Showing posts with label 131 BPM. Show all posts
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01:46:00


CRi unveils the first volume of AMi, a new music and live concept born from friendships and connections forged on the road and in the studio.

The 7-track project brings together new collaborations with Miette Hope, Jesse Mac Cormack, and Dj Cinéma Quartier Latin, alongside the already-released tracks with Bob Moses, Harry Hayes, Nicky Elisabeth, and Romain Garcia.




The AMi NA tour, 13 dates across North America, kicks off the same day as the EP's release, opening with two sold-out shows in Quebec.

To mark the occasion, CRi has shared his AMi on iCE DJ set, filmed on a frozen lake in the Laurentians. Built around the idea of the rassemblement, a gathering of friends in an extraordinary setting, the performance was captured across multiple camera perspectives to create an immersive, dynamic viewing experience and features Romain, Jesse, Dj Cinéma Quartier Latin and Sinca.

AMi Vol. 1 is out now on Anjunadeep.

Buy/Stream 'AMi Vol. 1': https://anjunadeep.co/amivol1.oyd




Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]CRi - AMi Vol. 1 [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]CRi’s AMi Vol. 1 stands as a masterful demonstration of modern electronic production, blending emotional depth with technical precision to create a truly holistic listening experience. Each track in the collection demonstrates flawless rhythm, groove, and drive, with percussive elements layered meticulously to allow for both dance floor momentum and reflective home listening. The melodic hooks and harmonic layers emerge as vibrant, interweaving textures that resonate both sonically and emotionally, reminiscent of the detailed soundscape construction seen on prior Anjunadeep releases. Transitions, drops, and build-ups are executed with a sense of organic flow, ensuring that energy is sustained while still surprising the listener with subtle shifts in tone and intensity. This results in a smooth energy flow and momentum that makes the EP particularly effective for fitness and wellness settings, where maintaining a dynamic yet balanced auditory environment is key. The sound design and production quality across the EP are of exceptional caliber, with a careful balance between the low-end weight and airy high-frequency elements, demonstrating CRi’s deep understanding of spatial design and electronic mixing. Originality in arrangement is evident in the way vocal performances, such as those from Miette Hope and Jesse Mac Cormack, merge seamlessly with the instrumental layers, crafting moments of profound emotional resonance. Effects and spatial processing are employed with both clarity and creativity, creating a 3D listening environment that enhances immersion and mental engagement. Research in music psychology, such as the works of Thoma et al. (2013) and Särkämö et al. (2008), suggests that immersive and harmonically rich electronic music can reduce stress, elevate mood, and enhance cognitive flow, which aligns with the immediate mental health benefits listeners may experience when engaging with AMi Vol. 1. Dynamic range and loudness balance are perfectly calibrated, ensuring that the tracks feel expansive while retaining punch and clarity, even in high-energy sections. The cohesion and storytelling across the EP are reinforced by CRi’s artistic identity, which weaves a narrative of connection, nostalgia, and forward momentum. The vocal performances add lyrical weight and a sense of human intimacy, increasing the catchiness and replay value of the tracks. This balance of emotional engagement and production excellence makes the EP suitable for both club and festival settings, with intros and outros structured for easy mixing, BPM consistency for fluid set integration, and carefully designed cue points that amplify its potential for live performance. Crowd reaction potential is high, not only for energetic events but also for wellness sessions—studies have shown that rhythmic engagement in music can enhance physical performance and perceived exertion during exercise (Karageorghis & Priest, 2012). In conclusion, AMi Vol. 1 exemplifies the intersection of technical mastery and emotional artistry in electronic music. Its positive impact on mental well-being and its adaptability to fitness and mindfulness contexts reflect the growing understanding of music’s role in human health and performance. The EP’s immersive soundscapes and dynamic energy make it a valuable addition to both personal listening and professional wellness environments. #PureGold Loveit[/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:
Thoma, M. V., Ryf, S., Mohiyeddini, C., Ehlert, U., & Nater, U. M. (2013). Emotion regulation through listening to music in everyday situations. Cognition and Emotion, 27(3), 534–543.
Särkämö, T., Tervaniemi, M., & Huotilainen, M. (2008). Music and stroke recovery: The role of rhythm and melody. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 12(3), 113–119.
Karageorghis, C. I., & Priest, D. L. (2012). Music in the exercise domain: A review and synthesis (Part II). International Review of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 5(1), 67–84.


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05:16:00

 


The collaborative partnership between BLR and Amber Revival has become one of the most prolific and celebrated forces in modern trance and melodic house, culminating in a string of top-charting releases through 2025 and 2026.

BLR (Leon Bolier)

Renowned Dutch producer Leon Bolier adopted the BLR alias to explore a deeper, club-focused sound that blends hypnotic percussions with driving basslines.

Industry Rank: Ranked as the #13 producer in the world in 2025 by 1001tracklists based on the success of his diverse charting tracks.

Signature Works: Best known for hits like "Nungwi" and "Taj," and more recently, the high-profile collaboration "Bach To The Future" with Armin van Buuren.

Amber Revival

Based in Berlin, Amber Revival is a multi-platinum duo consisting of Netta Nimrodi and Arie Burshtein.

Evolution: After 20 years behind the scenes writing Billboard #1 hits for global stars, they emerged as a leading trance act in 2023.

Vocal Style: Their sound is defined by emotive, dual-vocal harmonies and sophisticated orchestral arrangements rooted in their classical training.

Major Collaborations (2025–2026)

The trio's synergy has produced several of the genre's most supported anthems:

"Love Me Endless" (2025): Voted #23 in the ASOT Top 50 of 2025, this track was hailed as a "Pure Gold" anthem on the Armind label.

"Untouchable" (2026): Their latest major single, released on February 27, 2026, through Armada Music.

"Feeling Good": A peak-time festival favorite that received a special "Podium Mix" for live performances.

"I Miss You In The Nights": A 2025 release showcasing their darker, electro-pop-infused dance sound.

Forthcoming Dates

Following their first solo DJ sets in 2025, Amber Revival and BLR are increasingly performing together at major events:

Summer 2026: Anticipated appearances at major European festivals including Luminosity Beach Festival and A State of Trance events in the Netherlands and Poland.



Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]BLR & Amber Revival - Untouchable [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]BLR & Amber Revival’s “Untouchable,” released on Armin van Buuren’s Armind imprint, demonstrates an exceptional mastery of modern proglifting trance production at 131 BPM. The track immediately captivates with its driving rhythm and perfect groove, supported by a pulsating low-end and carefully sequenced percussive elements that create a kinetic energy ideal for both club and festival environments. The track’s melodic hooks and harmonic layers unfold organically, with shimmering pads and evolving synth motifs that interplay seamlessly, exhibiting a meticulous approach to sound design and harmonic progression. Each transition, build-up, and drop is executed with surgical precision, maintaining energy flow and momentum without ever feeling forced, an indicator of top-tier arrangement skills and a deep understanding of dancefloor dynamics. Production quality is immaculate, with expertly balanced dynamic range and loudness levels that retain clarity during peak moments. Spatial design and effects work are handled with sophistication—reverbs and delays are tastefully applied to create an immersive stereo field that envelops the listener, enhancing both atmosphere and emotional resonance. The vocal performance by Amber Revival adds a heartfelt, lyrical dimension, blending seamlessly with the instrumental layers to amplify the track’s storytelling and artistic identity. This synthesis of elements ensures exceptional cohesion and a high replay value, as each listen reveals subtle nuances and production details. From a psychological and physiological perspective, “Untouchable” demonstrates why trance music has a positive impact on mental health, fitness, and overall wellness. Studies in music psychology suggest that fast-paced, harmonically rich electronic music can stimulate dopamine release, reduce perceived exertion during physical activity, and enhance mood regulation (Thompson et al., 2001; Karageorghis & Priest, 2012). The rhythmic consistency and hypnotic flow of this track make it an excellent choice for fitness sessions, wellness classes, and even meditative states where movement and music are synchronized, fostering a sense of euphoria and cognitive clarity. Scientific research also indicates that engaging with emotionally resonant music can reduce stress markers and improve emotional well-being (Koelsch, 2010), which aligns perfectly with the uplifting emotional character of “Untouchable.” The track’s club and festival suitability is undeniable, with cue points, loop potential, and BPM consistency optimized for seamless set integration. DJs can rely on its dynamic energy to sustain crowd engagement, while the gradual layering and powerful drops are capable of eliciting peak reactions from live audiences. In summary, BLR & Amber Revival deliver a flawless work of trance artistry where technical excellence, emotional depth, and health benefits converge, making “Untouchable” not only a dancefloor weapon but a track with measurable positive effects on the human mind and body. #PureGold Loveit [/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:
Thompson, W. F., Schellenberg, E. G., & Husain, G. (2001). Arousal, mood, and the Mozart effect. Psychological Science, 12(3), 248–251.
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.
Koelsch, S. (2010). Towards a neural basis of music-evoked emotions. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 14(3), 131–137.




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07:14:00

 



Acclaimed producer Andy Duguid makes a highly anticipated return to his spiritual home at Magik Muzik, this time alongside the hauntingly soulful Chelsea Holland. Their new single, “Rescue Me,” is out now and promises to captivate fans with its unique blend of melodic sophistication and mainstage-ready energy.

“Rescue Me” delivers a driving bassline that hits straight to the chest, perfectly layered under Chelsea Holland’s ethereal vocal performance. The track embodies that “eyes closed, hands up” feeling—ideal for both euphoric peak-time moments and seamless transition sets.

Chelsea Holland, who first captivated the trance world in 2019 with her debut and subsequent introduction by Andy Duguid, has since become a sought-after voice in the scene. Their creative chemistry has sparked collaborations including “Dreamers” and “You And I,” the latter a highlight from Andy’s upcoming artist album. With “Rescue Me,” the duo explores an experimental side of progressive house, fusing chilled atmospheric elements with high-energy breaks to deliver an unforgettable listening experience.






Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Andy Duguid and Chelsea Holland - Rescue Me[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Andy Duguid and Chelsea Holland’s “Rescue Me” is a masterfully produced progressive trance track that exemplifies the seamless integration of melody, rhythm, and technical prowess. From the opening moments, the track commands attention with its driving bassline and precise BPM of 131, offering DJs perfect consistency for sync and transition in live sets. The rhythmic groove is both propulsive and fluid, allowing the listener to be carried effortlessly from one section to the next. The dynamic interplay of percussion and sub-bass provides a solid foundation for the track’s soaring melodic layers, which interlock harmonically to create an immersive and emotionally resonant soundscape. The production techniques on “Rescue Me” are exemplary, showcasing meticulous attention to sound design and spatial effects. Andy Duguid’s use of reverb and delay enriches the stereo field, giving Chelsea Holland’s ethereal vocals a floating, cinematic quality. The build-ups and transitions are handled with precision, utilizing filter sweeps, risers, and subtle automation to create moments of tension and release that feel both organic and exhilarating. This level of technical detail not only maximizes energy flow and momentum on the dancefloor but also demonstrates a high degree of creative artistry and originality in arrangement. The drops land with full impact yet retain clarity, maintaining a balanced dynamic range that preserves emotional nuance while achieving festival-ready loudness. The track’s atmosphere is deeply immersive, amplifying its capacity to resonate emotionally with listeners. Chelsea Holland’s vocal performance is hauntingly beautiful, delivering lyrical content that invokes themes of connection and upliftment, which research suggests can engage the brain’s reward pathways and enhance mood (Salimpoor et al., 2011). The harmonic richness and emotionally charged storytelling of “Rescue Me” make it a natural fit for wellness contexts, such as yoga flow sessions or mental health music therapy, where studies have shown that melodic and rhythmic entrainment can reduce anxiety and promote physiological relaxation (Thoma et al., 2013). Furthermore, the track’s steady tempo and energetic yet euphoric progression make it ideal for fitness classes, leveraging the documented benefits of music with consistent beats per minute for improving exercise performance and perceived endurance (Karageorghis & Priest, 2012). From a DJ and club utility perspective, “Rescue Me” excels in every criterion. Its intro and outro structures provide easy cue points and looping potential, ensuring smooth and professional set integration. The cohesion between sections creates a compelling emotional narrative, allowing for peak-time euphoria while maintaining replay value. The combination of superior production quality, artistic identity, and crowd impact positions this track as a mainstage weapon as well as a deeply personal listening experience. Ultimately, “Rescue Me” stands as a testament to how technically refined and emotionally resonant electronic music can contribute positively to both individual well-being and collective celebration.  #PureGold Loveit [/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
Salimpoor, V. N., Benovoy, M., Larcher, K., Dagher, A., & Zatorre, R. J. (2011). Anatomically distinct dopamine release during anticipation and experience of peak emotion to music. Nature Neuroscience, 14(2), 257–262.
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.
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.




About Andy Duguid  
Andy Duguid is an internationally recognized producer, DJ, and composer, known for his melodic and emotionally resonant approach to electronic music. His releases on Magik Muzik have earned him a loyal global following.

About Chelsea Holland  
Chelsea Holland is an emerging vocalist in the electronic music scene, celebrated for her soulful and atmospheric performances that have quickly made her a favorite among trance and progressive house fans.


Additional info:

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05:11:00

 


Tomorrowland Music proudly presents a sparkling, feel-good rework that turns nostalgia into pure bounce.

Italian producer Albi and Swedish‑English artist Lilly Ahlberg team up for “Sitting Down Here”, a bright and playful remake of Lene Marlin’s beloved ’90s hit. Released today via Tomorrowland Music, in partnership with Virgin Germany and Republic Records (US), the release arrives with bright energy, a modern dance-pop pulse, and the unmistakable hook that made the original track a European favorite.


A timeless song reimagined in catchy dance track

​Albi turns “Sitting Down Here” from a quiet ’90s confessional into a dance-pop rush full of sunshine, bounce, and singalong energy. In his rework, Lilly Ahlberg steps into the spotlight with fresh, crystal-clear vocals that playfully echo the song’s storytelling charm. Around her voice, Albi builds the ultimate dance foundation, packing the track with:

Bouncy keyboard hooks

An up-tempo rhythm that practically jumps

A melodic topline that glides effortlessly over the beat

The soul of the song stays intact, but everything around it gets a colourful, confident makeover. It’s retro charm, only turbocharged.



Nostalgia meets social media

​“Sitting Down Here” has been bubbling back into the music scene in recent weeks, as Gen Z stumbles upon ALBI’s remix and gives the song a whole new life online. Thousands of TikTok creators have already jumped on the sound, proving that the melody only needs a few seconds to lodge itself firmly in your head.




About ALBI

​Italian DJ and producer ALBI is a genuine global phenomenon, seamlessly combining viral social traction with certified international chart success.

In just a few months, Albi has grown into one of the most promising rising names in the UK-influenced dance scene. With over 85k+ followers and more than 3 Mln likes on TikTok, alongside gaining 10k new followers on Instagram in the last month alone, his charismatic productions and distinctive UKG-inspired sound have allowed him to rapidly build a strong global fanbase.

His breakout single “If You Let Me” with star Sinéad Harnett surpassed 6M+ streams across platforms, charting Top 10 on Viral Charts in the UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand, Austria, and Switzerland. The track received major editorial support, including Spotify’s Dance XL.

On social media, Albi continues to generate momentum: viral releases like “NO THANK YOU” and “Ghost” surpassed 10k video uses in less than two weeks, proving his ability to consistently capture attention across the US, UK, and Australia.

His music has also gained strong industry support, including placement in Tiësto’s closing set at Veld Festival in Toronto, as well as widespread DJ and platform recognition across the global dance community.

In 2025, Albi joins forces with GRAMMY-winning, diamond-certified artist Daya for “Good Boys (Hide Away)”. Released worldwide, the track exploded instantly, surpassing 3.5 million streams in just one month and a half and generating over 500,000 TikTok posts using the official sound, making it one of the most viral dance songs of 2025 on the platform. Blending Daya’s iconic vocal with Albi’s fresh UK / US production twist, the record firmly positions him among the most exciting new producers in the international dance space.




About Lilly Ahlberg

​Lilly Ahlberg is a Swedish-English singer-songwriter whose music lives at the intersection of emotional songwriting and high-energy dance. After spending the last few years collaborating extensively within the electronic and dance space, she’s now stepping into a new chapter with solo music that finally feels fully her own.

Her upcoming releases blend high-BPM, euphoric dance production with dreamy, introspective textures- music designed to move you both physically and emotionally. Rooted in personal growth, heartbreak, and self-realisation, her new EP traces the end of a relationship and the clarity that followed, balancing vulnerability with release.

Growing up on acoustic indie folk artists like Bon Iver, Ben Howard, and Damien Rice, Lilly brings a songwriter’s sensibility to electronic music, where melody and feeling always lead. The result is a sound that feels honest, cinematic, and quietly powerful- equally at home on the dancefloor and in headphones.


About Tomorrowland Music

Tomorrowland Music is Tomorrowland’s official in-house record label and dedicated music division, founded in August 2021 and working in partnerships with Virgin Music/Universal Music Group. Tomorrowland Music provides a home for artists from all different levels in electronic music and works closely together with artists to help create strong stories around their releases and perform them at different festivals, supporting them in all their recording and release activities and aiming to introduce music fans in every corner of the world to the most exciting projects in electronic music.

Discover all releases right here.
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23:52:00

 


Featured on In Search of Sunrise 21 - Mix 2: Nirvana, mixed by Markus Schulz, Mike EFEX unveils The Unseen Path; a dark, immersive ride that blurs the line between trance and techno. Pulsing basslines and sweeping atmospheres guide the listener through waves of tension and release, capturing that signature Coldharbour mood built for the late-night floors. A hypnotic anthem for those who find beauty in the unknown.





Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]Mike Efex - The Unseen Path[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Mike EFEX’s “The Unseen Path” is a masterclass in dark, driving trance that effortlessly blends elements of techno with the signature Coldharbour sound. Featured on In Search of Sunrise 21 – Mix 2: Nirvana, mixed by Markus Schulz, the track takes listeners on an immersive journey that thrives on tension and release. Built on a foundation of pulsing 131 BPM basslines, the production crafts a hypnotic late-night floor atmosphere. Its groove is anchored by a tight rhythmic structure, where percussive elements interlock seamlessly to create a relentless forward momentum that invites both emotional engagement and dance floor movement. The sound design is a standout feature, with deep, rolling low-end layers supporting a spectrum of sweeping atmospheric textures. Subtle use of stereo imaging and spatial effects allows elements to evolve dynamically across the stereo field, creating the sensation of movement through an endless sonic corridor. Harmonic layers are meticulously crafted—pads and subtle melodic motifs weave in and out, providing contrast to the raw, moody undercurrent. Each transition, drop, and build-up is engineered with precision, employing techniques like filtered sweeps, risers, and carefully automated reverbs to heighten drama without ever feeling overproduced. Production quality here is exceptional. The track maintains clear dynamic range, balancing loudness with depth to avoid the flatness that can plague club tracks. Its use of EQ carving and sidechain compression allows every element to breathe, ensuring that basslines punch without masking the intricate high-frequency details. Originality in the arrangement shines through in the way sections develop organically, shifting energy levels in a manner that feels both intentional and instinctive. The track’s structure caters perfectly to DJs, with intelligently designed intros and outros for seamless mixing, BPM stability for sync ease, and multiple cue points ideal for looping and layering in a live set. What ultimately makes The Unseen Path so compelling is its emotional resonance. Though it is a dark and moody trancer, it carries a sense of narrative—a journey through shadows toward discovery—that engages listeners on a deeper level. Its cohesion and storytelling reflect a clear artistic identity, staying true to Coldharbour’s legacy while showcasing Mike EFEX’s unique voice. Whether experienced in a festival setting or an intimate club, the track’s energy and hypnotic pull guarantee strong crowd reactions while inviting repeated listens for those who appreciate the nuances of its production. In every technical and creative respect, this is a track that embodies #PureGold.#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]





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04:15:00

 



Out now on Anjunabeats: ilan Bluestone, ALPHA 9 & H.E.A.R.T.S. ‘Paradise’.

It’s the honesty in both his music and personality that has made ilan Bluestone a staple in the dance and trance world for over a decade.

As an Anjunabeats stalwart, the early ‘Anthem Test’ Instagram previews of his late-night writing sessions forged an instant connection with his audience years ahead of it becoming common practice on social media platforms. He provided the audience with insight into what it’s like to be a musician, producer, and DJ in the 2010s — a sentiment echoed in his high-energy, euphoric, and melodic music that has taken him to the stages of Madison Square Garden, Tomorrowland, Creamfields, and EDC.

His albums are the clearest window into his current headspace as a musician. 2018’s ‘Scars’ is a love letter to the inspirations that had informed and imprinted his early musical journey. 2021’s ‘Impulse’, a thoroughly ‘Tronce’ coming of age LP embracing the high energy club side of life post pandemic.

Completing a trilogy of ‘heart on sleeve’ LPs is ‘Ignite’, the story of an artist reigniting his creative fires after burnout in 2023.
“Touring ‘Impulse’ after the pandemic was amazing” ilan shares. “But by November 2023, I’d played 70 shows in just over a year. The constant travel took its toll, and I had to come off the road to recharge by being in the studio again, explore new sounds, and work with fresh collaborators.”

Ignite is ilan’s most eclectic project yet: 15 tracks spanning 80s synthwave, cinematic ballads, melodic progressive house and new-age electronica, all grounded by the uplifting trance that defines his live sets.
“There are darker moments on there, but ultimately ‘Ignite’ is about the emotions and experiences that spark us into life. Writing these records felt like a weight coming off my shoulders and I’m hoping they inspire others to tackle and overcome their challenges in life”.
Bluestone’s love for string orchestration shines through the album, including the opening track ‘40’ with composer Jasper Blunk. The title track and first single, ‘Ignite’, is an electrifying blend of hypnotic melodies, soaring vocals, and explosive drops. It partners ilan with two artists who have been heavily involved in his story so far: Maor Levi and Giuseppe De Luca, marking the first time the three have collaborated on a record. Leeds-based writer and singer Giuseppe features more across the album, as well as on records with longtime contributors EL Waves, Gid Sedgwick and Ellen Smith. The album also introduces several new voices to ilan’s story.

ilan Bluestone’s Ignite arrives on Anjunabeats this August and is available to pre-order now on vinyl via the Anjuna Music Store. Having released the title track, featuring Maor Levi and Giuseppe De Luca, earlier in July, ilan now teams up with longtime friend and fellow progressive trance aficionado ALPHA 9.

Over the years, ilan Bluestone & ALPHA 9 have contributed numerous hits to the Anjunabeats catalogue, but have rarely collaborated officially. That finally changes with the arrival of ‘Paradise’ featuring the beautiful vocals of ‘H.E.A.R.T.S’. A true progressive trance anthem that mirrors the styles that put both producers on the map and offers further insight to ilan’s highly anticipated upcoming third album.

Check out the Ignite tour dates here: ilanbluestone.com/tour


Release Date: 22 July 2025




Dimitris Kechagias Review:
[review top="1"]
[item value="10"]ilan Bluestone, ALPHA 9 & H.E.A.R.T.S. - Paradise [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Over the years, ilan Bluestone & ALPHA 9 have each carved out impressive careers within the Anjunabeats catalogue, contributing numerous hits that have resonated with trance enthusiasts worldwide. Despite their individual successes, collaborations between these two maestros have been rare—until now. Their latest joint creation, "Paradise," featuring the ethereal vocals of H.E.A.R.T.S, marks a significant milestone, blending their signature sounds into a true progressive trance anthem that not only pays homage to their roots but also offers tantalizing insights into ilan’s highly anticipated third album. "Paradise" operates at an energetic 131 BPM, characteristic of anthemic progressive trance tracks that dominate both festival stages and intimate club settings. The production kicks off with pulsating basslines meticulously crafted to provide a solid foundation, enhanced by precision-engineered thumping kicks that cut through the mix with clarity and power. The pounding drums, layered with intricate percussive elements, create a dynamic rhythmic structure that drives the track’s momentum. A standout feature of "Paradise" is its superbly executed long breakdown. Here, the producers showcase a masterful use of classical orchestral strings, carefully arranged to evoke a cinematic atmosphere. The strings are layered with lush pads and subtle harmonic progressions, creating an expansive soundscape that allows H.E.A.R.T.S' exceptional, mesmerizing vocals to take center stage. The vocal production is equally meticulous, with delicate reverb and delay effects adding depth and a haunting resonance, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics. The track’s build-up is a testament to the producers' adeptness at tension and release. Utilizing rising synth arpeggios, filtered sweeps, and white noise risers, they generate anticipation without overwhelming the listener. This nuanced approach ensures that when the climax hits, it feels both satisfying and exhilarating. The climax itself is a masterclass in mainstage-friendly production. Epic, layered synths—rich in harmonics and processed with precise EQ and stereo widening techniques—create a wall of sound that’s both powerful and immersive. The use of sidechain compression ensures that the kick drum maintains its punch, cutting through the dense mix with surgical precision. The final crescendo is driven by these big, epic synths, perfectly balanced to maintain energy while allowing each element its space within the mix. "Paradise" is more than just a track; it’s an auditory journey that showcases the technical prowess and artistic vision of ilan Bluestone & ALPHA 9. Their meticulous attention to production details—from sound design to arrangement—ensures that "Paradise" is not only #PureGold but also a benchmark in contemporary progressive trance. 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]
[/review]




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