Benfay
Born in Olten, Switzerland, and enthralled by carnival drummers as a child, Benfay later studied at the Hochschule für Musik, where his passion for jazz, classical, and emerging electronic scenes converged. Early experiments with Sound Forge and Rebirth led to pioneering netlabel releases on thinner.com, showcasing his unique sonic palette. Now based in Bern, he produces, mixes, and masters music for various artists while crafting his own Leftfield House and Experimental Techno at Blackpearlaudio Studio.
The Sound of Benfay
Shaped by the free jazz records of his youth and refined through his classical double bass studies in Bern, Switzerland, Benfay’s sound balances raw, driving rhythms with smooth, minimal grooves. After meeting Niels Jensen in 1999, he delved into electronic production, teaching himself modular synthesis and sample editing at record speed. His early tracks drew comparisons to the tight techno of Kanzleramt, while his more recent work showcases a sleeker, more spacious aesthetic, underpinned by a hidden, detailed funk.
Collaborative Journeys: Crafting a Precisely Human Groove
Collaborations with artists such as Jagged and the Round Table Knights further broadened his creative outlook, weaving punchy house beats with warm melodic textures into a coherent, immersive whole. Underpinning each project is a signature fusion of crisp minimalism and soulful detail—an approach that resonates on festival sound systems just as vividly as in intimate listening spaces. Today, Benfay continues to refine this balance between kinetic energy and subtle restraint, shaping a sonic world that is as precise as it is profoundly human.
Artistic Vision
Benfay’s current artistic vision centers on reverse-engineering sound, allowing each sonic element to guide the creative process. Rather than stacking layers indiscriminately, he carefully listens to the unique character of every tone and sample, granting them a stage on which to speak. By giving each sound space to breathe and interact, he creates a musical dialogue in which every voice is heard, resulting in a deeply immersive and authentic listening experience.
Signature Elements
A persistent drive to push the limits of outboard gear lies at the heart of Benfay’s signature sound, constantly probing what is sonically possible. While studying composition at the Hochschule für Musik under the guidance of Urs Peter Schneider, the open-minded philosophies of John Cage and the ambient aesthetics of Brian Eno further shaped the creative process, fostering an embrace of minimalism, chance, and spacious sonic exploration. Although experiments occasionally veer into extremes—at times going “over the top”—the approach has shifted toward a more refined direction, allowing each element room to breathe. Another defining trait is the love for the piano, expressed through harmonic “surrealities” influenced by Eric Satie. When these elements converge, the result is music that is both daringly experimental and artfully restrained.
Defining Chapters: Benfay’s Musical Journey
This musical journey reflects unwavering dedication and passion for electronic music. From the earliest experiments with sound to a recognized standing in the field, each phase has contributed to the evolution of a distinct creative force.
1972 – Late 1980s
Early Musical Influences
Born on November 22, 1972 in Olten, Switzerland, Ben grew up surrounded by music. Classical pieces and free jazz regularly spun on the family record player, reflecting his father’s involvement in organizing a local jazz festival that spotlighted free jazz and South African jazz. Even from a young age, there was exposure to diverse musical forms, furthered by participation in an early Carl Orff method group that emphasized creative play and rhythm. This rich environment laid the groundwork for a lasting fascination with sound—particularly the power of percussion and the vivid energy of live performances.
Late 1980s – Early 1990s
Multidisciplinary Instrument Exploration
He dabbled in guitar (his first electric guitar bought from “Crown” Kocher of the band Killer), piano, trumpet, and finally settled on double bass, fueled by a growing interest in jazz (especially Miles Davis). During this time at a Waldorf School, theater also became a significant pursuit. Performances included Turandot by Friedrich Schiller and Bertolt Brecht’s Der gute Mensch von Szechuan, where he played Wang the water seller—a role requiring singing on stage. Another pivotal project was an adaptation of Kafka’s Die Verwandlung, led by artist Joerg Mollet, for which he provided live piano and incorporated music from Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon. Ultimately, music remained the central focus, setting the stage for future endeavors.
1992 - 1993
Decision to Pursue Music and Move to Bern
After a short-lived apprenticeship as a stone sculptor, Benjamin realized his true passion was music. In 1993, he moved from Olten to Bern and enrolled at the Swiss Jazz School, immersing himself in both jazz and orchestral performance.
Mid to Late 1990s
First Steps into Electronic Music
Studying composition under Urs Peter Schneider deepened an interest in contemporary classical music, with influences from John Cage and Morton Feldman shaping an exploratory and open-ended approach to sound. Experimenting with early digital tools such as Sound Forge, Acid Pro, and Propellerhead’s ReBirth, he began creating abstract electronic collages as well as driving and dubby techno tracks. Discovering the netlabel Thinner, he released his first EPs, Carbon and Nitron, which opened doors to the electronic scene.
Early 2000s
Diverse Studio Work and Collaborations
Benjamin developed a reputation for mixing, mastering, and production. He worked on numerous projects, including KuttiMC’s albums and various deep house/techno releases, honing his skills as both a musician and an engineer.
2009 – Early 2010s
Major Breakthrough with Round Table Knights
Collaborating extensively with the Round Table Knights, Benjamin produced and mixed notable tracks, EPs, and remixes for labels like Defected and Exploited. This partnership brought considerable visibility in the house/techno community.
2016 – 2018
Founding Otacto and Nivispluma Label
Together with Niels Jensen, he launched Otacto—an experimental techno project—and released music through Bandcamp and later on their own label, Nivispluma, marking a new chapter in Benjamin’s electronic explorations.
2020 – Present
Passing of Niels Jensen and Continuing Musical Journey
After Niels’s untimely passing in June 2020, Benjamin continued his work in music production and mastering, moving his studio back home and carrying forward Jensen’s legacy and vast CD collection as he develops his own sound.