2024 proved to be a big 365 for Avis Vox. It saw the release of ‘Skin’, her debut longplayer, which surpassed its first million Spotify streams within months of release. Off the back of it came hits like ‘Block Rocking Beats’, (which found turntable favour with Solomun at his recent Sphere LV show) and ‘Illusion’, which racked up 700,000 TikTok views. In and around, the supremely talented artist has kept airwaves and turntables alight, through the likes of her A*S*Y*S* collaboration ‘Body, Mind & Soul’ (which spent six weeks in the Beatport peaktime techno chart), ‘Silent’ alongside Miss Monique and ‘Bird Life’, which featured on PARAFRAME’s ‘Metropolis’ album earlier in the year.

In name and nature ‘Breaking Out’s exactly what she’s doing with her latest though, as Avis once again assumes full lyrical, vocal and studio control to deliver a firestarting new release.

From the off, ‘Breaking Out’ pulses with hypnotically subby bass and rhythmic percussives, while its techy FX and scything sub-riffs add to its darker energy. Through her song, Avis’s explores themes of self-expression, personal identity and permanence. “This is who I want to be … for life”, she affirms, as ‘Breaking Out’s curling 303 creeps out of its double-deep drop to deliver a wild ride conclusion.

Floor-bound, start-through-finish, Avis Vox expands the room today with ‘Breaking Out’. Find it wherever the quality electronic music is streamed or sold. HERE

[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Avis Vox’s latest release on Black Hole Recordings, "Breaking Out," is an exceptional melodic techno anthem clocking in at 130 BPM, exemplifying peak-time energy with a meticulous production process. The track is anchored by deep, resonant basslines that are finely tuned to create a pulsating drive, complemented by thumping kicks that maintain a consistent, heart-thumping rhythm. The punchy percussion layers are crafted with precision, offering crisp, syncopated hits that enhance the track’s dynamic flow. Diving into the technical details, "Breaking Out" showcases a masterful use of synthesis and sound design, likely utilizing analog synths and digital plugins to achieve its rich, textured soundscape. The basslines exhibit a warm, analog feel, possibly shaped through subtractive synthesis techniques, while the leads and atmospheric pads suggest the use of reverb and delay effects to create expansive sonic spaces. Influences from Moonbeam and Paraframe are evident in the track’s intelligent arrangement and emotive undertones, blending seamlessly with the nostalgic essence of the late 90s German trance scene, reminiscent of Jam & Spoon’s monumental sound. The track structure is meticulously crafted, with builds and drops that are both predictable yet thrilling, maintaining listener engagement through subtle variations and evolving motifs. Avis Vox’s vocal performance adds a distinctive character to "Breaking Out." The vocals are processed with effects such as slight pitch modulation, reverb, and delay, enhancing their ethereal quality without overshadowing the instrumental elements. The breakdown section is particularly memorable, featuring a haunting melody that lingers long after the track concludes—a testament to its compelling harmonic progression and catchy phrasing.Overall, "Breaking Out" is not just a track but an immersive auditory experience, showcasing Avis Vox’s talent in blending technical proficiency with emotional resonance. It’s a single poised to resonate on dance floors and in personal playlists alike, marking a significant step in her artistic journey. #PureGold Love iT [/content]

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The NK head A&R is back on his favourite label with another belter of a track! Ryan fuses the darker sounds of trance expertly into this tech beast! Hard hitting drums, bass, fx and a catchy stab lead combine to deliver pure energy!

[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Ryan K has undeniably cemented his reputation as one of the foremost trance producers of the new generation, consistently delivering formidable anthems that traverse a diverse spectrum of trance styles. His latest offering, "Protocol 2F6," is a 142 BPM mainstage tech trancer crafted with meticulous production techniques that showcase his mastery of sound design and audio engineering. The track opens with a gritty, raw bassline that sets an aggressive tone, meticulously processed with multi-band distortion and saturation to achieve its rugged texture. The hard-hitting beats are sculpted through layered percussive elements, combining punchy analog drum machine samples with crisp digital transients. The kick drum, described as thunderous and "Godzilla-sized," is a testament to Ryan K's precision in sound layering—achieved through a combination of sub-bass reinforcement and transient shaping to maintain clarity and impact even in dense mixes. Protocol 2F6’s unique character is further accentuated by its use of horror-style spoken vocal samples, cleverly integrated through time-stretching and pitch modulation to complement the dark, moody atmosphere. The haunting synth hook channels the spirit of late '90s German hard trance, crafted using vintage-inspired virtual analog synthesizers with resonant filter sweeps and detuned oscillator stacks to evoke a nostalgic yet fresh feel. The arrangement is meticulously structured to build tension and release, with dynamic automation controlling filter cutoffs, reverb tails, and delay feedback levels, creating a sense of evolving energy. The climactic drop is engineered to maximize dancefloor impact, employing sidechain compression techniques to allow the kick and bass to dominate without overwhelming the melodic elements. In essence, "Protocol 2F6" is not just a track but an experience—a relentless, high-octane journey through meticulously crafted sonic landscapes designed to captivate and energize both trance and techno aficionados alike. Ryan K’s technical prowess and innovative production processes solidify this track as a destined mainstage anthem. #PureGold Love iT[/content]

[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Doppenberg & Harshil Kamdar have once again demonstrated their mastery in trance production with "Afterglow," a 138 BPM euphoric uplifter that resonates with both technical brilliance and emotive depth. The track opens with a commanding low-end foundation, featuring meticulously layered basslines that seamlessly integrate sub-bass and mid-bass elements. This creates a robust, driving groove that anchors the track's energy. The basslines are sidechained with precision to allow the thunderous kick drums to punch through, providing that quintessential trance heartbeat. The percussion arrangement deserves special mention. It employs a blend of traditional 909 drum machine hits, enhanced with modern digital processing to achieve a crisp, head-crushing texture. High-frequency shakers and hi-hats are strategically panned for a wide stereo image, adding to the track's dynamic feel without overwhelming the midrange frequencies. The breakdown is where "Afterglow" truly shines, showcasing Doppenberg & Kamdar's adeptness at melodic composition and atmospheric engineering. A warm, reverb-drenched piano melody emerges, accompanied by lush orchestral strings that add a cinematic layer of depth. The use of cool spoken vocal samples, subtly processed with delay and reverb, injects an ethereal quality, setting the stage for the track’s climactic build. Production techniques such as automated filter sweeps, reverb tails, and risers crafted with white noise and pitch modulation are employed to heighten anticipation. The transition from the breakdown to the drop is executed flawlessly, with tension-building snare rolls and dynamic EQing that gradually reintroduces the full frequency spectrum. The climax delivers an explosive "hands-in-the-air" moment, characterized by soaring lead synths crafted with supersaw waveforms, layered and detuned to create a rich harmonic texture. These melodies are both uplifting and emotionally resonant, designed to evoke feelings of love, hope, and happiness. "Afterglow" is not just a track; it's a meticulously crafted auditory experience. Its optimistic, epic energy is rooted in both its technical prowess and emotive storytelling, making it a standout euphoric trancer with a harder, edgy foundation. #PureGold indeed. Love iT [/content]

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[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Mitiska, Midnite Amity, and Mully have crafted an exquisite melodic progressive trance masterpiece with "Say It," set at a captivating 125 BPM. From a technical perspective, the track showcases a meticulously engineered sound design that blends deep, pulsating basslines with precision-tuned thumping kicks, forming a robust rhythmic foundation. The basslines are likely sculpted using sidechain compression techniques to create that signature pumping effect, seamlessly interwoven with playful percussive elements that add dynamic energy and movement.

Layered atop this rhythmic bed are warm, lush strings and ethereal melodies, crafted with a combination of analog synthesizers and digital plugins to achieve a rich, textured soundscape. The use of reverb and delay effects enhances the atmospheric quality, creating a sense of spatial depth that envelops the listener. The vocal performance is a standout element, processed with subtle pitch correction and harmonic layering to maintain its natural warmth while providing clarity and emotional resonance. The emotionally touching lyrics are enhanced by careful EQ balancing, ensuring the vocals sit perfectly within the mix without overpowering the instrumental arrangement. The production process likely involved meticulous automation to control the evolution of sound elements throughout the track. This is especially evident in the smooth, melodic climax, where melodic techno influences emerge. Here, darker, more aggressive, and dystopian melodies take center stage, possibly created using complex arpeggiators and modulated synth filters to add tension and release. Overall, "Say It" is not just a track but an auditory journey, showcasing expert sound design, sophisticated production techniques, and an emotional core that resonates with warmth, tenderness, and unmistakable summer Balearic vibes. #PureGold Love iT[/content]

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1. Marc Dawn - Expander (Sasha Vatoff Extended Remix)

[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Marc Dawn's seminal track "Expander" receives a masterful re-imagining by Sasha Vatoff, an artist renowned for his expertise in remixing classic trance anthems. Vatoff's version is a 140 BPM euphoric trance masterpiece that showcases his deep understanding of both the technical and emotional elements required to elevate a track to epic proportions.

The production begins with a solid foundation of huge metallic basslines, crafted with precision using layered sub-bass and distorted mid-range elements to create a powerful, driving force. The bass design employs sidechain compression to achieve that quintessential pulsing effect, perfectly synchronized with the track’s thumping drums and tough kicks. The kicks are meticulously processed, featuring tight EQing and transient shaping to ensure they cut through the dense mix without overwhelming the other elements. Euphoric synths are at the heart of Vatoff's remake, with rich, layered leads that combine supersaw waveforms, complex modulated filters, and subtle detuning to create a wall of sound that feels both expansive and emotionally charged. The use of reverb and delay effects adds to the spatial depth, giving the synths a soaring, ethereal quality. The breakdown is a standout feature, dominated by a stunning cinematic orchestral reinterpretation of the original themes. Vatoff integrates meticulously arranged strings, including dynamic violin sections that add a dramatic, almost film-score-like intensity. The operatic chorus voices are harmonized with precision, layered with reverb and subtle pitch modulation to enhance their haunting, majestic presence. As the track builds toward its climax, Vatoff skillfully reintroduces the big synth hooks with a crescendo of automation techniques—filter sweeps, rising white noise, and gradual increases in reverb tails—adding to the adrenaline-charged anticipation. The drop explodes with mouthwatering energy, featuring adrenaline-pumping melodies and stunning euphoric synths that are both harmonically rich and rhythmically engaging. Overall, Sasha Vatoff’s re-imagining of "Expander" is not just a remix; it’s an epic anthemic trance experience. His meticulous attention to production details, innovative sound design, and masterful arrangement techniques result in a track that is both technically impressive and emotionally exhilarating. #PureGold indeed. #LoveIT [/content]

[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item]

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Dutch electronic titan Hardwell lit up Ultra Music Festival Miami last month with the debut of his latest single, ‘Sanctuary’. Unveiled as the powerful opener to his main stage set, the track instantly captivated the crowd with its progressive melodic energy and trance-tinged euphoria. This sound perfectly embodies Hardwell’s ever-evolving mainstage style.

This year’s appearance marked Hardwell’s 11th performance on Ultra’s iconic Main Stage, and it proved to be one for the history books. The set was packed with both unreleased gems and a catalogue of classic Hardwell anthems, alongside a host of festival favourites that kept the energy at peak level from start to finish.

‘Sanctuary’ stands as a significant chapter in Hardwell’s ongoing artistic evolution. Offering a subtle departure from his recent techno-inspired direction, the track leans into emotive melodies and uplifting builds, driven by a dynamic arrange ment that nods to his mainstage foundation while drawing inspiration from the melodic depths of trance.

Fans can relive the moment and experience ‘Sanctuary’ live by watching Hardwell’s complete Ultra 2025 set on YouTube.

Adding to the celebrations inMiami, Hardwell and fellow Dutch icon Armin van Buuren were honoured with the news that their 2024 collaboration ‘Follow The Light’ had won ‘Best Mainstage Song of the Year’ at the EDMA Awards. A fitting accolade for a track from two of the scene’s biggest pioneers.

Hardwell ‘Sanctuary’ is out now via Revealed Recordings.

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Prepare to be transported through the rich history of trance with A State Of Trance - Classics Top 10, Vol. 1, an extraordinary compilation that celebrates the anthems that defined a generation. Carefully curated for both longtime trance enthusiasts and newcomers, this collection bridges the past and present with iconic tracks that have set dance floors alight around the globe.

 

It includes: Blue Fear, A seminal piece from the trance maestro himself, "Blue Fear" marked the early brilliance of Armin van Buuren. Its hypnotic melody and driving beats laid the foundation for his legendary career. Chicane's "Offshore" redefined chill-out trance with its ethereal soundscapes. The 2007 remix elevates this classic with fresh energy while preserving its serene, oceanic vibe. Happiness Happening (Lange Extended Remix) by Lost Witness: Lange’s remix of "Happiness Happening" is a euphoric masterpiece, blending soaring vocals with uplifting synths that capture the essence of classic trance. Known for his Balearic influences, DJ Shah’s "Palmarosa" is a lush, melodic track that evokes sunsets over Ibiza with its warm, tropical undertones. The Theme – Jurgen Vries: A festival favorite, "The Theme" combines orchestral grandeur with pulsating trance rhythms, creating an anthemic sound that resonates with crowds worldwide. Pacific Dreams embodies classic trance purity with its atmospheric progression and deep, driving basslines, showcasing M.I.K.E.’s signature style.  A defining track in trance history, "Gamemaster" by Matt Darey and his project  Lost Tribe is revered for its mystical melodies and haunting chants, transporting listeners to another dimension. A true club anthem, "Pearl River" by Three 'N One and Johnny Shaker captivates with its hypnotic hooks and euphoric build-ups, epitomizing the ’90s trance era. With its heartfelt vocals and uplifting arrangement, "Forgiven" by The Space Brothers is an emotional rollercoaster, blending spirituality with dancefloor energy.  Reimagined by Marcus Schössow, this remix breathes new life into the trance classic "Carte Blanche" by Veracocha maintaining its iconic melody while adding a modern, progressive twist.

A State Of Trance - Classics Top 10, Vol. 1 is more than just a collection; it’s a tribute to the tracks that shaped a genre and inspired millions. Available now, this is a must-have for any trance aficionado’s library.

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[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Ben Nicky and HIX’s latest release on Armada Music is a masterful fusion of trance and dance pop elements, encapsulating pure euphoria through meticulous production techniques and high-energy compositions. Operating at an invigorating 138 BPM, the track exudes a summery, sunkissed vibe that’s both uplifting and infectious. The production showcases a dynamic interplay between robust, energetic basslines and intricate, punchy percussion. The basslines are crafted using layered saw waves, processed through sidechain compression to create that signature pulsing rhythm synonymous with trance music. This technique allows the bass to breathe around the kick drum, enhancing the track's driving force. The kicks themselves are sharp and dynamic, designed through careful EQing and layering of multiple kick samples to achieve both depth and clarity. The transient shaping ensures that each kick cuts through the mix, providing a solid foundation for the track’s rhythmic structure. A hallmark of this release is its colorful, euphoric synth work. The synths are created using a range of virtual analog synthesizers, featuring supersaw patches with extensive use of reverb and delay effects. This combination adds a lush, expansive feel, contributing to the track’s optimistic and hopeful atmosphere. The automation of filter cutoffs and resonance throughout the track adds dynamic movement, keeping the listener engaged. Tori Smith’s pop-infused vocals are a standout feature, seamlessly integrated into the mix. The vocals are processed with subtle tuning, reverb, and delay to maintain clarity while blending harmoniously with the instrumental layers. Vocal chops are skillfully used in the breakdown sections, adding texture and a catchy hook that encourages singalongs. The arrangement follows a well-crafted structure, with tension-building risers and snare rolls leading into euphoric drops, a tried-and-true method in trance and dance pop to maintain energy and excitement. The mastering process ensures a polished final product, with balanced frequency distribution, wide stereo imaging, and competitive loudness levels suitable for both club play and radio airwaves. Overall, this release is a testament to Ben Nicky and HIX’s prowess in blending technical sophistication with emotional resonance, delivering a track that appeals to a broad spectrum of dance music enthusiasts. #PureGold #LoveIT [/content]

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David Forbes brings the rave with 'All My Friends Are Hot'—a hard-hitting techno-trance weapon built for peak-time destruction. Inspired by the big-room, acid-infused mainstage sound that’s been dominating festivals through acts like Armin van Buuren, Maddix and Eli Brown, David Forbes' new single is ready to bring the house down with pure, unadulterated energy.

[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] David Forbes, renowned for his relentless production prowess, once again asserts his dominance in the trance scene with his latest high-octane release, "All My Friends Are Hot." Operating at a pulsating 143 BPM, this track is a masterclass in euphoric trance production, engineered meticulously to ignite dancefloors worldwide. Diving into the technicalities, Forbes masterfully fuses elements of mainstage techno with traditional trance aesthetics. The track opens with a robust foundation laid by thunderous, hard-hitting kicks that are meticulously side-chained to create a dynamic punch, seamlessly syncing with the driving basslines. These basslines are layered with precision, employing both sub and mid-range frequencies to ensure a rich, enveloping sound that maintains clarity even at peak volumes. The percussive elements feature a raw, dark metallic texture, achieved through intricate sound design techniques, possibly involving granular synthesis and heavy reverb tails to add depth and resonance. This gives the track an industrial edge, enhancing its underground vibe. Forbes' signature synth work shines in the breakdown, where airy, trancy plucks are layered with lush, euphoric pads. The synths are crafted using high-resonance filters and modulated with LFOs to create a shimmering, pulsating effect that elevates the emotional intensity. The breakdown serves as a poignant contrast to the track’s aggressive main sections, providing a moment of melodic respite before the energy surges again. The build-up is a crescendo of tension, skillfully employing white noise sweeps, pitch risers, and strategically placed vocal samples. The vocal snippet, "all my friends are hot and they dance only to techno," is cleverly integrated, adding a catchy, memorable hook that resonates with audiences. As the track reaches its climax, Forbes introduces layers of acid lines, crafted using classic analog emulations with resonant TB-303-style filters. These acid sequences inject a raw, rebellious spirit, enhancing the track's underground feel while maintaining its mainstage appeal. Overall, "All My Friends Are Hot" is a bold anthem, meticulously produced with a blend of modern trance techniques and techno influences. Its infectious rhythm, technical sophistication, and dancefloor-centric energy make it an undeniable #PureGold release, destined to dominate sets across the globe. #LoveIT [/content]

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Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Probspot - Blueberry (Joss Langdon Remix)[/item]
[item value="10"]Beat and Rhythm[/item]
[item value="10"]Basslines and Groove[/item]
[item value="10"] Melody [/item]
[item value="10"] Synths [/item]
[item value="10"]Breakdown[/item]
[item value="10"]Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment[/item]
[item value="10"]Intensity, Drive and Energy[/item]
[item value="10"]Sound-design and Arrangement[/item]
[item value="10"]Overall Atmosphere[/item]
[item value="10"]Goosebumps / Shivers moments[/item]
[item value="10"]Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments[/item]
[item value="10"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item]
[item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/item]
[item value="10"]Vocals & lyrics[/item]
[item value="10"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item]
[item value="10"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item]
[/review]

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