"Under Your Ocean" by Ghost Etiquette, Memory Loss, and Aza Nabuko is a captivating progressive trance track that dives into moody, emotional depths. The atmospheric production, anchored by hypnotic grooves and ethereal textures, perfectly complements Aza’s hauntingly beautiful vocals. Together, this Canadian powerhouse collaboration delivers a poignant and immersive sonic journey that lingers long after the final note.
Dimitris Kechagias Review: [review top="1"] [item value="10"]Ghost Etiquette & Memory Loss feat. Aza Nabuko - Under Your Ocean[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Ghost Etiquette and Memory Loss have collaborated on the captivating dark melodic progressive trance masterpiece, “Under Your Ocean.” Featuring the mesmerizing vocals of Aza Nabuko, the track boasts a 128-beat proglifting trance rhythm, complemented by pulsating basslines, punchy kicks, thumping drums, and evocative dystopian synths. The atmospheric soundscapes and techno influences create a spellbinding experience, culminating in a grand finale with the addition of orchestral strings and cool vocal lines. “Under Your Ocean” stands as a distinctive and unforgettable track, deserving of widespread recognition. The package also includes a Dub mix. #PureGold 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]
"Feel It" by Spencer Newell, featuring Lokka Vox, is a vibrant trance anthem that radiates pure energy. Anchored by a rolling bassline and simple plucked melodies, the track strikes a perfect balance between power and uplifting elegance. Lokka’s unmistakable vocals shine with emotional clarity, elevating the song into an unforgettable experience filled with passion and euphoria.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Spencer Newell has consistently delivered high-quality releases on esteemed labels. His latest euphoric uplifting trance masterpiece, titled “Feel It,” features Lokka Vox on vocal duties. The track boasts a 132 BPM tempo, characterized by pulsating energetic basslines, thumping drums, punchy kicks, and vibrant euphoric synths that guide listeners through a dreamy breakdown. Lukka Vox’s heartfelt vocals add a touch of emotion to the track.The breakdown features a warm and optimistic synthy melody that builds tension before the grand drumrolls create anticipation for the uplifting climax. The climax is filled with sun-kissed synths and a driving foundation, making it ideal for singing, dancing, or incorporating into daily gym routines. Spencer Newell once again demonstrates his mastery of production, crafting a memorable and enjoyable track. #PureGold 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]
Label bosses reunite once again for AVA's landmark releases and for the 450th release, Andy Moor and Somna team up with vocalist Ava Silver for "Alchemy". Uniquely crafted bass rhythms set the tone for what's to come with its high energy groove while beautiful elements litter the canvas. Ava's gorgeous vocal shines bright with its smooth and sultry delivery before the package stuns with a soul grabbing main melody. Truly something special once again from the seasoned producers.
Dimitri Kechagias review: [review top="1"] [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"]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] [item value="10"] Andy Moor, Somna & Ava Silver - Alchemy[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Andy Moor and Somna collaborate with Ava Silver for the exceptional track Alchemy. Superb pulsating driving pulsating basslines, thumping cracking drums, punchy groovy percussion and excellent synthy chords while on top the so sweet and magical vocals and emotionally touching lyrics shine and will make many eyes water with tears thats for sure. The main melody in the breakdown has definitely that romantic nostalgic early trance sound that is so euphoric and melancholic at the same time and easily crawl under your skin touching your inner strings of life. The climax drives the track full on and hands in the air for the perfect floating adventure where melodies, grooves and vocals become one to create another trance classic to leave with us eternally. #PureGold Love IT[/content]
The wait for Somna’ upcoming artist album is drawing to a close with the release of Light Your Darkness. For this piece of upbeat vocal music he teamed up with Sean Ryan and Michele C. Exciting!
Dimitri Kechagias review: [review top="1"] [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"]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] [item value="10"]Somna, Sean Ryan & Michele C - Light Your Darkness [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Somna teams up with Sean Ryan & Michele C for the outstanding Light Your Darkness. Pulsating basslines, thumping kicks, chunky electro grooves and massive synthy hooks merged beautifully with Sean Ryan dynamic and truly inspiring performance along with the more sensitive and touching Michele C. Its one of those tracks that will win your attention not only because of its exceptional melodies and magical floating sounds but also of the very deep and meaningful lyrics that will speak straight to your heart and offer you the optimism and courage to carry on and fight for your life despite of all the difficulties and struggles. Expect some tears to slowly drop as you enjoy this top record. Congrats to Somna who seems that deliver one of the most accomplished albums of the year! #PureGold Love IT [/content]
Huge collaboration from NASH and Sean Truby as they land on AVA with "Esoteric". Brilliantly produced with catchy melodies and high energy low ends, this is peak time trance energy.
Dimitri Kechagias review: [review top="1"] [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"]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] [item value="10"]NASH & Sean Truby - Esoteric[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]NASH & Sean Truby are collaborating for the instantly feel good proglifting beauty Esoteric. The track combines punchy basslines, pounding kicks, thumping beats and positive colorful synthy melodies to uplift your heart and mind instantly. Playful with big room influences ready to rock mainstages without trying excessively. Atmospheric long breakdown with opera style voices, cinematic atmosphere, gated trancy voices and the release of the big euphoric synthy theme leading to the fast and furious drum rolls that tease the audience until the beat drops to drive the dancefloor towards the heavenly crescendo moment that will be super hard to stand still when you will meet this beauty on your favourite clubfloor! #PureGold Love iT[/content]
The project Exouler is represented by two Russian producers Sergey Morozov and Victor Lavrinaytis. They were releasing tracks as The Cloudy Day on various labels by getting the support of the best trance producers like Armin Van Buuren, Aly & Fila, Solarstone, Ferry Corsten, Paul van Dyk and many others. In 2017 they continued with the project Exouler which had new sound and new ideas and many tracks signed on various labels including Monster Tunes, Black Hole recordings and more. Currently Sergey Morozov continues the Exouler project on his own.
Dimitris: Your biggest music career achievements in 2019: Exouler: Release my track on FSOE, Armada and also my track 'Maria' which I dedicated to my newborn daughter!
Dimitris: Please rate your online presence/visibility in 2019 from 0-10? Exouler: 6, because I devote a lot of time to my daughter :)
1) Best of 2019 personal productions with short comment about them: Exouler: I think that my collab. track with Miroslav Vrlik 'Healing' which was released on Armada, and also my track 'Maria' which is special to me!
2) Best Artist in 2019(DJ & producer) with short comment: Exouler: Allen Watts, I think, he did a good job this year.
3) Best Remix(es) from other fellow artists in 2019 with short comment : Exouler: Fabio XB & Liuck Feat. Christina Novelli - Back To You (Eugenio Tokarev Remix)
This is the best remix I heard this year!!!
4) Best Remixer(s) for 2019 with short comment: Exouler: Photographer - He made great remixes :)
5) Best New Talent in 2019 (DJ or producer) with short comment : Exouler: Ahaaa :)) Hard to say!
6) Best electronic dance music album in 2019 with short comment: Exouler: Certainly is Aly & Fila with 'It’s All About The Melody'
7) Best electronic dance music compilation in 2019 with short comment? : Exouler: Future Sound of Egypt 600 - Sands of Time, great tracks compiled!
8) Best artwork about single / album/compilation or promotional campaign in 2019 with short comment: Exouler: Aly & Fila 'The Walk', I think this is the best track this year :)
9) Best electronic dance music label for 2019 with short comment: Exouler: I always considered that FSOE one of the best labels.
10) Best online social media for 2019 with short comment: Exouler: Facebook :) everything happens here!
11) Best music composition software in 2019 with short comment: Exouler: FL, I work in this daw :)
12) Best radio show/podcast or Vlog(video blog) in 2019 with short comment. It can be yours or from other artists you respect: Exouler: Future Sound Of Egypt
13) Best music related website in 2019 with short comment: Exouler: https://www.astateoftrance.com/?home=1, Ahahaaa, I don’t know why I indicated it :)
14) Best production or DJ equipment (a)software & (b) hardware) in 2019 with short comment: Exouler: Pioneer Cdj-2000 nxs2
15) Best sound sample that has been used frequently in electronic dance music tracks in 2019 (personal or from other artists): Exouler: No specific, there were a lot of good
16) Best piece of personal or music bussiness advice you got in relation to your career in 2019 and has helped you to progress even further: Exouler: 'Continue releasing your tracks on Armada'
17) Best hobby or creative activity except music production in 2019: Exouler: My job - I'm a football coach :)
Dimitris: Do you have any concrete plans for 2020 regarding future releases, tracks, albums, collaborations, DJ gigs? Please provide us the juicy details. Exouler: Possible performance at one trance festival, but it will be decided later. And also wait for the release on FSOE of my new track with my good friend Eugenio Tokarev.
Dimitris: Your message & wishes for 2020. Exouler: Have health and do what you love :)
Alex Wright is a UK-based Producer / DJ signed to Black Hole, Enhanced Music, and FSOE Recordings. With many years of experimentation and hard work, Alex Wright's melodic, uplifting sound is coming into its own. Varied tempos and styles allow Alex's work to appeal to many different audiences and tastes, whilst keeping true to the ethos of good groove and detailed melodic sensibility. DJs such as Aly & Fila, Armin van Buuren, Dan Stone, and Ferry Tayle have picked up on his work, playing his tracks on their own radio shows and at gigs around the globe. Alex sets to take his sound on the road during the coming years to expand his listening audience and enhance his ever-developing craft. The best way to hear Alex's selection of high quality progressive and uplifting Trance is to listen in to the bi-weekly Trance Encounters podcast live from 20:00-21:00 GMT on the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month on 1Mix Radio and at www.facebook.com/alexwrightmusic.
Dimitri: Can you mention your biggest music career achievements in 2018?
Alex Wright: 2018 has been by far my most rewarding year yet as both a producer and DJ. Being asked to play at Luminosity Beach Festival was my biggest achievement, as well as playing my first 2.5 hour headline set for the UK Trance Society at their Aurora event in Cargo, Shoreditch. Just recently I got my track Sueño featured on Disc 1 of Pure Trance Vol. 7 mixed by Kristina Sky, and I also stepped foot on to FSOE Parallels and Clandestine this year with productions in the more melodic, progressive, and driving, techy sounds.
Dimitri: Can you rate 2018 for you as a year with 1 being very bad until 10 that is perfect year!
Alex Wright: 9 excellent year! I had more time than ever to develop my sound and try new things, giving myself the inspiration to think outside the box and push myself as an artist. I’ve had the luck of playing some excellent gigs away from my hometown and was treated professionally by these promoters, particularly at Luminosity Beach Festival which was an amazing experience and summer weekend away!
1) Best 3 Tracks from other artists in 2018, please give us a short comment for each track:
Will Atkinson - Seventh Heaven. After hearing this track being played twice at our last Cuckoo event in Nottingham where we had Dan Stone headlining, I was mesmerised by how dynamic and full of life this track is. From the tight, offbeat groove to the nostalgic, over-defined synth ostinatos in the intro section and the breathtaking, melodic breakdown, this track is it all. It’s full of pace, drive, euphoria, and musical creativity.
EverLight - Microgravity. I remember hearing about many big names playing this track at some of the best events before it’s release and when I received the promo for it, I understood why instantly because of its nailed-down, techy groove and contrasting floaty, melodic parts. It sounded huge on the sound system at Anomaly’s 2nd Birthday and I even had the privilege of being asked by Matt to remix this, which you should hear in both of our upcoming sets in the future.
Stoneface & Terminal - Berlin 2000. As soon as I heard this, I fell in love with its otherworldly breakdown and moody atmosphere. The tribal, percussive groove is bang on and the buildup is absolutely killer on a knowledgeable dancefloor. (I had the joy of finding this out when playing it in my headline set at Aurora last weekend).
2) Your 3 Best of 2018 personal productions, give us more background info about them:
Sueño[Pure Trance]: As I mentioned previously, this track was picked up by Rich and even featured on Disc 1 of Pure Trance Vol. 7. I feel extremely happy with the selection of samples I used to create the groove and mood of this piece, which felt to me like a cross somewhere between a dreamy, Latin-flavoured dancefloor journey and classic, Balearic Techno / House / Trance.
Aswan: When I found out that Monoverse was starting FSOE Parallels, I was intrigued to find out what direction this label would take sound-wise. After hearing the first few releases, I was instantly hooked by the warm, melodic, progressive sound of tracks like Pablo Artigas - Daybreak and Alan James - Empathy which reminded me of when I first discovered Anjunadeep in the late 00’s. I took inspiration from this to write Aswan, which has a catchy melody and great supporting melodies that I’m very satisfied with.
Mnemba: The reactions I’ve received to this track both online and right before my eyes at gigs has shown me how effective this is on inducing euphoria. During promo it got aired on ASOT where Armin himself described it as a “hidden gem” and other DJs such as Aly & Fila, Ferry Corsten, Kyau & Albert, and countless others played it, including Passion resident Marc West who played it to a packed main room after Paul Van Dyk’s headline set.
3) Best Artist in 2018(DJ & producer):
Alex Wright: Stoneface & Terminal because they’ve been around for decades and still do their own thing, keeping it fresh and exciting for everyone who follows them. I’m so excited to hear their album ‘Altered Floors’ properly!
4) Best Remix in 2018, please explain why you liked it so much:
Alex Wright: Lostly - Colourways (Outer Pulse Remix). I heard both mixes in the promo email which was nice as it’s not common to receive remixes together in a release package with the original on the more established labels nowadays. While the original was good, I was captivated by the bendy, electro-tinged bassline and glitchy, trippy breakdown of the remix by these geniuses from South America. Music like this really stands out to me from the more typical sound that many other people prefer.
5) Best Remix that you have produced in 2018, please tell us why you believe is your best work?
Alex Wright: Cosmaks & Armedio - Alternative Lights (Alex Wright Remix): Along with my remix of Marfen - Marbella which I also made for Midnight Aurora this year, this remix is my favourite in terms of how all of the elements fell together sound-wise when working with the MIDI parts I was given. Both are really expressive and chilled out, which will hopefully work as great opening material for a progressive set in the future.
Fast and furious uplifting grooves from XiJaro & Pitch as they make their AVA debut with “Amor Vincit Omnia”. A track brimming with power, the duo elevates with top quality sound design and catchy hooks!
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/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]
[item value="10"]XiJaro & Pitch - Amor Vincit Omnia [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]When it comes to uplifting trance XiJaro & Pitch is definitely the duo that can make the difference. Their newest born track Amor Vincit Omnia is absolutely wonderfully executed formulaic uplifting orchestral trance with tough metallic basslines, thumping grooves, punchy energetic sounds and excellent breakdown with long orchestral piece that is calming and epic to the maximum perfect to create that very special atmosphere to elevate your soul. The build up is intense and powerful leading to the stunning climax that is euphoric and anthemic to the maximum without any surprises or disappointing twists. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
Back on AVA with a huge new vocal single, Somna teams up with American singer / songwriter BLÜ EYES for "Drawn To You". Boombox shaking bass and searing pads cut through while BLÜ EYES' vocals paint a picture with beautiful brush strokes.
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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"]Vocals and Lyrics[/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"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/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]
[item value="10"]Somna & BLÜ EYES - Drawn To You[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Somna & BLÜ EYES work together for the brilliant Drawn To You. All the ingredients included are perfect to deliver outstanding results. Powerful thumping basslines, bouncy rough kick with that big club mainstage feel to it while on the breakdown the emotional melodies work perfectly to highlight the sensitive touching vocal that has even pop sensitivities. The drop is full on cranking raw and ready to rock the sound system with colourful synths and beautiful vocals. #PureGold Love IT[/content]
Cool grooves coming from India! Get Massive cleverly arranges a unique progressive affair with "Flureo". A solid first outing for the talented producer on AVA. Searing main leads joined in unison with mastery of the low frequencies completes the package and drives home the dance floor experience.
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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="9"]Originality and Inventiveness[/item]
[item value="9"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/item]
[item value="9"]You can’t get this memorable track out of your head[/item]
[item value="9"]It has potential to become an anthem or a classic[/item]
[item value="10"]Get Massive - Flureo[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]It's always incredible pleasure to welcome new artists and check how capable they are to deliver stunning feel good uplifting progressive tracks. Get Massive service his very powerful dose of chunky funky mild housey grooves, crunchy basslines, cool percussion and electro touches while the rhythm is euphoric and upfront to the very maximum.The breakdown along with the happy vocal samples unleashes the huge synthy hook that has the old school rave vibe to it. The climax has the drive and has all the right potential to impress for sure and bloom on the trancefloor. #PureGold Love IT[/content]
AVA's 200th release get's the uplifting treatment from Polish producer and AVA White's A&R A.R.D.I. ! Taking the original to the next level, A.R.D.I. injects his signature style and ups the tempo and energy. Absolutely massive and will no doubt tear up stages this summer!
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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"]Vocals and Lyrics[/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"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/item]
[item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/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]
[item value="10"]Andy Moor, Somna & Diana Leah - There Is Light (A.R.D.I. Remix)[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Andy Moor, Somna & Diana Leah impressive proglifting trance beauty is transformed into a full on headbanging euphoric trance anthem from A.R.D.I. who has the knowledge and skills to turn anything he touches into the absolute full on euphoric floorfiller. Tough metallic basslines, rough techy drums and stunning uplifting synths merged to create the ultimate trance anthem. Of course part of the winning formula is the superb Diana voice that has the sweetness and mesmerising quality to sound natural and truly soul touching. The breakdown includes sweet balearic guitar riffs to add that summery touch and the climax continues full on and truly euphoric with rave style synthy hook to blow minds! #PureGold Love IT [/content]
One of our favorite vocalists returns to AVA with a massive collaboration with Spanish producer Drival. Big heartfelt vocals alongside a thunderous production driven by melodic beauty litters the skyline in this package.
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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"]Vocals and Lyrics[/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"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/item]
[item value="10"]Radio Friendly[/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]
[item value="10"]Drival & Jennifer Rene - I Got You [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Drival and Jennifer Rene combine their superpowers for the stunning I Got You. Exceptional proglifting trancer with straight to the point arrangement of pulsating basslines, pounding kicks, euphoric synthy hooks and superb electro touches while on top Jennifer once again prove her worth and showcases her ability to touch the listeners and offer them endless goosebumps of emotional feel-goodness. There is chance that you will cry a little as well particularly if you dedicate this incredible track to someone very special. Straight to the point and sure winner without doubts. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
Back on AVA is British producer Rio Lorenzo with a quirky progressive number. Playful melodies dance about as Rio deftly twists bass frequencies into a groovy trance number. Gets the people going!
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/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]
[item value="10"]Rio Lorenzo - Aurora[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Rio Lorenzo is rocking the trance universe with his impressive warm balearic progressive trancer Aurora. Big fat drums, electro twisted basslines, pumping thumping grooves and incredible long and teasing breakdown that allow the main melody to expand and surround your senses along with nice piano chords. The climax has the epic carefree atmosphere that any trance event adores to have in its very loud and proud speakers. This is trance at its most emotional and exciting. #PureGold Love IT[/content]
It's always a special treat when our AVA White A&R A.R.D.I. drops by with a new single. Precious Time is an apt name for such a lush uplifter. Beautifully written pluck melodies that the Polish producer is renowned for fill, expand and lift the spirits and the capable hands of this seasoned producer ensures that the full package is a force to be reckoned with.
Dimitri Kechagias review:
[review top="1"]
[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"]Dancefloor Efficiency / Festival Arenas Effectiveness[/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]
[item value="10"] A.R.D.I. - Precious Time[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] A.R.D.I. strikes lucky with another huge uplifting monster tune called Precious Time. The track employs tough metallic hard basslines, thumping bouncy techy grooves and has great drive to push your mind and body forward. The piano melody in the breakdown is very deep and emotional so will touch you without doubts. Classy climax will bring massive euphoric synths and beautiful piano themes into perfect harmony for a truly floating vibrating pure escapist experience. #PureGold Love It[/content]
A big vocal collab drops onto AVA as Torio and Bigtopo & Omar Diaz make their AVA debut with "Fall For Me". Searing vocals and big peak time arrangements push and pull together for a package designed for maximum club impact.
We are glad that Torio has accepted the challenge to answer our questions for an in-depth truly revealing interview that you must read from start to finish.
Dimitri: When did you start your involvement with electronic dance music and which music style you are more affiliated with and why?
Torio: I started DJing in 2008 and I think that people mostly associate me with Vocal and Progressive Trance. Every thing I release has vocals. I consider my self more of a song writer than a producer of tracks.
Dimitri: Did you had the opportunity to attend any kind of music production course or are u completely self taught? Do you consider that is essential for any artist to complete any production course?
Torio: I never took any lessons in music. I started playing the guitar as a child and taught myself multiple instruments through out the years. I don't think production lessons are necessary but they can help certain people.
Dimitri: In which label was your first ever release and how did you manage to attract the attention of the label?
Torio: My first release was on a label called Blinded Records in 2010. Some one connected me with the A&R at the label. My first major release was "Be Without You" on Ultra Music in 2012.
Dimitri: Would you like to pick for us your Top 5 tracks that you have produced and you consider them as being highly important for the progress of your career indifferent if they were commercially successful.
Torio: "Ever After" was a collab with vocalist Polina which went Top 10 on Beatport and I named my radio show on di.fm Ever After Radio Show (#EARS).
Other big tracks for me would be my official remix for Tiësto of "Just Be",
My remake of Cyndi Lauper's "Time After Time"
and originals such as "Ascending" and "The Twin Paradox" both on Magic Island Records,
.
Dimitri: Let's focus on your latest release. Please tell us from where did you got the inspiration for the track?
Torio: I actually started the track as a Big Room Progressive project back in 2015 and then put it on the shelf for awhile. In 2017 I started talking to Bigtopo and Omar Diaz and we discussed a collab so I took it off the shelf and we turned it into Progressive Trance.
Dimitri: How long it took you to produce it and was an easy or difficult process?If you have faced any difficulties please tell us about them and how did you resolved them?
Torio: It may not have been finished without Bigtopo and Omar Diaz or it would've taken on a different form at least, since I was stuck on it for a while.
Dimitri: Which was the biggest challenge that you faced during the production of this superb track?
Torio: Figuring out what sub genre I wanted it to be
Dimitri: Can you describe to us the steps that you went through the production of this track and of any other track?
Torio: I started with the chords then wrote the lyrics and melody with the vocalist who sang it before connecting with Bigtopo and Omar Diaz for the make over of the track.
Dimitri: When the track finished did the label accepted it as it was produced or did the label recommend you to do some changes or fix certain things?
Torio: Bass volume adjustments and vocal eq
Dimitri: Is this track an original composition or is it based on a template from another track produced from you or another producer?
Torio: Completely original
Dimitri: Is the quality of this track higher than your previous one? If yes in what ways this track sounds better than your previous one?
Torio: I wouldn't say it's better or worse but it's different. This track was darker sounding than my last track.
Dimitri: Do you have any friends or relatives that you send them the track before sending it to a label or if you are DJ did you test it in your gigs? If yes did you have to do any alterations as a result of the crowd reaction?
Torio: When I was a resident at The MiD and Sound Bar in Chicago I used to use those rooms with their big sound systems as ways of testing tracks but this one didn't get any live tests now that I think about it. I felt confident it was going in the write direction with Bigtopo and Omar.
Dimitri: Please describe to us the studio that you have produced the track? What is your favourite hardware and software set up? Do you have in mind any new gear that you wish to get in order to raise the quality of your production?
Torio: I'm lucky to have some pretty good gear. I use Logic X and I have an Apollo 8 rack mount interface. I have a Neuman TLM-49 Microphone for recording vocals as well as a pair of Universal Audio 710 pre amps.
Dimitri: Do you master the track yourself or the mastering is task for the record label? Do you understand mastering as being essential?
Torio: It depends on the project but this one was mixed and mastered by an engineer who gave it a bit more volume and energy.
Dimitri: There is a growing trend of vinyl coming back for good. Would you like to see this track released on vinyl or any other of your future tracks? Do you prefer digital files or vinyl?
Torio: I don't see any point in bringing back something as inconvenient as vinyl.
Dimitri: If the package of the track includes remixes please note down here your opinion for each remix included.
Torio: We may release a remix pack towards the end of the year.
Dimitri: Do you have any future releases planned and when will be released?
Torio: I have a release called "Lost In A Dream" coming on Magic Island Records in the summer. June I believe. Currently I am finishing some other projects as well.
Dimitri: Can you please tell us here your Top 3 best DJ gigs so far and the reasons that made them so special?
Torio: I used to have some of the best residencies at the biggest clubs in Chicago such as The MiD, Sound Bar and a club called Enclave which is no longer around. I was fortunate to open for some of the biggest talent in the world. I would have to say my 3 favorite shows would be when I opened for Nadia Ali at Enclave, opening for Emma Hewitt at The MiD and opening for Blasterjaxx at The MiD. The energy for the Blasterjaxx show was one of the most intense I've ever experienced and both Emma Hewitt and Nadia Ali are 2 of my favourite vocalists.
Dimitri: Do you have any more DJ gigs planned for the next few months?
Torio: I am in the process of moving from Chicago to Florence Italy so I hope to be playing around Europe this summer.
Dimitri: Do you produce a radio show/podcast as well? Please tell us here all the details about it.
Torio: I host my Ever After Radio Show better known as #EARS every Friday on Di.fm/club at 3:00 PM CST/9:00 PM UK Time. It airs right after Above & Beyond Group Therapy. Cosmic Gate's WYM is the first show of the day followed by ABGT and then my show. I've had 177 episodes as of this interview and I've had some huge guests on the show such as The Chainsmokers, Steve Aoki, Gareth Emery, Ferry Corsten and a whole lot more.
Dimitri: Best piece of advice you got in relation to your career so far and best tip you learnt recently to make your tracks better.
Torio: I think the best advice I ever got in the music business was to not take rejection personally and to just keep working on improving your sound.
Dimitri: Please give us here your tips or more elaborated advice for any new artists who may read this interview and wish to get involved with the electronic music industry.
Torio: Believe in yourself but take constructive criticism. Surround yourself with positive people but also be sure to have people who will be honest with you. No one gets better without working on improving things that others may be critical of.
Thanks very much to Torio for this interview. We wish him all the best in his career.
