Despite his background studying mathematics at Oxford University, James Holden decided to embark on a career in electronic music. The DJ released his first single at the age of 19 in the late 1990s, a neo-trance track that caught the attention of multiple UK record labels. Holden continued to progress his sound, branching off into the territories of minimalist techno, IDM and electronica, winning over a larger audience with each release. Eventually, the London-based producer started his own label, Border Community, which helped launch the career of many other respected DJs and producers, and established Holden as a leading member of the UK's electronic music community.
