Trance Review: Ciaran McAuley & Shelby Merry - The Party out now via Black Hole Recordings

10.0

Overall Score

If there’s a better way to put 2025 on notice, damned if we know what it is! Having bossed it through the last 365 (not least with his springtime-firing ‘Love Heals’ and ‘Techno Club’ mixcomp instalment), Irelander Ciaran McAuley activates January through the emotively powerful stir of ‘The Party’.

One of McAuley’s hallmarks is drawing on distinct, original voices with which to frame his productions (Audrey Gallagher, Christina Novelli, Clara Yates and Linney all past notables). In Shelby Merry though, that methodology may have reached a new zenith. Shelby, an Ohio-born/Nashville-based singer-songwriter, first crossed over from her country, folk, and blues roots to the electronic music scene through her extensive work on John Askew’s 2024 album.

‘The Party’s title doubtless suggests one very specific type vibe, but vocally and lyrically Shelby always deconstructs the obvious and conventional. Her words feel raw and autobiographical, as talk of “broken crystal” and “being mean” hint at relationship-waters far from serene. As her song reaches its emotional peak (“I hope you’ll find a girl that doesn’t look like me”) you’re left wondering whether this ‘Party’ ever took place at all—or is simply a brilliantly crafted metaphor. Ciaran meanwhile matches her poignant lyrics with a production that knows when to dial back and vocally spotlight, and when to soar through its synth-driven intensity.

A tale for anyone who’s relationship has ever gone to ‘that place’, ‘The Party’ is available now through all good streaming and sales channels HERE.

Tracklist:

01: Ciaran McAuley & Shelby Merry - The Party (Original Mix)

02: Ciaran McAuley & Shelby Merry - The Party (Extended Mix)

Dimitris Kechagias Review:

Ciaran McAuley & Shelby Merry - The Party10

Summary

Ciaran McAuley, a prominent figure in the trance music genre, has consistently released exceptional tracks on a diverse range of labels. His upcoming single, “The Party,” featuring Shelby Merry on vocals, promises to be an uplifting and euphoric vocal trance masterpiece. Shelby Merry’s deep and meaningful vocals deliver heartfelt lyrics that will resonate with a wide audience. Notably, the song is a complete composition, rather than merely a vocal line over a beautiful soundscape. The breakdown section is particularly captivating, featuring blissful and wishful vocals by Shelby accompanied by swirling strings, melancholic piano chords, and gradually building euphoric synths. These elements culminate in an euphoric climax while maintaining a subtle melancholic undertone, reflecting Shelby’s ethereal vocal presence. Following her successful collaboration with John Askew, Shelby continues to captivate audiences with her exceptional work on Ciaran McAuley’s signature mythical soundscapes. Ciaran's productions has garnered widespread acclaim and has earned him a dedicated following globally. #PureGold Love IT

10.0

Overall Score

Beat and Rhythm10

Basslines and Groove10

Melody 10

Synths 10

Breakdown10

Climax / Drop / Crescendo / Pay off moment10

Intensity, Drive and Energy10

Sound-design and Arrangement10

Overall Atmosphere10

Goosebumps / Shivers moments10