When it comes to music in Malta, the island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, there is one name that stands out as the top drummer in the country: Benji Cachia, best known as Banjo Rancho. Known for his impeccable rhythmic concepts, diverse range of styles, and infectious energy on stage, Benji has become a beloved figure in the Maltese music scene. His talent, dedication, and passion for music have earned him respect and admiration not just in Malta but also around the world.

Early Life and Musical Influences

Benji was born in Malta and from a young age, he was exposed to music, thanks to his parents who encouraged his musical journey. He started off learning the piano and the guitar but it wasn’t until he sat at a drum set that he went off on the ride of a lifetime. 

Growing up, Benji was influenced by a wide range of musical styles; jazz, rock, funk, reggae, heavy metal, world, and soul. He was inspired by drummers such as Buddy Rich, Gene Krupa, Max Roach, Joey Jordison, John Bonham, and many others. He would spend hours listening to their records, studying their techniques, and incorporating their ideas into his playing.

Being self-taught most of his life, he encourages students to find their way and take control and direction of what their purpose is on the instrument. 

Career and Achievements

Benji’s talent and dedication quickly caught the attention of other musicians in the scene, and he soon found himself playing with some of Malta’s most renowned bands and musicians. His versatility and ability to adapt to any style of music made him a sought-after session drummer, and he worked with artists across genres, from jazz to rock to hip-hop, etc.

In 2009, he became a full-time musician, which then led him to play with many award-winning bands such as no snow/Noalps, Red Electrick, The Ranch, and many more on a variety of projects.  

Benji has toured extensively with bands, playing more than 100+ international shows, as headliners, or as supporting acts in festivals, including exposure on international radio. These include; the Malta International Jazz Festival, Earth Garden, Teatru Unplugged, Karel music expo, Clear mountains festival, Trakafest, Troubador, Beerfest Malta, The Bubble fest, Dance Festival Malta, Rock the South, Prog the Islands, Malta arts festival, Balcony tv, Nakskov Festival, Malta takes London, Notte Bianca, Ziguzajg festival, Ghana fest, Andertons, Sunscape festival, side out Festival, Sacred noise and Rai 2.

He has shared the stage with world-class musicians such as Pete Lockett, John Butler, Plini, Fernando Hernandez (original drummer of Queens of the stone age) Guthrie Govan, Giri Udupa, Dry the River, and Delta Sleep, and many others. His performances have been praised for their energy, creativity, and musicality.

In addition to his work as a drummer, Benji is also a dedicated music educator. He has taught kids and adults of all ages and mixed abilities at several schools and has also carried out workshops and masterclasses. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with young musicians and inspiring them to pursue their dreams.

In 2014, Benji decided to embark on a new additional journey of hand percussion – an exciting development for any musician. 

Jumping into a new world of culture, language, and rhythm, with the use of different instruments such as Darbuka, Tabla, Djembe, Frame drum, Cajon, and more, enabled him to understand better the techniques and rhythmic languages used in different cultures. He mainly studied Turkish rhythms using the Darbuka, South Indian Carnatic rhythmic system Konnakol, and more recently the Tabla, from North Indian Hindustani music. 

His decision to delve into hand percussion is an exciting one that opens up many possibilities for creative expression and musical growth.

Overall, Benji’s influence on the Maltese music scene cannot be overstated. His talent, dedication, and passion for music have made him a beloved figure in the Maltese music scene and a respected musician worldwide. From his early days to his current status as a master drummer and educator, Benji has inspired and influenced countless musicians with his infectious energy, impeccable rhythmic understanding, and diverse range of styles. He has inspired a new generation of drummers to pick up the sticks and pursue their dreams. He has achieved great success as a performer, composer, and educator, and his contributions to the music world are significant and long-lasting. Benji’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians to come.