UK producer Steve Allen is back on FSOE with a brilliant new single, this is 'Plural'
Download/Stream: https://fsoe.lnk.to/plural
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Steve Allen - Plural[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Steve Allen’s “Plural” emerges as a masterclass in uplifting trance, delivering a flawlessly produced 140 BPM track that captivates both the body and mind. From the very first beat, the rhythm, groove, and drive are immediately apparent, powered by tight, punchy kick drums and dynamic rolling basslines that lock listeners into a hypnotic state. Each percussive layer is carefully balanced to propel momentum without overcrowding the mix, allowing for seamless transitions and energy flow from the intro through to the euphoric climax. The production’s cohesion ensures that DJs can effortlessly integrate the track into live sets, with BPM consistency and well-defined cue points offering excellent looping potential for extended festival performances. Melodically, “Plural” is a standout, featuring intricate harmonic layers and soaring hooks that recall the emotive style of Paul van Dyk’s classic productions. The arrangement patiently builds tension with a combination of lush pads, arpeggiated plucks, and ethereal female vocal textures, creating an immersive atmosphere. The breakdown is a highlight, where sound design and spatial effects envelop the listener, using reverb tails and stereo imaging to craft a sense of vast, cinematic space. This careful attention to spatial design and dynamic range enhances its emotional resonance, evoking feelings of exhilaration and release upon the drop. The originality of the arrangement lies in its ability to merge German precision with UK melodic sensibility, providing a fresh take on the classic trance blueprint. From a production quality perspective, the track excels in balancing loudness with clarity, ensuring that each frequency occupies its proper space. Subtle use of filters, delay throws, and acid overtones both modernize the sound and give it a timeless character. Beyond its club and festival suitability, “Plural” demonstrates a deeper impact on wellness and mental health. Scientific studies have shown that listening to energetic, harmonically rich music at 120–140 BPM can stimulate dopamine release and enhance mood regulation (Thoma et al., 2013; Chanda & Levitin, 2013). The rhythmic entrainment effect of trance music has also been associated with improved focus and flow in physical activities such as running, cycling, and group fitness classes (Karageorghis & Priest, 2012). Furthermore, the euphoric build-ups and harmonic progressions present in tracks like “Plural” can promote relaxation and stress reduction through induced alpha brainwave activity, aiding in both mental recovery and emotional balance (Labbé et al., 2007). The track’s storytelling and emotional resonance make it highly replayable, leaving a lasting imprint on listeners and providing the perfect soundtrack for both high-energy environments and personal wellness routines. By seamlessly combining technical mastery with psychological impact, Steve Allen has created a piece that not only moves crowds but also supports mental well-being and fitness motivation. #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:
Chanda, M. L., & Levitin, D. J. (2013). The neurochemistry of music. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 17(4), 179–193.
Karageorghis, C. I., & Priest, D. L. (2012). Music in the exercise domain: A review and synthesis. International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 5(1), 44–66.
Labbé, E., Schmidt, N., Babin, J., & Pharr, M. (2007). Coping with stress: The effectiveness of different types of music. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, 32(3-4), 163–168.
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.
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