOUSE COLLECTION VOL.2 BOY GEORGE AND TONY DE VIT I think it was published by Fantazia, I still have it, I keep it.
18-Dimitris:How much time do you spend promoting yourself in your social media and you see this as essential tool for self promotion and getting bookings too? Which social media is the one that seems to work better for you?
Benja Molina: In this digital age, it is essential.
Social media are like windows that the rest of the people can look out to learn something about what you do, unfortunately it takes a long time, there are thousands of us, previously hidden behind a couple of technics, but now you have to be a graphic designer, video editor, publicist and the list goes on etc! Instagram for me is my favorite.
19-Dimitris: Do you have your own radio show/podcast/twitch stream or Vlog(video blog)? If yes please give us a comment about it and how long it take you to prepare for it and if you are always excited to produce it?
Benja Molina: Yes, due to lack of time, I only have it on my SoundCloud profile.
It is a program in which I present new music in a mix format, in which I speak little to start the episode...the important thing is always the music, not my voice.
It's called Horizon Of Sounds and it's monthly,
So I prepare the music and then I have a month to select, I choose the featured song of the month, there is always a special track per month.
20-Do you post videos on tiktok? If yes please reference for us your favourite? What is your opinion about the power of tiktok to promote music releases?Is there any tiktok video created by fans of you with your music worth mentioning?
Benja Molina: Yes, I use Tik Tok, but it is true that I only started uploading content about 7 months ago, I think that being active on one of the most used networks you reach a larger audience, I think it is something essential, we must reach an audience of young ages and not so young, and Tik Tok is very broad.
I still don't have many visits per post, an average of 400 visits for each one of them.
21-Dimitris: Do you have any gigs/festival performances confirmed so far for 2024 in which ones are you most excited to perform and why?
Benja Molina: In 2024 I am focusing more on my productions. 2023 was a bit hectic with events and I don't want to get tired of it because I'm not 20 years old anymore hahaha.
As far as 2025 is concerned, we are seeing the possibility of closing large attendances not only in Spain, that is what I can anticipate.
22-Dimitris: Please share your most funny and most serious incident that happen to you during your DJing or LIVE PA performance?
Benja Molina: In a morning club, I had to go to Frankfurt, make a stopover to go to Copenhagen, to a three-store discotheque that actually it was not a discotheque as we understand it, as I was the only one with clothes...In reality I was booked to dj to a giant sex club that I didn't know I was going there,
23-Dimitris: Are you happy about the quality of the tracks released in your preferred music genres? Please justify your answer with your opinion about it!
Benja Molina: Yes, although it is true that at the composition level I arrive at the idea I want, it has cost me more to get a good sound.
When I produced with Cubase, it was something I had mastered.
But with Ableton, which I have been using for three years, it has been difficult and has given me some headaches, but it is already mastered.
24-Your current Top 3 tracks with short comment:
Benja Molina: Hecate Original Mix, making that piano, tears fell down my face... it's magical, a personal moment that perfectly reflects that track
Legacy for Alan, was a tribute to my dear nephew, and the second track that Hernan Cattaneo put on his program
Meridian, can't be missed, spent about 4 weeks in the top 100 and also received the support of great artists like Hernan Cattaneo etc.
25-Dimitris: If you expect to have a steady income from your music productions are you satisfied with the way that royalties system works particularly regarding streaming revenue? Do you believe that artists get what they deserve from streaming providers/DJs playing your tracks in gigs/radio and selling music in physical formats like CDs/Vinyl or digitally.
Benja Molina: I think more care should be taken, this with formats like vinyl, if the reports were made more fair, but without giving names of platforms, we are a mere ant in the desert, I believe that it can be better in the future than it is now... we are who we create, and that must be valued in a more equitable way
26-Dimitris: Please note for all the new talents that read this interview to get some inspiration from you any technical tips in relation to your DJing or music productions. Also any piece of personal or music business' advice that has helped you to progress even further and is worth telling to the new upcoming talents.
Benja Molina: Of course, I always encourage you to do what everyone likes, it is a satisfaction to connect with people from all over the world who are thousands of kilometers away and they listen to you... that's why for me the most important thing is to educate your ears, identifying the key elements for each style so that you at least get to know those specific components, that will help you visualize what music you want to create.
Of course, you have to be constant, it's training, a long-distance race, so don't give up!
27-Dimitris: Many producers and DJs offer online masterclasses or teach to music production & DJing courses. Do you believe is essential to take part in any of these courses to develop your skills? Are you are offering any of these services? or other related services like ghost-producing or mastering? please tell us about these activities
Benja Molina: It is highly recommended. Back in the days that I started my career it was all self-taught, but nowadays fortunately you learn quicker with training and you will advance as producer much sooner.
In my case, they offer it to me continuously, but due to lack of time I have not done it yet. Although I recorded a series of videos on my Instagram, I have not completed yet a full training package. Also they propose me to give a master class in a school. I think training is essential and whoever has that opportunity should do it.
28-Dimitris: Is there a club classic that you would like to remix or rework in 2024? Do you attempt often to do your own bootlegs of classics?
Benja Molina: I tell you that I dared to make the Mythical Hale Bop, with decent results, but I think that the original will always be better, I don't really like those who abuse it, because it can denote a lack of creativity in making original tracks, but yes, there are infinity....for example strings of harmony - sadness 2000
29-Dimitris: Please choose the best and worst remix of club classic and tell us why you like or dislike them.
Benja Molina: The worst could be grouped into a trend, in the mania that exists here in Spain, I don't know if the same thing happens to the rest of the world, but using songs from the 90s and transforming them to melodic techno, without any energy, or good assignment of synths. I can't stand anymore remixes of songs like Isomnia, Veracocha, or Energy 52.
If it comes to mind, there is something that is very little known from the Twin Peaks soundtrack from a few years ago as very deep.
30-Dimitris: How much do you care if your fans or followers like your productions? Do you struggle with the audience reception of your tracks and is this thought adds extra pressure on you and discourage you too?
Benja Molina: It is true that I make music that I would like to listen to, I do not set out to please but to create and then this song to connect naturally with the public. Otherwise it would be something very artificial that I would not enjoy.
31-Dimitris: Can you describe your music as certain music genre such as trance, house, techno or your music exempts these categorizations? What is your opinion about hybrid styles and artists who are attempting to mix influences from various genres in their tracks?
Benja Molina: I think my music falls into the subgenre of Progressive House, sometimes I make Slavonic songs that I call, which is nothing more than songs that are suitable for anyone who plays Trance, or Progressive House. I think the richness of this is that you have a certain sound ambiguity, and that DJs are free to have dynamic sets, as was done in the past. In a club he could sound techno, house, trance, and dance in a perfect way.
32-Dimitris: Is your music business your full time occupation and are you able to make a leaving out of your music business (DJ/producer/label owner/teaching or mastering tracks)? If not what other jobs are you doing in order to support your income?
Benja Molina: Well, music in my case is not my main source of income. I am in charge of managing advertising content and Marketing campaigns for a quality company.
33-Dimitris: Do you believe that audience should be banned from constantly taking photos or videos during DJ sets or are you happy with these activities?
Benja Molina: I don't think it's a problem, models change, we are a changing society and technology is here to stay... so I don't see a real problem, you can enjoy at the same time as recording your video, it's a little memory of a moment of enjoyment
34-Dimitris: Do you prefer small clubs or huge festivals to perform? in which festivals or clubs you aspire to play in the future?
Benja Molina: Each one has their magic... the maximum capacity in which I have performed I think was 3,500 people, perhaps there is much more pressure for everything to go perfect... in small clubs I think people connect very well from one to another .
35-Please choose for us your favourite holiday destination and share with us your most unforgettable holiday experience(good/bad)
Benja Molina: Well, in Spain there are wonderful corners....
I love the area of Almería, the beaches with volcanic landscapes, I like to take trips just to connect with myself, and the area of Las Negras in Almeria is highly recommended. Yes, I had a very bad experience as I had an accident and I had to fix myself there as I was alone without data or coverage of devices such as mobile phones. In such cases you put yourself to the test
Dimitris: Your message & wishes for Flux Bpm Online readers.
Benja Molina: I sincerely wish you that you like this interview and that you can get to know me a little more, music unites us and I believe that each of us has a mission, this is mine... I send you all the good energy and that light that sometimes we lack At some point in our lives, listen to music, whatever it may be, because it is useful for us many times. Hugs and thanks for letting me to be here
Thanks so much to Benja Molina for his answers.
Thanks so much to Stuart at FSOE/UV for arranging this interview.
