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Trance Review: Allen Watts - S.L.C out 18/4/2025 on Nocturnal Knights

10.0
Overall Score

 


Trance titan Allen Watts brings his energy to the NK main label with this gem of a track and a cheeky tribute to Salt Lake City! Heavy bass powers throughout the track, with a catchy fx heavy vocal providing the hook alongside a classic Watts melody with a nod to the classics!

Find on Beatport HERE




Dimitris Kechagias Review:
Allen Watts - S.L.C 10

Summary

Allen Watts continues to assert his dominance in the trance scene with his latest anthem, "S.L.C.," released under the prestigious Nocturnal Knights label. A testament to his innovative spirit, Allen deftly blends traditional uplifting trance elements with unexpected stylistic influences, showcasing his prowess in production techniques and sonic experimentation. From a technical standpoint, "S.L.C." is a masterclass in sound design and arrangement. The track opens with a driving kick drum, meticulously layered with crisp hi-hats and punchy percussive elements that create an energetic, forward-moving rhythm. The use of hip house-style vocal samples adds a dynamic texture, seamlessly integrated through precision EQ and reverb effects to maintain clarity and prominence without overshadowing other elements. Allen incorporates Dutch hard house influences, evident in the gritty basslines that provide a robust, resonant foundation. These basslines are skillfully side-chained to the kick, ensuring a powerful yet clean low-end presence. The harmonic progression is carefully structured, leading into a breathtaking breakdown where lush, euphoric synths take center stage. These synths are characterized by wide, detuned saw waves processed through expansive stereo imaging techniques, creating a rich, enveloping soundscape. The climactic section is quintessential Allen Watts—high-energy, emotionally charged, and meticulously crafted. The lead synths are layered with precision, utilizing subtle automation on parameters such as filter cutoff and resonance to build tension and release. The use of reverb and delay effects is finely tuned, adding depth without muddying the mix. What sets "S.L.C." apart is Allen's fearless incorporation of diverse influences, pushing the boundaries of traditional trance music while maintaining his signature sound. The track's production quality is a testament to his technical expertise, balancing complexity and clarity to deliver a powerful auditory experience. #PureGold indeed—this anthem is a vibrant, headbanging journey that resonates on both an emotional and technical level. 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
Emotional affinity and heartfelt moments10
Originality and Inventiveness10
Radio Friendly10
Vocals & lyrics10
You can’t get this memorable track out of your head10
It has potential to become an anthem or a classic10





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