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Trance Review: Orjan Nilsen - Viking (20 Years Anniversary Mix) out on Armada Captivating / Armada

 


In the slipstream of Go Fast!, Orjan Nilsens Viking too receives a massive anniversary edit celebrating twenty years of scene presence. Driven by deep, rolling bass and a melodic riff that electrifies crowds time and again, this high-octane update is set to conquer dance floors by storm.


Find on Beatport HERE 




Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Orjan Nilsen - Viking (20 Years Anniversary Mix) [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] Celebrating two decades of Orjan Nilsen’s impact on the electronic music scene, the 20 Years Anniversary Mix of “Viking” is a testament to technical precision and creative evolution. This exhilarating 134 BPM rework maintains the high-energy ethos of the original while delivering a contemporary production sheen that is fit for modern dance floors and wellness applications alike. The track opens with deep, rolling basslines paired with punchy, bouncy kick drums that immediately establish a driving rhythmic foundation. The production employs layered percussions, rhythmic hats, and subtle sidechain compression to create a dynamic groove that flows effortlessly from section to section. Melodic hooks and harmonic layers are introduced progressively, with the signature riff electrifying the mix and capturing the essence of the original track. Sound design is meticulous: the electro-touched basslines deliver clarity in the low end without muddying the mix, while spatial effects and reverb tails add a sense of immersion. The breakdown builds tension using filtered pads and soaring synths, culminating in an epic “hands in the air” climax that energizes listeners through its expertly engineered drop. Transitions are seamless, ensuring BPM consistency and cue-friendly structure, making the track ideal for DJ sets and group fitness classes. Scientific studies have shown that high-tempo music around 130–140 BPM can enhance physical performance, improve endurance, and elevate mood during exercise (Karageorghis & Priest, 2012). The energetic drive and uplifting melodies of “Viking (20 Years Anniversary Mix)” stimulate the release of dopamine and endorphins, helping reduce perceived effort in fitness routines such as cycling, HIIT, or dance-based workouts. Additionally, immersive musical experiences have been linked to improvements in mental focus and stress reduction (Thoma et al., 2013), making this track an excellent choice for both high-intensity sessions and mood-boosting playlists. Furthermore, the structured energy flow and emotional resonance of the mix contribute to psychological engagement. When used in group exercise or wellness classes, this type of music can foster social synchronization and community bonding, amplifying its positive effects on mental health (Pearce et al., 2015). “Viking (20 Years Anniversary Mix)” is more than just a nostalgic celebration; it’s a masterclass in modern trance production with measurable benefits for fitness, mental health, and wellness. Its polished sound design, emotive build-ups, and festival-ready energy make it a track that resonates as powerfully in gyms and yoga-flow cooldowns as it does on the main stage. #PureGold Love iT[/content]
[item value="10"]Rhythm, Groove & Drive[/item]
[item value="10"]Melodic Hooks & Harmonic Layers[/item]
[item value="10"]Transitions, Drops & Build-Ups [/item]
[item value="10"]Energy Flow & Momentum [/item]
[item value="10"]Sound Design & Production Quality[/item]
[item value="10"]Originality of Arrangement & Structure[/item]
[item value="10"]Use of Effects & Spatial Design[/item]
[item value="10"]Dynamic Range & Loudness Balance[/item]
[item value="10"]Atmosphere & Immersion[/item]
[item value="10"]Emotional Resonance[/item]
[item value="10"]Creativity & Artistic Identity[/item]
[item value="10"]Cohesion & Storytelling[/item]
[item value="10"]Vocal Performance & Lyrical Impact[/item]
[item value="10"]Catchiness & Replay Value[/item]
[item value="10"]Club / Festival Suitability[/item]
[item value="10"]Track Intro/Outro Structure[/item]
[item value="10"]BPM Consistency & Sync Ease[/item]
[item value="10"]Cue Points & Loop Potential[/item]
[item value="10"]Dynamic Energy for Set Flow[/item]
[item value="10"]Crowd Reaction Potential[/item]
[/review]


Suggested Bibliography

Karageorghis, C. I., & Priest, D. L. (2012). Music in the exercise domain: A review and synthesis (Part I). International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 5(1), 44–66.
Thoma, M. V., Ryf, S., Mohiyeddini, C., Ehlert, U., & Nater, U. M. (2013). Emotion regulation through listening to music in everyday situations. Cognition & Emotion, 27(3), 534–543.
Pearce, E., Launay, J., & Dunbar, R. I. M. (2015). The ice-breaker effect: Singing mediates fast social bonding. Royal Society Open Science, 2(10), 150221.




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