Biography

Music has always been core to Rico's life, from family holidays spent plugged into a cheap cassette walkman to today's worldwide travels', the soundtrack to an exciting and diverse youth has been complimented perfectly by the emotional strength of trance that has emanated from his monitors for over 9 years.

Born and educated in Surrey, England, Rico's passion for music began at the tender age of 9. A small portable cassette player, received as a Christmas gift from a relative was the catalyst that led to the onset of a recording career beginning with mix-tapes of his favourite records of the time.

Fast forward two years and his first exposure to the early trance sounds of the mid to late nineties, were to fuel his love for trance in the years to come. Productions such as 'Offshore' by Chicane, Bruno Sanchioni and Giuseppe Cherchia's 'Age of Love' and Paul Van Dyk's legendary debut album '45RPM' back in 1994 were just a few of hundreds of inspirational tracks of that era.

In 1999-2000, where trance in Europe broke into the mainstream, it became acceptable for Rico's passion to be shared with others. He began to play at friends parties, incorporating trance into more hardcore based sets. It enabled Rico to experiment with sounds and genres, as well as audiences. His first taste of playing to a live crowd merely fueled his desire to spread the 'Universal Religion' with others. Rico has many fond memories of this 'golden age' of trance, reminiscing on trips to the Iberian Peninsula.

The demise of trance to the underground, forced by the upcoming urban scene, Rico had to adapt his sound to ensure his securing of live performances, something that he has always held highly. The influence of uplifting or 'liquid' Drum & Bass and more Breakbeat Techy sounds slowly filtered through into his sets, appealing to more varied crowds. Close friends in a Metal band also inspired some of his earliest productions, remixing some of their earliest work. Despite this, Rico's heart, soul and passion were still deep within the now arcane Trance scene. Unbeknown to his peers, caught up in the populist urban scene, he still kept his love of trance alive by purchasing vinyl from the now ceased Yahoo Auctions.

Rico's first trance 12inch was the aptly titled 'The Awakening' by York, the first piece of a collection now spanning hundreds of records. Crates of vinyl across many genres unearth gems, be it past, present or future anthems, there is a record in Rico's box for every emotion and every style of set that will leave a lasting impression on audiences. Un-phased by the onset of the digital revolution, Rico's personal collection is predominately vinyl however CDR promos are used for the most upfront material.

Graham Gold's show on Kiss100 was possibly the single greatest radio influence. Every Monday night Rico would listen intently to the blissful sounds of the latest trance and house music. It was Graham's 'House Nation' show that opened Rico's eyes to venues such as the legendary Camden Palace. It was here that at the age of 15, Rico attended his first of countless raves. It was the lure of Kiss100 and Graham Gold's very own 'Peach', one of the longest running dance music nights in the whole of London that really opened his mind and his senses to the club scene. From here he went on to attend landmark events such as Godskitchen's Global Gathering and Trance Energy in the Netherlands.

A mixing career stretching over a decade and some four aliases with countless mix compilations, has culminated in the Rico Portland brand. A brand which is ultimately based upon one conception - to share one man's journey through thought provoking sounds, through a passion, a love, a desire for the uplifting. One shared by countless others, but unexplored by many.

Recent health problems have given a new perspective on life, sparking a new approach to more than just his musical career. Avoiding the clichés, Rico used his experiences to appreciate those that are sometimes overlooked, to enjoy life by being there for others, whether through his music, or merely devoting time to those who need it most.

Indeed the basic requirement for music has had its drawbacks, with Rico enduring the tolls of playing live music for over 9 years. He has already become more aware of the dangers of hearing problems, himself suffering from light tinnitus. Approaching the problem with a realistic and sensible attitude may have prevented further damage. He has overcome this problem with specifically designed custom earplugs, but this matured thinking, is one which could benefit many across the music scene. Hearing problems are being ignored by even the most professional of DJ's.

Currently hosting a weekly dance music show during the prime time Saturday night slot on CSR FM, Rico continues to please his fans whilst preaching the word of trance, educating an ever expanding audience. His show features a track from a different producer/dj from a different country around the world, each and every week. This clever concept clearly defines the global reach of dance music, and Rico hopes to showcase talent from each and every corner of the globe. As well as this insight into world music, Rico also spins live on the decks in a 45 minute 'Saturday night' mix that comes live from CSR Towers. Be sure to catch the show on the net too at www.csrfm.com.

Rico hopes to expand his DJ horizons and concentrate on improving his production skills, as well as furthering his radio career. This is whilst enjoying inspiration from today's greats, both live and on the radio. Idols such as the present 'Number 1 DJ in the World', Armin Van Buuren, as well as hero's such as Graham Gold, Ronski Speed, and Above & Beyond help to set the level of professionalism and technical ability that Rico aspires too. Online communities, as well as close friends all provide continued support. Knowing he is not alone in his love for intelligent, uplifting music is one of the most warming sentiments. For Rico there is always a track, for every mood, every emotion, every desire and every place. For that moment when you look into the sunset, when you see those city lights flash past your car at night, when the last leaves of autumn fall... Further your senses, Further your mind, Further your Horizons.

Rico would like to take this opportunity to thank those that have inspired him over the years that haven't been mentioned above. To his brother Paul for the continued encouragement, to Tom for his ideas, creativity and support, to his family for putting up with 9 years of trance and to all his close friends (you know who you are!).