Trance Review: Ciaran McAuley & Zara Taylor - Stay out now on Black Hole Recordings

10.0

Overall Score

There’s been a distinct artistic lean to Ciaran McAuley’s most recent material (January’s ‘The Party’ w/Shelby Merry and last month’s Christian Burns-sung, ‘You’re Enough’), and it’s one that continues on with his latest. The theme’s ‘all vocal’ - a music series/trip Ciaran’s undertaking throughout 2025. He marches into March and springs into the springtime with ‘Stay’ – his first teaming with the incredible lyrical and vocal presence of Zara Taylor.

Internal struggles inform Zara’s words, as she sings “this time I’ll stay”, before cautioning “maybe”, suggesting some emotional wounds are running deeper than others. She doesn’t shy from the vulnerable either, imploring “give me one good reason not to be afraid”, hoping for hope enough to take the leap and embrace the future.

Ciaran intuitively tracks Zara’s tone with an incredible production that exudes temperately warm accord at every juncture. Through a measured tempo, throbbing bass guitar and long held, pads, strings and chords, he backs her feels every expressive step of ‘Stay’s way.

Stay or go? Stay for ‘Stay’ … then decide. Ciaran and Zara’s debut releases today and is available through all good sales and streaming channels.

Dimitris Kechagias Review:

Ciaran McAuley & Zara Taylor - Stay10

Summary

Ciaran McAuley and Zara Taylor have masterfully crafted a melodic and uplifting trance anthem titled "Stay," which exudes the vibrant essence of Ibiza. This track, set at an energetic 134 BPM, is a testament to superior production techniques and meticulous attention to detail. The foundation of "Stay" is built upon a robust and unyielding rhythm section. The driving force behind the track is its pounding drums and thumping kicks that provide a solid backbone. Complementing these elements is a tight, driving bassline that not only supports but also propels the track forward with relentless energy. Above this powerful base, Ciaran McAuley layers warm, sensual synths that add a rich layer of warmth and depth. These synth layers are intricately designed to envelop the listener, creating an immersive sonic experience. The interplay of these synths with the bassline is a hallmark of McAuley's production prowess, showcasing his ability to balance energy with emotion. The breakdown section of "Stay" is a highlight, characterized by its smooth and airy quality. It's in this segment that Zara Taylor's vocals truly shine. Her delivery is warm and moody, perfectly capturing the emotional essence of the track. Her voice is both powerful and delicate, with a timbre that speaks directly to the listener's heart. This emotive vocal performance is beautifully intertwined with the synth riffs and atmospheric elements crafted by McAuley. His ability to compose such touching and heavenly atmospheres is what sets him apart as a beloved figure in the trance music scene. Overall, "Stay" is a piece of pure gold, encapsulating the essence of vocal trance with its exquisite production, emotional depth, and technical brilliance. It's a track that not only resonates with the listener but also stands as a testament to the art of crafting music that moves both hearts and minds. #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