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Lost Language is a label steeped in rich history, starting out as a auxiliary to the mighty Hooj Choons, but a force in its own right for over a decade now. One of their new breed producers is Bernie Allen from Vancouver who follows his well received single 'Etheral Love' with this impressive debut album. Wonderfully melodic and moving trance which takes plenty of inspiration (and soul) from the golden era. Across the nine tracks, 'Sun Atlas', 'Mirage', and 'Moonfish' jump out, that said the whole lot is top draw and plenty of playable moments. Very impressive first album, and a name to watch for the future.
It's producers like Orjan Nilsen who keep the dance music scene exciting and moving forward. With no two tracks ever the same, Norway's shining light continues to rip every page in the rule book and merge the genre barriers with some of the freshest sounds around. His latest 'Violetta' is the second single from his forthcoming (and much anticipated) album, and it's another energetic assault on the senses, building like a sky scrapper before the ultimate in peak time drops. This is stadium sized music that sounds like a soundtrack to the biggest party on earth. Armin has been championing over the past weeks, now yours to get!
Russia's prolific Alexander Popov has undoubtedly paved the way for a wrath of talented youngsters such as Arty over the past few years. He is best known for his beautifully dramatic and orchestral style which is showcased once again on this showstopper for Armind. The ultimate stamp of approval on just how awe inspiring it is, comes from it being the opening tune to disc 2 of Armins 'ASOT 2013' compilation. A much deserved feat no doubt achieved from his shattering melodies that made tracks like 'Elegia' and 'Awakening' such favorites, this is sure to hit all the right buttons and once again make both your hairs and arms rise to the sky.
America's Tritonal have been making serious waves over the past year or so, with their close association with the Enhanced label playing a key part in their steady development to now be ranked in the elite. Here they present four new cuts of one of the standout tracks from their 'Metamorphic' EP. The unique tones of vocalist Underdown plays a key part in all these, with the pair leading the charge with their own up tempo and power synth festival mix that will raise the atmosphere and blood pressure. We are feeling the crunchy cut from US upcoming producer Ken Loi with plenty of attitude working in contrast with the big melodies. A more twisted and darker interpretation from Sebjak is also well worth a spin.
Since his early releases on Alphabet City, and Platipus, Sweden's Airbase has continued to be one of the most consistent producers out there. His latest Armin endorsed smash for the ASOT flagship is a thing of real beauty. He combines a nicely rounded rolling bassline and sharp beats with a playful and expertly composed piano lead which trickles and builds transcending into a futuristic electric riff out of the break. His musicality is showcased to the max here, and those that were into 'Uppercut' will no doubt be blown away once again. Essential tune over the coming months.
It is fair to say Euphonic is home for German Ronski Speed, however over the years he has also had a close relationship with Anjunabeats which we are glad to see continues on this, his biggest track in some time. 'Pink Skye' is said to be one of Above & Beyonds favourite tracks from 'Volume 10', which is understandable as the coming together of Ronski and LA producer Syntrobic is an absolute treat. The lush piano riff and gently warming layers are the first to capture, and with the addition of Rene Stahl's delicately distant vocals haunting through the breakdown it's a real spine tingler. Anjunabeats newbie Toby Hedges delivers a punchy remix providing a perfect alternate take.. Check it out!
The Rank1 name is one that represents quality, and although they ensure its more that than quantity.. over the years they have stacked up an unbelievable amount of killers. The pair pioneered the tech trance sound which so many have followed, and they continue to move forward and sound fresh as ever with the latest (suitably titled) 'Floorlifter'. It's all about that bassline (as is so often the case), with shuffly percussion and dramatic delays setting the bed for a hi-tech bass and layers of futuristic electric synth lines battling their way over the top, twisting and building at every 16 bars and keeping the energy high octane throughout. These guys will never run out of ideas, and we will never tire of hearing them.. Essential!
This will brighten your day, and weekend (many of them in fact). Paul Van Dyky's Vandit label is best known (and loved) as a breeding ground for new talent, and this latest goes back to those routes with a debut from promising Czech pairing Shato & Paul Rockseek. 'Deer Friends' is punchy and up-tempo grabbing you from the moment of hitting play. A hooky and catchy electric lead keeps the energy high and never seems to tire, running alongside some infectious chopped vocals and the pairs snappy percussion it makes for a feel good vibe that will lift the mood in any set and will no doubt have the floor rocking. It is light hearted and fun yet with plenty of staying power, packing in all the ingredients for summer time anthem. We can't get enough of it.
Key to the longevity and domination of the Armada group of labels is the identity and USP of each of its imprints. One of the flagships (of not just the empire but trance and prog in general) is Markus Schulz Coldharbour (in their 10th year!), and this 32nd part of the 'Selections' collection is reason as to why. Kicking off with the massive 4 Strings remix of 'The Light' by Omnia. A fresh take from Mike Saint-Jules on the classic 'Wave Force' by Perry O'Neil which captures a real epic flair. While completing the trio of gems is the wonderfully warming and melodic 'Breaking' from Colombian talent Eddy Karmona. All three of these need to be loaded in the battle arsenal over the coming months
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