10 April 2010 (gig)
10 April 2010
Since 1995, Festival Internacional de Benicassim (FIB) has been a pilgrimage of sorts for many Europeans: combine sandy beaches and the relaxed Spanish lifestyle with all night music, events and (yes!) drinking and partying, and you have the ultimate summer break. Although in recent years, the event has become increasingly commercial (to the dismay of many early adopters), FIB seems to have kept it roots, still offering great alternative Spanish acts alongside big names past and present, and fusing dance and indie rock in a way few other festivals manage. But despite its huge success over the past 15 years, few non-Spaniards would know the following names: Luis Calvo, Joako Ezpeleta, and the Morán brothers, José and Miguel.
In 1994, Spain was experiencing something of a small-scale cultural revolution in its capital city: eyes and ears were turning away from purely Spanish sounds as young Madrileños sought to catch up on the latest sensations from the UK and US underground. At this time, Calvo and Ezpeleta were running a culture magazine called Spiral, and regularly supporting local music and bands aiming to capture the new sounds from abroad. One venue of particular significance was Sala Maravillas, a home for Spanish indie rock, occasionally importing some better known international artists but mainly supporting the changing tide of popular local tastes.
Sala Maravillas was run by the Morán brothers, and the four knew each other somewhat through local concerts and the scene itself. After several informal chats during and after late night performances, the four guys realised they shared an ideal: 'We would dream of creating the perfect space for an international gathering of young music lovers; a place full of unique, enriching and unforgettable experiences where people could share their interests and passion for music and life while providing an emotionally-charged base of support for cutting-edge bands to put on really amazing and one-of-a-kind shows.' And so the idea for a music festival was born, bringing together international and local artists, and attracting music fans from all corners of the globe.
A summer holiday cemented the idea: the Spanish coastline and temperate weather seemed a perfect setting for the dream festival. After some tentative approaches, the four young men were able to approach the mayor of the small holiday town of Benicassim, and discuss their plans. Far from being dismissive, Señor Francesc Colomer could see the huge commercial benefits of such an undertaking, and boldly accepted the idea in principle. Due to its excellent rail connections, and proximity to major airports, Benicassim was well situated to accept in influx of tourists, both national and international. The first weekend of the following August was earmarked, and suddenly the truth hit home: the guys had an idea and a venue, now the real hard work was to set in.
And hard work was what was required once the guys realised how little experience they had in such a massive undertaking. Added to this, many Spanish promoters refused to take them seriously, thereby drying up potential investment lines from within the country.But through a combination of skill, luck, and support from many who wished to see the event take place, the first ever FIB took place the 4th to the 6th of August 1995 at the Benicassim Velodrome, pulling in over 8000 revellers. Headliners included the Jesus and Mary Chain, Supergrass, and the Charlatans, supposedly enticed for the support of new ventures, although the Morán brothers believe it had more to do with the backstage swimming pool and free bar! More importantly, though, the event was given huge credibility abroad: not only did the festival work, it offered far more than just a festival experience. Here was a true example of a European idea from a Spanish perspective, offering all the attributes of a UK indie festival in the settings of the beautiful Spanish coast.
Although over the years many things have changed (Heineken now sponsor the event, and VPMG are now full owners after buying out the Morán brothers in 2009), the core essence of the festival is still unchanged. Yes, there are more stages, and yes, the names are bigger than ever, but with such a great mix of foreigners and locals, as well as the ever present Spanish hospitality, FIB is still an enormous draw for all Europeans of all ages. And by offering something for everyone, long may it continue!
