HIDE & SEEK with Jan Johnston-Because Of You [We Are Trance]

 

This year has been full of great music already, sometimes hard to keep track of it all. So much talent in today's world, definitely something to be joyous about as music really does lift one's spirit out of the dumps on one of their most dreadful of days! 

 The latest release to catch my eye or my ears perhaps, is the profound "Because Of You" constructed by artists on the rise "HIDE & SEEK" (who will definitely not remain hidden for too long), alongside the legendary singer/songwriter "Jan Johnston", responsible for numerous dance music hits that remain firm favorites for us all to present date. "Because Of You" is out on major South African label "We Are Trance", owned and operated by none other than one of South Africa's unsung dance music heroes, "Dirkie Coetzee" with valuable help by U.S.A's sublime artist "Suzy Solar" and another of South Africa's major talents "Corrie Theron".

 Vivid rhythms spring forward, like an agile jungle cat, amidst a complementary percussion and a overzealous melody. Jan herself appears in the tune early on, adding her touch of vocal magic and enchantment while an overflow of emotions takes over like a tidal wave. An utter radiance emanates within the break of the track, all the while illuminated by Jan's one of a kind colorful hues of vocal brilliance over the vibrant synths and epic melodies at hand. The build that follows takes things to the next level, hammering away relentlessly among a bittersweet backdrop. Jan continues her seductive performance, elevating the track to the highest peaks. 

A definite win for "HIDE & SEEK" and Jan that will bring a huge smile to the club goers and radio enthusiasts alike!

Released: 31/3/2023

Label: We Are Trance

https://www.beatport.com/release/because-of-you/4046231 

Exclusive Interview with DIM3NSION!

The amazing thing in dance music is the global scale of it all and the connection we all have to it. Artists and fans alike connect, form friendships and are of course unified by the wondrous power of the music itself. Artists arise from all corners of the world, fueled by their passion and love for the music they play and many times create. 

One of the most charismatic and gifted artists out there is without a doubt an artist from Vigo, Spain who answers to the name "DIM3NSION". He has been a bright beacon in the dance music scene for many years now, constantly bringing something new and exciting to the field. His steady flow of uncanny releases over the years have brought large smiles to many dance music faithful fans around the world. Creating music for him is not a job or favorite pass time. It is a necessity and that can be seen if you pay close attention to any of his releases. They are filled with pure emotion and an energy that brightens the mood on any given day. It is always a rare pleasure to interview him and I am pleased to share this exclusive interview with you all for "MusicTalk15".

Question 1: Last time we sat down and talked was in Amsterdam during “ADE 2017” for an interview for “Trancefix.nl”. Great times! Has the “Amsterdam Dance Event” become a yearly tradition for you ever since and are you perhaps planning a comeback for the next edition this year?

Hey Kostas, first of all, thank you so much for the interview. It´s nice to talk with you again 6 years later! Absolutely, I think ADE is a must for any artist. I couldn’t join the previous editions but this year I will come back to see old friends and open new business.

Question 2: Covid and the lockdown around the world was a huge blow to the scene that we love and the artists more than most. Did you work during that devastating period and if not how did you stay occupied? Did you dive into creating new music and in return focusing on your craft?

Well, that chapter in our lives was indeed quite bad for everybody but I have been always focused on music. I´m positive in life and I was thinking all the time that the covid shit will stop and the situation would change sooner or later so I was still focused on creating music. There were some changes in my organization as well during that chapter and it was the reason why I have not released as much music as I would have love to in 2021 and especially 2022 but finally, I´m getting where I want to be and you can see that this year with all the music that I’ve already released.

Question 3: What were the highlights of last year for you and what are you most looking forward to this year?

For me 2022 doesn’t have any highlights to be honest with you. I just released two songs last year and that’s unacceptable for me. I´m an artist able to do more than 2 songs in 365 days. Nowadays an artist needs one release per month as minimum to keep being visible so I was very disappointed with that. Most of the songs I´m signing and releasing this year have been produced in 2022 but they have been there waiting for the right moment.

 Question 4: What would you say were your favorite tracks of 2022 and what artists do you acknowledge for their contribution to the scene so far this year?

Maybe the remix I did for "Sunnteck – Explorer", featured on the "In Search Of Sunrise" compilation was my favorite of last year. I have been experimenting and discovering a lot of artists. I´m a big fan of the combination of future rave and trance. Armin is doing awesome for example with his club mixes of "Come Around Again", "Let You Down"... that type of sound is what I´m feeling at the moment. "Skytech", "BLR", "Aname" or "Avao" are some of the names I’ve listened to the most last year.

Question 5: With severe restrictions and lockdown in effect we witnessed quite a few artists locking themselves away in the studio and returning with their premier artist albums. You have given us loads of magnanimous single releases over the years. Do you feel that the time has come for a “DIM3NSION” artist album this year? 

From the point of view of an artist, creating an album is like the ultimate goal. It´s like seeing your full creation out there in the hands of the people, not only digital, you can convert your music into something tangible. It´s something I really want to do. But on the other hand, I don´t feel it is the right moment yet, I need to grow a little bit more, have a bigger fan reach and keep releasing music often on the biggest labels like I´m doing this year. After that, let´s see what´s going on, but an album is a goal for me. Absolutely yes.

Question 6: One of your most renowned and instantly recognizable tracks is the wonderful “Origami”. Still one of my faves ever! Do you have any plans for a follow up style-wise to that tune or perhaps a rework of the beloved tune for 2023?

Absolutely! "Origami" is probably the most beautiful thing that happened to me. Also "Mangata" which was a follow-up of Origami has worked pretty well. I think there are more people who know me because of Mangata rather than Origami.... Certainly, I already did a follow up of this track and it was "Theia".My first signing of this year, it was released on "FSOE" last January and reached a top 10 position on Beatport. I`m very happy with what "Theia" has brought.

Question 7: You are mostly known for your most vivid instrumental tunes. It was a big surprise to see you working on a vocal release. How did that come about and will we see more vocal tunes from you in the near future? 

In the beginning I was not comfortable working with vocals because there is a longer process until it gets released. You have to wait for approvals, lyrics, the recorded vocals, changes, etc... It´s true that for the people,vocal tracks work always much better than instrumentals but this year, I felt it was the time to change this. I actually have signed to Armada 3 vocal tunes for the second half of 2023, so yeah. In the near future there will be more vocal tunes!

Question 8: Do you have any favorite movies or series that you enjoy watching? Have you ever considered working on a movie soundtrack?

Not right now. What I love the most from the TV series or films is listening to the soundtracks and sometimes it makes me lose the dialogues... :p I enjoy them a lot and I took many as inspiration but for now, I prefer to keep my focus on my business, my releases as "DIM3NSION", "Benner" and also the music I´m doing as a ghost producer for other artists, clients, online classes and my "Patreon" on: patreon.com/dim3nsion

Question 9: Years back you had provided us with a DJ mix compilation for “Flashover Recordings”. Can we expect a future mix compilation from you once more in the near future?

That compilation was very fun to make. I selected and mixed personally together with the a&r of "Flashover" at that time, Celwin Frenzen (owner of "EDCT Recordings" nowadays). It is not in my plans to do another mix compilation in the future but I´m planning to run my own record label in 2024!

 

Question 10: Do you happen to have any exciting events you happen to be performing at this year that you would like to share with us?

Well, after covid I lost all my gigs, there were cool things in schedule like a China tour, some dates in the USA as well as in Europe... but everything stopped for me. My plans right now are to make the best music possible, release as much music as I can this year and working to find the right people to work in order to have gigs again in 2024, nothing in schedule for now unfortunately.

Question 11: The Spanish trance family is definitely on a rise. Over the years we have seen more and more trance music oriented events popping up plus the rise of the “Summer Story” festival. All great things for the scene there. What are your thoughts on the matter as a Spaniard and as an artist? Do you see Spain having more and more attention from the fans wishing to travel there for an event or from the artists themselves expressing a similar interest?

The Spanish trancefamily has grown for sure, but is still a small niche. Good people and good fans. I feel beloved and I´m grateful for that but trance in Spain is still really small. Spain is not a good country for electronic dance music, most of the people just want have fun at the festivals, a festival is a business and they follow the trends. I understand completely and respect it but for example nowadays, most of the festivals are focused in techno which is the bigger genre at the moment.

Question 12: “Ferry Corsten” has always been a big inspiration to you. The concept change of his radio show from “Corsten’s Countdown” to “Resonation Radio” was a daring move yet met with great success. You have worked with him many times in the past. Will we perhaps see you assuming guest mix duties on his radio show soon?

Who knows? I´m always working to have the best music possible and get a bigger reach and opportunities. Being his guest on "Resonation" would be a pleasure for me and another cool opportunity :)

Question 13: Rumor has it that you have a brand new release coming out on legendary label “Future Sound of Egypt”! Would you care to share with us some information regarding this release?

 Yes! This new track is called "Funktionlust"' a German word which means "the pleasure of doing what one is made to do or what one does the best". It was released on Monday April 3^rd and I´m very excited for this release. Happy to come back to "Future Sound Of Egypt". I still love this type of sound and FSOE is one of the biggest labels for trance, you have to be there if you are a trance artist. So I´m very grateful to "Aly & Fila" and the team for signing this record!

 

Quincy Weigert-Silhouette E.P [Nethertapes Records]

 

The year 2023 has already brought forth many amazing releases our way. Always joyful to showcase new and exciting releases by some of the dance music scene's most talented and diverse artists out there. One of the artists that has gained my respect with his steady flow of releases and increased quality time after time through his music is American DJ/Producer "Quincy Weigert". Have featured several of his releases in the past and when I listened to his new musical offering, the thrilling "Silhouette E.P", I was compelled to write yet another review! The aforementioned E.P consists of two gripping tracks: "Silhouette" and "Afterdark" and is out on his home label "Nethertape Records". Let's peer inside this mesmerizing aural offering shall we?

 "Silhouette": Distant voices like long lost spirits drift in among sturdy basslines, dark patterns and western inspired guitar riffs thus creating a truly unique sounding atmosphere. Rushes of sound much like the rustling of leaves and curious melodies move through the mix while haunting female vocals eerily float within the tune sending chills down our spines. A truly unique tune that has a lot to offer and will amaze the clubbers wherever it is played out!

 "Afterdark": Chugging basslines, intriguing melodies and nefarious synths lay about forming a rather bleak and brooding aural picture before us! Female vocal wails and calls much like the enchantresses of old tempt us further inward. Assorted effects and epic melodies further complete this aural imagery as we find ourselves getting utterly lost, searching wide eyed through the thick mist and darkness equipped with only flaming torches to guide us through these dark, uncharted lands. Curiosity, adventure and an inner calling to the deepest depths of our being pushes us further on to the discovery of this dark, mystical, treacherous world! Another epic tune to add to your vast musical libraries!

 Quincy has done it again providing us with a truly memorable E.P that will without a doubt appeal to all the dance music lovers out there!

Released: 31/3/2023

Label: Nethertapes Records  

https://www.beatport.com/release/silhouette/4036098 

Paul Sawyer-30 Years A DJ (Album Review)

 

In any line of work or creative process there are key factors for the prosperous journey that lies ahead. Passion, determination and of course talent are definitely needed. In the following case "Paul Sawyer", one of the world's finest DJ's and producers has certainly left his mark in the dance music scene. We have all cherished and danced along to his exquisitely crafted tunes or remixes on many occasions. In addition to his vast body of work, be it originals, ecstatic collaborations or sublime remix work, he owns and operates his very own label "Krafted" alongside "Simon Sinfield" and "Darren Braddick". Being in the game for quite a spell, he has been climbing that ever elusive and never ending ladder of success, which a select few manage to reach the very top. Paul has without a doubt been conquering the dance music lovers hearts all these years. 

 The year 2023 is a very special one for Paul as he reaches a very significant milestone in his career: thirty years of involvement in the scene! Thirty glorious years of djing, producing and in general honing his craft! To celebrate this marvelous occasion he has sat down, reflecting on his past and has selected thirty of his most special and defining works of aural art to share with us on his forthcoming new album "30 Years A DJ". I am very pleased to have had the honor to listen and therefore devour the whole album from start to finish. Immerse yourselves into a wondrous, spellbinding journey through sound, orchestrated by Paul himself as he sees fit. 

CD1:

A perfect introduction to the musical domain of "Paul Sawyer" is his own production "Stay Around", an emotive, riveting enriched tune filled with melodic goodness, proggy grooves and one of those deep feelings, enriched by an Adele-like female vocal excellence. Each tune follows the pace accordingly, adding its own flavor and ethereal note to the musical experience at hand. Paul features thrilling remixes of his own creations such as "Zeus (Tripswitch Remix)", "Nemesis (Nick Muir Remix)", "Hermes (Black8 Remix)", exclusive collaborations with artists such as "Sunscreem" on "Perfect Motion" and the illustrious singer/songwriter "Jan Johnston" on "One Step Beyond". He fills in the blanks with his own productions such as "Quora" and his own remixes including "Midnight On The Damavand-GuyRo", "Shade-Valleraphon feat. Dashoda", finishing off with the spiritual, healing vibes of his amazing take on the 90's vocal tune "And Then The Rain Falls-Blue Amazon". A spellbinding blend of tunes to amaze and delight the senses!

CD2:

This disc begins with Paul's tune "Endless Path", an adventurous track sporting, tech-infused grooves with an essence of mystery throughout it all. The theme continues with another of his own productions, the mystical and vibrant "Meridian" alongside hit remixes by himself on tracks such as "Forever-Lostly feat. Katherine Amy", "I Want You Here-Solarstone feat. Thea Riley", the re-energized remix of "Monster In Me-Paul Oakenfold feat. Allison Kaplan", "Falling Down-Darkersound feat. ALNA"and the witty "Life-Stormshaker feat. Stephen Biddle". A killer deep and proggy collaboration called "Reverie" between himself, ascending hero "Danny Stubbs" with the always enthralling singer/songwriter "Susie Ledge" and his very own "Riotous", screaming with progressive house goodness, inverted rhythms and grooves reminiscent of the classic days of dance. A nod to the legendary synthesizers of old. Excellent way to seal the deal!

CD3:

What more to expect when one's heart and soul is already content with the musical pleasure we already experienced on the previous discs. "Cacus" welcomes us aboard for the final chapter of the journey, another original from Paul, boasting dark rhythms, dramatic twists and distorted synths of a haunting nature. Perfect for those early hours of madness on the dance floor. Strobe light galore! The vibe continues with another of Paul's tunes "Neptune" dedicated to the sea God of old Greek myths which perfectly captures life in the long lost kingdom under the sea! His remixes are also present here such as "Solar Warde-William Medagli, Thallulah and Shemsu" alongside originals "Reign", "Textured Dream", "Hercules" plus exciting collabs such as the wonderful "The Wave (feat. Laura Welle)", packing breathtaking melodies and a mesmerizing vocal performance by Laura herself, "Where Do We Go (with Damien Spencer)" and of course an absolute divine remix work on his own tunes by upcoming star "ZOYA" on "Burning (feat. Laura Welle)" and "08Pulse" on his most memorable tune with the wondrous singer/songwriter "Ana Be" on "Waiting All My Life", which receives a total makeover, taking us all on an emotional almost acoustic and orchestral experience. A fitting end to this third disc and finale for the album itself.

 What an aural journey through years of experiences, emotions, audio harnessing and surreal craftsmanship! So much love and passion has gone into this album. All this is evident through the exquisite and diverse selection of these thirty tracks! Do not waste any time at all! Grab this for your collection! 

Label: Krafted Underground

https://www.beatport.com/release/paul-sawyer-30-years-a-dj/3941327 

AN93-Icebreaker [Coldharbour Black]

 

It is always great to discover new releases every month especially when there have been so many cool tunes already this year. One can never have enough music, being the dance music fiends that we are, we devour each amazing tune out there, eagerly awaiting the next! Here it is! 

Lithuanian artist Andrej Anskinas, widely known under his artist name "Anske", is one of those artists that continue to evolve and thrive in the scene, each tune he unleashes more beautiful than the next. He recently delighted us with the birth of a new alias he dubbed "AN93" which showcases his ties to a techier, darker side, an alter ego if you will. His previous single under this alias "Spacewarp", was greeted with much admiration when released on "Coldharbour Recordings" sub-label "Coldharbour Black". Now he is back once more on "Markus Schulz's" beloved imprint with the uber cool tune "Icrebreaker".

 High energy kicks, a hyped up percussion and a supercharged rhythm unfolds from early on. Dark grooves burst out into the open, while a semi-distorted synth takes control, engulfing it all like a dark, threatening cloud. The brief break arrives in due time, bringing with it moments of a temporary tranquility right before a rare transformation occurs. What was once peaceful and tranquil like serene, frozen waters, now becomes a tidal wave of a savage and aggressive power like the wrath of mother nature herself. The build is relentless, toying with our senses making us crave every beat while we find ourselves helplessly dancing in a feverish state!

 Huge release by "Anske" that will shatter the dance floors like a double headed axe through a frozen lake!

Released: 10/3.2023

Label: Coldharbour Black  

https://www.beatport.com/release/icebreaker/4043678 

Exclusive Interview with Steve Dekay!

Over the last years Latin America has been providing the dance music world with some of the most consistent, versatile and talented artists out there. From "Hernan Cattaneo" to "Heatbeat" and "KhoMha", all of them attain the raw talent, motivation and love for the music they played. No surprise they all elevated themselves in the dance music cosmos and continue the gradual ascent to further success! Another talented artist to emerge onto the aforementioned scene comes to us from Colombia. 

 Steven Rengifo is known in the world of dance music under his artist name "Steve Dekay". A producer of undeniable talent, Steve has found success in the field under his own brand name and his alter ego "Skender", one suited for the darker, techier sound he has ushered into the world. His creations have found a home on esteemed labels such as "Critical State", "Universal Nation", "Who's Afraid Of 138?", "Suanda", "Future Sound Of Egypt" and "Coldharbour Recordings" among many others. An artist who lives for his craft and continues to push the boundaries of his sound, a fact that can easily be seen in his body of work and pesky bootlegs of favorite tracks of yesteryear. Aside from his production abilities, Steve has conquered the populous' hearts while gaining a loyal following over the years as a prominent DJ as well. His terrific past performances lead him to a wondrous European tour in 2023 through some of clubland's finest landmarks such as "Ibiza", "Prague", "Madrid" and "Zurich". 

 Following his career over the years, it was only natural that I would like to have the honor to conduct an exclusive interview with him for "MusicTalk15". Fate intervened and I was delighted to not only make an imminent to "Prague" in "The Czech Republic", a city of amazing architecture and stunning beauty, but to also witness the magician in action at "Radost FX" for the mighty "TranceNation Reloaded!" So here it is, the interview I have been promising you, exclusively for your reading pleasure! Thanks for everything man!

Question 1: How did you first discover the wonderful world of dance music and what was the key factor that got you hooked?

I discovered the world of dance music when I was a kid, I remember I liked to dance with my brother, jumping in our room listening to those Trance classics.

The most beautiful thing I like of this music is the melody, it is everything!

Question 2: You certainly have a unique artist name. Could you please share the story behind its inception? 

"Steve Dekay" is a project I started in 2014 approximately, all my music skills are completely empyrical. I remember I watched a lot of tutorials and read some forums about how to make dance music. So in 2015 was when I started this project professionally and focused in Trance and Progressive music.

Actually I'm working on Techno music too, using some Trance elements, like melodies etc.

Question 3: You have been working in the studio feverishly, producing loads of new music. What inspires you to create such special tracks and are any of them inspired by real life events or personal experiences?

The inspiration comes from random moments in my life, it could be by listening to other genres, a movie etc. But it also comes from some personal experiences like visiting new cities or countries, meeting new cultures etc.

Question 4: We certainly are aware of your tremendous productions under your main artist name. Really been loving your work under your alter ego “Skender” as well. What is the significance behind it and what led you to conjure up an alias?

As I said before, under "Steve Dekay" I make Trance music, but actually I'm working on more Techno tunes, that's the reason I wanted to create a new alias focused like 'in a dark side' of dance music, in this case with Techno, Melodic Techno. I like Techno very melodic but also dark and harder too. That's what I'm currently working on.

Question 5: You recently came back from your first European tour which included several gigs in Ibiza, Madrid and Prague amongst others. How did you enjoy the whole process and experience and how did it feel to connect with your fans from all over the world?

These experiences were really GREAT! Because I met new people, new places, new cultures and the most important thing, I enjoyed my music with different crowds, every crowd with its passion for music, so every crowd is different and very special, so it's something that will surely remain in my memories.

Question 6: Speaking of recent events your explosive performance in Prague for “TranceNation Reloaded” was a huge success! As one being there I certainly witnessed the crowd loving it and devouring tune after tune. How did you enjoy the event and the marvelous city of Prague in general?

That event was really good! I love the 'intimate' clubs where you are very close to the fans, where you can feel that heat from the crowd, so yes it was really good!

And the city, wow, it's just beautiful! I hope to be there again soon!

Question 7: One of the tunes that stood out for me and the rest of the audience during your performance at “TranceNation” was your remix of the beloved tune “Played-A-Live” by “Safri-Duo”. Are there any plans for an official release in the near future?

I love that remix, it got a really good reaction every place I played this tune and yeah I'm working to release it as an official release soon! :D

Question 8: The latest fashion over the last years is reinventing classic tunes from the distant past. Is there a certain track or tracks that you would like to remix to your heart’s content and for what reason?

There are some classic tracks I always wanted to make my own remix of, like "Home" by "Paul van Dyk & Johnny McDaid", this track is pure gold! The melody, the drums, the vocals! It's just a beautiful tune!

Question 9: Aside from your musical interests do you perhaps have any hobbies or favorite pass times?

I'm a football lover haha so yeah I like watching it and playing it too and also working out.

Question 10: Are you a fan of a specific movie or series? If so have you ever considered remixing music from it or creating a track in tribute to it?

I like series about thriller, time travel and about the universe, I'm a big fan of the movies or series and I want to create my own version of 'Interstellar' the main theme, this melody is epic, one of the best melodies I've ever heard!

Question 11: Do you enjoy traveling and discovering new cities, experiencing the culture and all? Which has been your favorite destination so far and where would you like to visit next?

Very difficult to choose to be honest. But Ibiza is magic, every place is beautiful and the connection with music is really great!

I'd like to visit Amsterdam and the UK, to make my debut there would be really good! But there are more places I'd like to play.

Question 12: What surprises can we expect from you in the near future that you would like to share with us?

Good music! More Trance music, vocal Trance, Melodic Techno and dark-harder Techno :D haha

 

 

Vince Blakk-The Continuum Space Rave Project [Tecnomind Uplifting]

 

"Vince Blakk" is back! 2023 already seems to be mighty promising for this talented artist as he releases a killer new release on "Tecnomind Uplifting". His new single is aptly titled "The Continuum Space Rave Project", a vibrant tune of epic proportions, an ode to the enchanting, miraculous universe we are just a small, insignificant part of! 

 Pumping beats are unleashed with seamless vigor from the mere moment of pressing play. Reversed effects, thumping basslines and uplifting trance synths are all present here, making our adrenaline rush. Mesmerizing melodies follow, playing a game of hide and seek between the intricately action packed atmosphere at hand. Magnificent, intriguing melodies arrive in the break of the tune, invoking the essence of humanity's constant search for answers and thirst for knowledge of what lays out there. All this is fused quite fittingly with a breakbeat attitude before returning the track to its former hyped up nature. Adventurous leads join the dance and the exciting yet perilous journey through the deepest depths of space continues. It may be filled with obstacles, hidden dangers and unpredictable encounters but our everlasting spirit, the love of conquest and the enthralling voyage of discovery of new worlds fuels us furthermore. 

 Seeking the next upbeat, riveting, space oriented track to brighten up your sets and move the masses? Call off the search, you have just found it! Another glorious one for "Vince Blakk".

Released: 3/2/2023

Label: Tecnomind Uplifting    

https://www.beatport.com/release/the-continuum-space-rave-project/3976459