The Insiders

Ben Payne and Joe Wills aka The Insiders have spent most of their lives living and breathing music. Living in Bristol has certainly helped, with its strong underground scene providing unrivalled inspiration. Approaching drum n bass from their hip hop roots, they first decided to make music aged 15. Soon realising they both had the same passion for music, they decided to continue producing tracks, leading to their first release on local label Tribe two years later. 

Since then they have attracted attention from an array of labels. Nu-Urban Music were the first to follow Tribe, signing  Chillin’ in early 2001. Shortly afterwards a phone call was received from Danny C (Creative Source), picking up 4 tracks to launch his Blue Box label. First Light, Ben’s solo project, provided the debut 12” Sensation, with It’s Not Over to follow. Both tracks were featured on Fabio’s Radio 1 show.

Their debut for Renegade Recordings, Feel the Music, is currently being smashed by Fabio, LTJ Bukem, Bryan Gee Patife, Addiction, High Contrast and London Elektricity. Their tracks are also featuring in the sets of Hype, Pascal, Bryan Gee, Jumpin’ Jack Frost and Bailey among others.

2002 will see them make their debuts on Renegade Recordings, Frontline and Pivotal. Next year they have singles due on Beatz (Dillinja’s imprint) and Nu Directions, as well as an EP on Blue Box. On the live side of things, a combination of their fresh and soulful approach to mixing and their dubplate heavy tune selection has gained them a strong DJ reputation. During the last year they have played at many of Bristol’s top club nights, securing residencies at both Drive By and Metric.