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Trance Review: AA Meeting - Flashback out on VII

 


The aliens return for another trip around the galaxy. AA Meeting doing what they do best with a high voltage, driving trance riffer that draws influence from the Vandit glory days but with a fresh, modern approach to the production. This is the one to play when you need to take the roof off...





Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]AA Meeting - Flashback [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]AA Meeting, the dynamic collaboration between trance legends John Askew and Activa, showcases an exceptional blend of technical prowess and creative flair in their track "Flashback." Operating at a vigorous 142 BPM, this uplifting instrumental trance masterpiece exemplifies meticulous production techniques and a masterful grasp of sonic architecture. From a technical perspective, "Flashback" is anchored by its robust arrangement and immersive sound design. The foundation is laid with energetic, pulsating basslines crafted through precise sidechain compression, ensuring they maintain a rhythmic synergy with the track's thumping kicks. These kicks, likely enhanced with layered samples and subtle transient shaping, provide a driving force that underscores the track's relentless energy. The percussion elements, including the pounding drums, are meticulously processed with high-pass filtering and reverb automation to create spatial depth and dynamic movement. The melancholic piano melody that leads the track introduces an emotional nuance, its reverb-drenched timbre intertwining seamlessly with the underlying acid overtones. These acid lines, likely generated using classic analog synths with resonant filter tweaks and modulation envelopes, inject a raw, hypnotic edge that contrasts beautifully with the melodic components. As the track progresses, big swirling synths come into play, constructed through layered oscillator stacks and complex modulation matrices. These synths build tension and anticipation, employing techniques like filter sweeps, LFO-driven panning, and gradual reverb decay reduction to heighten intensity. The breakdown stands out for its extended, atmospheric quality, featuring a rich tapestry of synthy plucks and airy harps. The plucks, possibly achieved with subtractive synthesis and careful envelope shaping, provide a crisp, ethereal texture. The harps add a delicate, whimsical touch, enhanced by lush reverb tails and stereo widening effects. This section masterfully builds towards the climax, utilizing crescendoing white noise sweeps, pitch risers, and strategic silence to amplify the eventual drop. The climax itself is a payoff of epic proportions, designed for that quintessential "hands in the air" moment. The elements converge in a powerful synthesis of melody, rhythm, and texture, showcasing AA Meeting's deep understanding of trance music's emotional and technical dimensions. #PureGold indeed—"Flashback" is a testament to the intricate art of trance production, where every sonic detail is crafted with precision and passion. #LoveIT [/content]
[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]




Additional info:
linktr.ee/djjohnaskew
linktr.ee/activaofficial
linktr.ee/theviicrew