Lose yourself in the radiant glow of Lightforms, the captivating new release from Protoculture. Lightforms is an evocative Progressive Trance journey with a nod to classic Progressive Breakbeat tracks of the early 2000s, wrapped in atmospheric beauty and driving energy. Lightforms is ready to light up your speakers.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"] Lose yourself in the radiant glow of Lightforms, the latest mesmerizing release from Protoculture, which showcases his mastery in Progressive Trance production. This track is not just an auditory journey but a technical marvel that reflects Protoculture’s intricate craftsmanship and deep understanding of sound design. At its core, Lightforms pulsates at a steady 126 BPM, offering a seamless blend of melodic depth and raw progressive energy. The track’s foundation is built on rich, resonant basslines that provide a driving undercurrent, intricately layered with thumping kicks designed to maintain relentless momentum on the dancefloor. The tribal percussion elements, synonymous with Protoculture’s distinctive style, lend an organic texture that contrasts beautifully with the synthetic soundscape. In terms of production techniques, Protoculture employs a sophisticated use of sidechain compression, allowing the bass and kick to breathe dynamically within the mix. The atmospheric layers are crafted using lush reverb tails and subtle delay effects, creating an expansive, almost ethereal backdrop that envelops the listener. The breakdown is particularly noteworthy, featuring trippy breakbeats reminiscent of early 2000s Progressive Breakbeat, combined with evolving pads and shimmering arpeggios that add a hypnotic quality. Sound design in Lightforms is meticulously detailed. Warm analog synths intertwine with crisp digital leads, processed through modulation effects that give them a fluid, evolving character. The climactic section is where Protoculture’s production prowess truly shines—an anthemic build supported by a powerful synth hook that employs both detuned saw waves and harmonic layering to achieve a soaring, euphoric resonance. The culmination is an exhilarating release of energy, designed to elicit a visceral response, raising goosebumps and igniting dancefloors. Released under Protoculture’s own imprint, Marula Music, Lightforms stands as a testament to his evolution as an artist. It’s a track that not only pays homage to the roots of Progressive Trance but also pushes the boundaries with modern production techniques, making it a must-listen for both long-time fans and new listeners alike. #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]
Protoculture and Benjamin Duchenne join forces to unleash ‘Shiva’, a transcendent journey through driving grooves and luminous melodies. Built on a foundation of deep, driving basslines and carefully created synths, this hypnotic masterpiece weaves detailed layers of sound, blurring the lines between energy and emotion. With a cinematic atmosphere in the break and a build that surges like a rising tide, ‘Shiva’ captures the essence of movement and transformation. A perfect fusion of progressive depth and euphoric release, this trance smash is destined to bring the dancefloor to life and elevate minds. Brace yourself for a rhythmic revelation, ‘Shiva’ is here to take you beyond the ordinary.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Protoculture and Benjamin Duchenne have come together to create a transcendent auditory experience with their track "Shiva," a proglifting trance masterpiece set at a driving 130 BPM. The track is a finely-tuned synthesis of elements that form a cohesive and powerful soundscape, crafted meticulously with modern production techniques. Starting with the bassline, "Shiva" lays down a foundation of energetic, pulsating frequencies that act as the heartbeat of the track. This bassline is complemented by thumping, rolling drums that provide a rhythmic backbone, propelling the listener forward with unyielding momentum. Each beat is delivered with precision, thanks to punchy kick drums that cut through the mix with clarity, ensuring every pulse is felt. One of the standout features of "Shiva" is its use of ethnic spiritual style vocals, which weave through the track, adding a layer of cultural depth and a touch of the mystical. These vocals serve to elevate the listener's experience, bridging the gap between the music and the soul, urging introspection and connection. The breakdown section of "Shiva" is where Protoculture and Duchenne's production prowess truly shines. Utilizing dreamy breaks, this segment provides a juxtaposition to the rest of the track’s intensity, offering a moment's respite and introspection. The sound design here is characterized by lush pads and ethereal textures, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. As the track reaches its climax, "Shiva" unleashes a full-on euphoric, epic uplifting sound. The build-up to this point is carefully crafted, with layers of melodic synths and soaring leads combining to create a mythical crescendo. The use of reverb and delay effects during this climax is expertly controlled, adding to the track's expansive, festival-ready feel. The technical craftsmanship and production techniques employed in "Shiva" ensure it is a track that will resonate with audiences, particularly at summer festivals where its energy and beauty can be appreciated on a grand scale. The flawless integration of various auditory elements makes this track a standout piece in the proglifting trance genre, truly #PureGold and not to be missed. #LoveiT[/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]
At the end of 2024, Dennis Sheperd unveiled his Release album, a multi-format exploration of trance, progressive house, and melodic genres. The album also offered upcoming producers access to stems for every track. Resonance emerges from this initiative, delivering an uplifting take on Dennis’ original by Protoculture.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Protoculture Remixes Dennis Sheperd’s and LX’s magical tune “Resonance.” The South African producer offers an immersive sonic experience. Protoculture’s authentic and unique production incorporates intricate tribal percussion, warm strings and synths, and a captivating tapestry of sounds that attracts the listener’s attention. The breakdown is atmospheric, with powerful main synthy hooks propelling the listener to distant galaxies in search of life. Protoculture’s innovative sound continues to elevate the music industry, demonstrating his ability to evolve and transcend boundaries. #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]
The Hit The Bass & Lanti remix of Manticore, featured on Armin van Buure’s A State of Trance 2024 album, is an electrifying and stadium-quivering track that amplifies the impact of the original with an abundance of energy, colossal synths, and a relentless psytrance bassline. This reimagining of Protocultures’ 2016 release on Armada Captivating is precisely what the crowd needs to unleash a fist-pumping frenzy and descend into a state of euphoria.
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Protoculture Manticore’s standout single receives an expansive remix by the Greek duo Hit The Bass & Lanti. They deliver an energetic trance version with psy trance basslines, pounding drums, razor-sharp kicks, and thunderous drums. Aggressive acid layers and dreamy melodic elements build up, leading to a cool breakdown when the big synthy rays explode, offering euphoria and happiness. The drop is aggressive, direct, and hard-hitting, effectively pushing the party. The second part introduces some cool mainstage synthy plucks that transport the listener to the final full-on euphoric hands-in-the-air climax, which we wish could be a bit longer. #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]
Nate Raubenheimer, known globally by his stage name Protoculture, is a South African DJ and music producer who has been a dynamic and influential figure in the electronic dance music scene. With a career spanning over two decades, he has become renowned for his unique blend of trance and progressive sounds, captivating audiences worldwide.
Born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa, Nate's journey into music began at a young age. He showed an early affinity for electronic music, and by the early 2000s, he was already making waves with his debut as Protoculture, and he quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach to psy trance music, blending it with various elements from across the electronic dance music spectrum.
Protoculture's music is characterized by its emotive melodies, intricate harmonies, and driving basslines, all of which come together to create a truly immersive listening experience. He has a unique ability to connect with his audience, whether through his energetic live performances or through his meticulously crafted studio releases.
Over the years, Nate has released numerous singles, EPs, and albums that have received critical acclaim and have been featured in the playlists of some of the biggest names in trance music including Armin van Buuren, Paul Oakenfold, Markus Schulz, Ferry Corten and more. His tracks are a staple on renowned labels like Armada Music, and he has collaborated with a range of artists, contributing to the evolution of the trance genre.
In addition to his production work, Protoculture is a sought-after performer. He has graced the stages of some of the world's most prestigious music festivals, including Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival, and A State of Trance events, delivering unforgettable experiences to trance enthusiasts globally.
Nate's dedication to his craft and his ability to constantly evolve his sound while staying true to his roots make him a respected figure in the electronic music community. Whether in the studio or on stage, Protoculture continues to push the boundaries of trance music, inspiring both fans and fellow artists alike.
Protoculture has just started his own record label Marula Music and we more than excited to have an exclusive interview with him about the magnificent first track Starfield. Enjoy his very informative answers.
1-Dimitris: It would be nice to start by telling us your 3 most important achievements or goals fulfilled in your career so far that you very are proud of.
Protoculture: I've always done this as a means of enjoyment rather than goals I wanted to tick off in a career. That said, some of the higlights for me would be working with and remixing for some of my heroes such as BT. Producing for Bryan Adams was a notable acomplishment in my career, and some of the amazing festivals I've played such as Glastonbury Music Festival and Fuji Rock I would consider achivements.
2-Dimitris: Why and under which circumstances did you took the decision to start DJing or producing electronic dance music?
Protoculture: I was always taken with music production. I'd been tinkering with that since I was 12 using old sequencers and trackers under MS Dos after I got my first computer. The DJing was just a natural progression from that as the music became more serious.
3-Dimitris: Can you note down the top 3 producers that have influenced your decision to get involved in the electronic dance music scene and you admire and respect them very much?
Protoculture: BT, Orbital and The Crystal Method.
4-Dimitris: Can you tell us the top 3 tracks from the past that have influenced your sound the most and why?
Protoculture: Binary Finary's 1998, Hybrids Finished Symphony and Future Sound of London's Papau New Guinea. They all embody elements I hold dear in my music... blissful, emotional melodies and so forth.
5-Dimitris: It would be fantastic to talk about your track Satrfield on your own newly established label Marula Music. Please tell us how Starfield came about and what was the idea behind it.
Protoculture: Starfield was really the culmination of a direction I've been wanting to take for ages. I started on a more progressive path with my last album on Armada but have been wanting to incorporate more undergound psychedlic flavours from my past productions as a psytrance artist into this style. It's the perfect middle ground for me between progressive house and trance.
6-Dimitris: How long it took you to produce it and can u describe the production process in simple steps?
Protoculture: A day or two if I remember correctly... I always try to get tracks out as quickly as possible so I don't get caught up in the technical stuff and stifle my creativity.
7-Dimitris: Did you had any particular difficulties accomplishing that particular track or any specific technical challenges or obstacles that you had to overcome during its production.
Protoculture: Not really, I think this is a natural progression and a direction I've been heading in for some time.
8-Dimitris: If you would have the opportunity to change something in your track and maybe to do a new remix what elements are you unhappy with and you are going to change? Is there any artist that you feel would be fantastic to remix this track and why?
Protoculture: I'm actually pretty happy with the result. As a producer, I always think I can go back and change some element of the mix or production, but I find it's best to keep your focus in front of you and move forward rather than backwards. In terms of remixes... I actually haven't given it much though.
9- Dimitris: Which music composition software or hardware you prefer and why? What is your opinion of the latest movement to produce music with more analogue equipment and with less or without any digital software?
Protoculture: I moved to Bitwig two years ago and it has totally changed the way I work. It's one of the most inspiring music tools I have ever come across. I'm indifferent to the analog/digital debate. I love hardware and have owned tons of gear over the years. That said, I don't use any right now and am purely sofware based, but I have been enjoying working with the use of controllers such as NI's Maschine, which I have set up to drive Bitwig instead of the native software.
10-Dimitris: Do you believe that artwork on your latest track is good and do you believe that artwork can attract listeners or record buyers? Can you mention the best artwork of a track ever released?
Protoculture: The artwork is just a reflection of my taste. I don't put too much emphasis on it to be honest, but obviously it needs to be something I find attractive and that suits my style. Best artwork? I miss the days of vinyl... 70's rock albums like Brain Salad Surgery that featured art from HR Geiger, Yessongs albums etc. The inner sleeve of Prodigy's Jilted Generation is another one that springs to mind.
11-Dimitris: Can you pick your favorite top 3 record labels including the one released the track that we discuss in this interview and give us a short comment about why these labels are important to you and the music scene too?
Protoculture: Marula musis is my own new imprint which I started to give myself a space to release my own music free of anyone elses interference. Always love a lot of stuff that comes out of Anjuna Deep. On the flip side, I'm enjoying a lot of the stuff from John 00 Flemmings JOOF label too.
12-Dimitris: Are you planning to complete an album or mix compilation soon? if yes please give us all the details about regarding tracks and how will look and sound like?
Protoculture: Nope. I'm focusing on singles for the new label right now.
13-Dimitris:How much time do you spend promoting yourself in your social media and you see this as essential tool for self promotion and getting bookings too? Which social media is the one that seems to work better for you?
Protoculture: As little as possible. It's a nescessary evil but I don't revel in spending time on socials. I don't use twitter or tik tok at all and I've drawn the line at updating Facebook and Insta only. I do have a commmunity on Youtube though that I have built over the last few years doing production tutorials.
14-Dimitris: Do you have your own radio show/podcast/twitch stream or Vlog(video blog)? If yes please give us a comment about it and how long it take you to prepare for it and if you are always excited to produce it?
Protoculture: I had one... it was fun for a while but I just don't have time at the moment to maintain it. I'm more focused on getting music done right now and perhaps getting more video content out at some point. I may go back to doing something at some point, but I doubt it would be something as regular as I used to do.
15-Dimitris: Do you have any gigs/festival performances confirmed so far for 2024 in which ones are you most excited to perform and why?
Protoculture: I've got Belgium, Tokyo and Brazil lined up, albeit for my Shadow Chronicles alias. We're working on stuff for Protoculture still.
16-Dimitris: Please share your most funny and most serious incident that happen to you during your DJ or LIVE PA performance?
Protoculture: I tripped and fell of a stage in Cape Town once. I hurt myself quite a bit so it was serious I guess but also hilarious at the same time.
17-Dimitris: Are you happy about the quality of the tracks released in your preferred music genres? Please justify your answer with your opinion about it!
Protoculture: Not really. Dance music is in a bit of a weird place for me at personally at the moment. I don't really resonate with any of the main floor trance stuff or psy stuff either. I love the progressive stuff at the momet but I wish there was more in the middle.
Illusions - Christoph and Artche (still playing this all the time!)
and Jamie Stevens - Transference (Chable Remix) (I just get so lost in this one...)
19-Dimitris: If you expect to have a steady income from your music productions are you satisfied with the way that royalties system works particularly regarding streaming revenue? Do you believe that artists get what they deserve from streaming providers/DJs playing your tracks in gigs/radio and selling music in physical formats like CDs/Vinyl or digitally.
Protoculture: Not at all. Its a travesty how artists are treated with respect to royalties. Sadly, that is the reality and as an artist you have to find other avenues to crack it at the end of the day.
20-Dimitris: Please note for all the new talents that read this interview to get some inspiration from you any technical tips in relation to your DJing or music productions. Also any piece of personal or music business' advice that has helped you to progress even further and is worth telling to the new upcoming talents.
Protoculture: Just stay true to yourself, pratice and try to enjoy yourself along the way.
21-Dimitris: Is there a club classic that you would like to remix or rework in 2023? Do you attempt often to do your own bootlegs of classics?
Protoculture: I'd love to remix Orbital's Halcyon on and on.
22-Dimitris: How much do you care if your fans or followers like your productions? Do you struggle with the audience reception of your tracks and is this thought adds extra pressure on you and discourage you too?
Protoculture: Everybody does to an extent. You do have to try find a balance between letting that affect you though and not giving a shit.
23-Dimitris: Is your music business your full time occupation and are you able to make a leaving out of your music business (DJ/producer/label owner/teaching or mastering tracks)? If not what other jobs are you doing in order to support your income?
Protoculture: I've been full time for over twenyty years... recently though I've been split between thsi and other pursuits.
24-Dimitris: Do you believe that audience should be banned from constantly taking photos or videos during DJ sets or are you happy with these activities?
Protoculture: I honestly don't care... people should do what they want to do at a festival.
25-Dimitris: Do you prefer small clubs or huge festivals to perform? in which festivals or clubs you aspire to play in the future?
Protoculture: Neither... both have their merits.
Dimitris: Your message & wishes for Flux Bpm Online readers.
Protoculture: Thanks for the support!
Thanks so much to Nate for his stunning answers and we wish him all the best with his label Marula Music.
Thanks so much to Onno for organizing this interview. The best artist and label manager out there for sure.
Picked up for inclusion on Armin van Buuren’s ‘A State Of Trance, Ibiza 2022’ album, ‘Wings’ sees Protoculture, Nicholas Gunn and Alina Renae deliver their best collaborative effort yet. An incredible vocal piece that draws from uplifting trance as well as melodic techno, this track will surely sweep listeners off their feet.
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"]Protoculture & Nicholas Gunn feat. Alina Renae - Wings [/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Protoculture & Nicholas Gunn collaborate for the brilliant Wings featuring on vocals the fantastic Alina Renae. The track is a fantastic driving progressive trancer with cinematic strings, haunting moody basslines, melodramatic melodies and great 80's synthy pop melodies. The lyrics are brilliant with depth and emotional affinity to touch your heart and soul really deep. The breakdown unleashes the big synthy lead until it bursts all the energy and dynamism in the climax when you feel that you have wings and actually you can fly up and away. So beautiful and well produced with high quality standards. This is a classic in the making! #PureGold Love iT [/content]
2 of trance's big guns team up to deliver a wonderful slice of peak time trance with a progressive touch on Monoverse's Parallels. Haunting vocals and a hooky stab lead will make this one of Parallels best releases to date.
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"]Dennis Sheperd - Tafelberg[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]When Dennis meets Protoculture then the result can only be amazing. Absolutely out of this world beautiful emotionally charged production with thumping drums, pulsating driving basslines, emotional cinematic strings and heavenly female vocals along with the right set of synthy hooks turn this track into an instant winner for those progressive moments of any trance set as we build the journey towards the uplifting ones. Particularly in the climax when all the various sound layers come together its like listening your favourite symphonic orchestra. Classy from start to finish proves that Dennis is one of the hottest artists to watch out and definitely his future is bright! #PureGold Love iT [/content]
It takes only one phenomenal melody to get fans excited and this one has crowds of millions strong going wild. A signature Protoculture track that excels on all fronts, 'Thirty Three South' is that 100% uplifting speaker-buster you've been searching for all this time.
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"]Protoculture - Thirty Three South[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Protoculture is ready to unleash another gem to conquer the trance stages this summer with his banger Thirty Three South. The track has the massive epic anthemic synthy hook that is difficult to resist when you hear it on the trancefloor combined with thumping drums, energetic driving basslines and stomping groove that hook you instantly. With always certain balearic sentiments the track is so large and beautiful that you will find pressing the play button many times and guess what...Your feelings of excitement will stay the same. Goosebumps from head to toe, thank you Protoculture, we are grateful for your talent! #PureGold Love It[/content]
With releases across the Armada spectrum, Nate Raubenheimer - he who proclaimed that 'Music is More than Mathematics' - is back on A State of Trance. Catching audiences in action-packed crossfire, the classic trance sound from South Africa's number one DJ is boosted by elements of dubstep's robo combat, taking breath with a mixture of tantalising voodoo and the captivatingly orchestral, and carrying both a lightness of touch while waging blood and thunder. "Everything he touches turns to musical gold" says Armin van Buuren: with this voyage through the 'Valley...', it's easy to see why.
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"]Ethnic Vocals[/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"]Protoculture - Valley Of The Red Gods[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]One of the most beloved and most consistent talent is Protoculture. Everything he unleashes is just magic that any trancer wants to be part of and leave it till its last second. The same applies for his newest ASOT creation Valley Of The Red Gods. The track has excellent drum programming, thumping powerful basslines and most importantly incredible breakdown with cinematic sound design and magical sonic that includes brilliant ethnic vocal that seems to work like a treat and elevate the track one level higher. The climax follows the cracking solid and stomping big room direction rich with vibrant synthy stabs that ensure to uplift the crowd. #PureGold Love IT [/content]
Anticipated by fans across the world, the next Protoculture masterpiece has arrived. Spiked with towering synths, driving bass and stunning builds, 'Sunspire' sees the South African Trance maestro refine his blend of marvelous melodies and gorgeous atmospheres while adding extra energy to top it all off. 'Sunspire' could very well be your highlight of the year.
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"]Protoculture - Sunspire[/item]
[content title="Summary" label="Overall Score"]Protoculture is always on great shape and his productions sound firm, solid and tight. Sunspire is his latest uplifting proglifting trancer with massive anthemic synthy hooks and great predictable arrangement with long and teasing atmospheric chilling breakdown when the main synthy hook is slowly revealed until it explodes out of any proportion and drive us on the bumpy full on climax that is epic and incredibly effective. The melody is not very original but is beautifully crafted to get the maximum impact and become memorable. #PureGold Love IT[/content]
The best global electronic dance music festival in the world, Tomorrowland in Belgium celebrated its ten year anniversary in a most impressive and memorable way. The super strong festival manages year by year to become even better and raise the bar for its competitors. It's true that Tomorrowland opened the gates for more electronic dance music festivals to try and mimic its atmosphere, or the successful way that they communicate the festival through social media such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and radio broadcasting of the event. The problem is, when you imitate you always stay behind rather than become the leader. Tomorrowland is without doubt the leading brand in EDM festival entertainment, and those who have attended the festival document their excellent experience in their photos and comments on Facebook or Twitter.
Tomorrowland knows really well how to build excitement and prepare the visitors for the atmosphere before they actually put their feet on the festival grounds. From flights to themed hotels and Dream Ville camping, everything has a single theme running throughout, creating a mythical world that sends you to outer space forgetting your still in this world. With eyes closed or open, Tomorrowland devotes a whole year to prepare next years show, and they always deliver without complaints or dissatisfied visitors.
Tomorrowland is proud to have the best stages, with the biggest and most influential DJ’s playing on them. One of the stages that did big damage and was packed all day, was Trance Addict stage with explosive performances from DJ’s like Andrew Rayel, Orjan Nilsen, Sean Tyas, MaRLo, Paul Oakenfold, and as an the icing in the cake, the final back-2- back performance of the legend Max Graham and the current superstar Protoculture from South Africa. I was pleased that I had the chance to check out the majority of their DJ set, and close the first day at the festival at the Trance Addict stage. Before their second performance at the Trance Addict stage, as they performed at the first weekend too, I managed to catch up with them and record nearly an 18 minute long interview, which you can watch right here.
There are many issues covered and many questions asked that I feel were answered in detail. First, we talked with Max Graham about his label Re*Brand and his well-known radio show Cycles Radio. He reveals what the future holds for the label, and if he is going to release any new tracks soon, as he is super busy touring during the summer at festivals and Ibiza. We discuss his forthcoming compilation that will most likely be released in January 2015. With Protoculture, we focused on his album ‘Music is more than Mathematics’. He speaks with great satisfaction about it and he chooses his favourite tracks from it. He answers that he feels comfortable working with singers, and he explains how he deals with the production of vocal tracks, and with great warmth he tell us about the track he produced with the heartbeat sound of his new born baby, which seems to be his Key to Happiness at the moment. What is more, he reveals that there is a remix edition of the album in the pipeline, and he is super-excited about it that and it will be out at the end of 2014.
Of course, both talk great extent about their performances at Tomorrowland, and they express their amazement with the way that the festival is organised in very great detail. For the upcoming producers out there, they offer their advice to follow the heart and not try to copy current successes at the Beatport trance chart. Overall, it’s a great interview that proves once again the fantastic chemistry between these two fantastic producers! Prepare your favourite fruit punch and start watching.
Many thanks to Max Graham & Protoculture for their patience and time devoted to record this interview.
Also, many thanks to Marije de Konink & Carmen van den Werf from Armada Music offices for their assistance in arranging interviews.
Not forgetting thanks to Debby Wilmsen & ID&T Belgium for the press accreditation.
Thanks very much to Paul Aldridge for publishing the interview at 1mix radio web site click here
The titles of the video interview contain extract from Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike vs W&W - Waves (Tomorrowland 2014 Anthem) on Main stage /Armada/ Kontor records
Music Is More Than Mathematics The title track off of Protoculture’s upcoming album, ‘Music Is More Than Mathematics’, perfectly encapsulates the sound and the spirit of his latest body of work.
Easily worthy of a single, this outstanding record proves beyond a shadow of a doubt why Protoculture deserves worldwide recognition for what he does.
Dimitri Kechagias review: He is definitely one of the most important producers of his generation and he is super talent beyond any doubt. The beloved Protoculture is a real star who is admired not as a result of heavy hype machine behind him but because of his music only and this doesnt happen so often nowadays as the majority of artists fall into the trap of manipulating their audience. Protoculture has his own unique sound that is established and identical to his name. The decision to release an artist album on Armada is definitely the best news for his growing fanbase worldwide. His brand new single on the influential imprint Re*Brand headed by the legend Max Graham is called Music Is More Than Mathematics. The title first of all is so brilliant and indicative of what happens in the electronic music scene that computers and algorithms decide on what melodies we are going to dance along too. Music is about emotions and as it seems Protoculture is very good on his mission to translate those emotions into fantastic inspirational music that clubbers worldwide adore and perhaps will keep in their soul some of this warmth after leaving the club and even help them to understand the world from a different perspective. His bubbly beats, deep throbbing haunting driving basslines are supported by warm strings, airy pads that nicely lead us on the breakdown that his piano melody comes to the surface to wake up our senses and communicate deep in our hearts. The main classic synthy lead appears and we feel those butterflies in our stomach as we are getting prepared for something extraordinaire. The distorted vocal sample comes to make the statement that Music Is More Than Mathematics and the track moves in its final sequence that starts quite dark and aggressive with even some psy trance influences in there before the final part that the euphoric uplifting synthy lead reappears for the last hands in the air moment. It's always big pleasure to find out that great artists like Protoculture continue without hearing the calls of the sirens to produce populist EDM that seems to be everywhere these days. But I guess he is real Artist! #PureGold Love iT
Check his interview on Armada Music web site about his album click here
