Solarstone, the renowned producer, composer, and DJ Richard Mowatt, returns to Black Hole Recordings with “Dream Sequence,” a progressive house track that pays homage to the genre’s early days. This track draws inspiration from artists like Underworld and Leftfield, showcasing Solarstone’s enduring influence in the progressive house scene.
Solarstone’s impact on the genre is profound, having been a scene founding father, ringleader, and flag-bearer of the Pure Trance movement. His influence stretches back almost as far as the genre itself.
Releases like “Solarcoaster,” “The Calling,” and “Seven Cities” are all benchmark classics of the pre-millennial period. Among them, “Seven Cities” stands out as one of the first Balearic trance anthems. It has been re-released three times and has sold over half a million copies. Remixed by renowned artists like Armin van Buuren, its instantly recognizable sunset/sunrise sound legacy continues to resonate in contemporary tracks.
In addition to his solo releases, Solarstone has also released eight critically acclaimed longplayers. These include albums like “Anthology One,” “RainStarsEternal,” “Touchstone,” “Pure,” the box set “One,” “Island,”and most recently Innermost.
Solarstone has been a vocal advocate for the true nature of trance since his debut. Over the past decade, he has single-handedly pushed the genre’s origin sound back to the forefront of the scene. Through his gospel of #PureTrance, he modernizes the genre’s heart while preserving its soul. Within the first year of his Pure Trance ideology, it had developed into a bona fide musical movement. This movement has been widely recognized and celebrated through major mix-compilation series, worldwide Pure Trance club and festival shows, Pure Trance, Pure Progressive, Pure Trance Neon, and Pure Breaks record labels, and his weekly radio show, Pure Trance Radio.
Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Solarstone - dream sequence [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Solarstone, the renowned producer, composer, and DJ Richard Mowatt, makes an impactful return to Black Hole Recordings with his latest progressive house masterpiece, “Dream Sequence.” This track is more than just an homage to the genre’s early days—it’s a technical showcase that underlines Solarstone’s mastery in blending nostalgic elements with contemporary production techniques. Clocking in at an engaging 130 BPM, "Dream Sequence" boasts a meticulously crafted audio landscape. The track opens with crisp, techy kicks that serve as the backbone, offering a punchy yet rounded low-end that cuts through the mix with precision. Complementing the kicks are pumping basslines, designed with a layered approach using analog synth modules for warmth and digital processing for clarity. The bassline grooves seamlessly with the drum patterns, providing both drive and fluidity. The drum arrangement is a testament to advanced production techniques. Thumping drums are interwoven with percussive elements that include tightly programmed hi-hats, shuffling shakers, and subtle glitch effects. These intricacies add rhythmic complexity without overwhelming the listener, keeping the groove dynamic throughout its nearly nine-minute runtime. The synth work in "Dream Sequence" deserves special mention. Solarstone skillfully employs cool, synthy layers rich with texture. Utilizing both vintage analog synthesizers and modern VSTs, he creates lush, atmospheric pads and arpeggiated sequences that are drenched in spatial effects. The use of distortion adds grit and character, while meticulously applied delay and reverb create a sense of vastness, echoing the late '90s UK progressive house sound reminiscent of legends like Underworld and Leftfield. In terms of production values, the mixdown is clean yet retains an organic feel. The stereo field is used effectively to place elements in a way that keeps the track immersive, and the mastering process ensures that it maintains dynamic range while achieving the loudness needed for club play. For progressive house DJs, "Dream Sequence" is an invaluable addition to their sets. Its extended structure allows for seamless transitions and creative mixing possibilities. The track’s hypnotic progression and evolving soundscape make it versatile—perfect for peak-time energy or creating atmospheric build-ups. The timeless quality embedded in its production ensures that it resonates with both new audiences and long-time fans of the genre. In summary, "Dream Sequence" is an experience. Solarstone has crafted a progressive house gem that not only honors the genre’s roots but also pushes its boundaries through sophisticated production techniques and rich, emotive sound design. #PureGold indeed. Love iT[/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]
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