Category Archives: Trance

To say good riddance to 2020, and ring in 2021 with a bang, Tomorrowland is hosting their New Years Eve event. With a jam-packed lineup (which is explored here), were more than excited. One of the performers is techno queenCharlotte de Witte, who is a staple of all the Tomorrowland events, and we know shes going to bring the (virtual) roof down with her set, but what can we expect from it?

Right off the bat, we can tell you that Charlotte is going to excite and delight fans with unreleased and exclusive music, giving us a taste of what her 2021 releases will sound like. Always bringing the techno set to a new height, if youve ever seen her perform at Tomorrowland you know that her sets are insane, and just because this edition is virtual does not mean that it will be any different. Speaking of the set, she said the following:

Im expecting Tomorrowland to take things to the next level its going to be even more impressive and detailed. Its a great way to connect people and I really like the fact that Tomorrowland always incorporates lots of nature effects, this always brings something magical together with the music. I want to tell a very good story and represent the music that I stand for. Im playing some exclusive tracks and unreleased stuff techno music with some trance influences. Its going to be a high energy set, its New Years Eve and people want to party I hope they will go crazy!

In a teaser video that you can watch below of the behind the scenes of her recording her set, we can tell that its going to be fast-paced, energetic and totally encapsulating. This Charlotte de Witte Tomorrowland set is surely going to be one of her best of all time. Watch the video below, buy your tickets here and get ready for a massive adventure as we ring in the new year.

Image credit: Tomorrowland (via Facebook)

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Charlotte de Witte Tomorrowland New Year's Eve: what to expect - We Rave You

Since 2018,Ferry Corstenhas been using his UNITY project to "bridge the gap" in trance music by collaborating with other major artists such asPaul Oakenfold and Ilan Bluestone, among others. With his latest endeavor, he's enlisted the help of his loyal fanbase to create a song that promotes togetherness. After selecting the winners, Corsten and 22 of his fans have released their collaborative effort "Free."

"Free" is an optimistic trance ballad that allows each of the chosen collaborators from all across the globe to implement their diverse array of skills. Though Ferry Corsten's voice is still present, there is a unique blend of sounds that poke through over the course of the song. This project is nothing short of ambitious and Corsten executed his vision perfectly with the help of numerous talented individuals.

Proceeds for "Free" are being donated to the World Health Organization (WHO). You can listen to "Free" below.

Facebook: facebook.com/FerryCorstenTwitter: twitter.com/FerryCorstenInstagram: instagram.com/ferrycorstenSpotify: spoti.fi/37EiQHg

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Ferry Corsten Collaborated With 22 of His Fans to Produce His New Trance Single, "Free" - EDM.com

In keeping with annual tradition, the legendary trance phenom Armin van Buuren has just dropped his anticipated A State Of Trance Year Mix 2020. The Armada Music staple releases every December and has become a label mainstay.

From the likes of Armin van Buuren, Rising Star, Above & Beyond, Markus Schulz, Gareth Emery, ALPHA 9, Ferry Corsten, Orjan Nilsen, MaRLo, AVIRA, ARTY, Mark Sixma, and a plethora of others, the ASOT Year Mix 2020 features tracks from the biggest trance labels of the year and countless signed to Armada Music and its sub-labels.

Side 1

1. Intro

2. Gareth Emery & NASH feat. Linney Yesterday

3. Maryn & Joel Freck Dawn

4. Solarstone Seven Cities (Tom Staar Remix)

5. Armin van Buuren & AVIRA Illusion

6. Super8 & Tab feat. Jess Ball Live For Tonight

7. Steve Brian & Patrik Humann Jupiter Boulevard (Taylor Torrence Remix)

8. Armin van Buuren & Brennan Heart feat.Andreas Moe All On Me

9. Armin van Buuren & Fatum Punisher

10. Genix Zuul

11. Elysian Beyond The Comfort Zone

12. Elysian Water

13. Above & Beyond Blue Monday

14. Armin van Buuren & Blasterjaxx Tarzan

15. Gareth Emery Welcome To Your Life (Jeremy Vancaulart Remix)

16. 3LAU feat. XIRA Tokyo (Fatum Remix)

17. Assaf & Cassandra Grey Lost At Sea

18. Scorz feat. Diana Leah Come To Life

19. Assaf feat. Nathan Nicholson Lost Souls (AVIRA Remix)

20. Alex Sonata & TheRio feat. Gid Sedgwick Awakening

21. Maor Levi feat. Nyla One Love

22. Omnia Generation

23. Luke Bond feat. Sarah de Warren Walk Away

24. i_o In My Head (Part II)

25. ALPHA 9 Everywhere I Go

26. Orjan Nilsen Sankthansaften

27. Armin van Buuren & AVIRA feat.Sam Martin Mask

28. Armin van Buuren feat. Sharon Den Adel In And Out Of Love (ilan Bluestone & Maor Levi Remix)

29. Andrew Rayel & Olivia Sebastianelli Everything Everything

30. STANDERWICK feat. Linney What About Us

31. Armin van Buuren feat. Jake Reese Need You Now

32. BT & Emma Hewitt No Warning Lights (ALPHA 9 Remix)

33. Rodg Crossroads

34. ReOrder & Jordan Tobias feat. Alexis Naylor After Tomorrow

35. Taylor Torrence feat. Natalie Major If We Say Goodbye

36. MaRLo & HALIENE Say Hello

37. Armin van Buuren & AVIRA feat. Be No Rain Hollow

38. Above & Beyond feat. Zo Johnston Reverie (Above & Beyond Club Mix)

39. Armin van Buuren & Nicky Romero feat.Ifimay I Need You To Know

40. NWYR Heart Eyes

41. GXD & Elle Vee Sail

42. Above & Beyond Diving Out Of Love

43. ARTY x NK Who Am I

44. Ferry Corsten Punk (Tom Staar Remix)

45. Mark Sixma pres. M6 Never Forgotten

46. Protoculture Go

47. Armin van Buuren Let The Music Guide You (ASOT 950 Anthem) [Beatsole Remix]

48. Cosmic Gate & Andrew Bayer The Launch

49. Cosmic Gate Your Mind

50. Lifelike & Kris Menace Discopolis 2.0 (MEDUZA Remix)

51. Matt Fax Could This Be

52. Kasablanca Alive

53. Ferry Corsten feat. Lovlee Our Moon

54. Gareth Emery feat. Annabel Youll Be OK

55. Armin van Buuren & MaRLo feat.Mila Josef This I Vow

56. Markus Schulz Sunrise Over The Bay

Side 2

57. Ferry Corsten & Ciaran McAuley Mo Chara

58. Super8 & Tab and Christina Novelli Rooftops (Maarten de Jong Remix)

59. Ciaran McAuley Our Journey (TFSFX Anthem)

60. Paul van Dyk & Bo Bruce Covered In Gold (PvD Club Mix)

61. Alexander Popov & Attila Syah feat. Natalie Gioia Nothing Is Over (Roman Messer Remix)

62. James Dymond & Linney What Have I Got To Lose

63. Roger Shah & Kristina Sky feat. Emma Shaffer Take Me Back

64. Jase Thirlwall feat. Victoriya Drowning

65. Davey Asprey & Roman Messer Oblivion

66. Paul van Dyk & Will Atkinson Awakening

67. Andrew Rayel & Roxanne Emery Never Going Down (Richard Durand Remix)

68. ReOrder feat. Bo Bruce We Are The World

69. DJ T.H. Leonie (Beatsole Remix)

70. Roman Messer & Twin View with Christian Burns Dancing In The Dark (Alex M.O.R.P.H. Remix)

71. Jorn van Deynhoven & Sue McLaren I Need Your Lovin (Like The Sunshine)

72. Alessandra Roncone What Makes You Feel Alive

73. Philippe El Sisi & Omar Sherif The Phoenix (FSOE 650 Anthem)

74. Factor B Bravo

75. Robbie Seed & That Girl My Remedy

76. Armin van Buuren pres. Rising Star feat. Cari The Voice

77. Matys & CJ Stone Silent Waves (Vinny DeGeorge Remix)

78. ilan Bluestone pres. Stoneblue feat. Emma Hewitt Hypnotized

79. Craig Connelly & Siskin All For Love (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)

80. Ciaran McAuley & Susana Daring To Love

81. Aly & Fila vs James Dymond Wasteland

82. Craig Connelly feat. Tara Louise Time Machine

83. HALIENE Walk Through Walls (Markus Schulz Remix)

84. Elevven One Last Time (Roman Messer Remix)

85. Giuseppe Ottaviani & Lucid Blue I Believe

86. Giuseppe Ottaviani Till We Meet Again

87. Andrew Rayel & Robbie Seed feat. That Girl Stars Collide

88. Graham Bell & SIVAN The Sound Of Letting Go (Tribute To Yotam)

89. Aly & Fila with Plumb Somebody Loves You

90. Nicholas Gunn feat. Alina Renae Fallen (Richard Durand Remix)

91. Will Atkinson Telescope

92. Allen Watts & Roman Messer Skyline

93. Ruben de Ronde feat. EKE Wanderlust (Eugenio Tokarev Remix)

94. Allen Watts feat. Gid Sedgwick Another You

95. Ashley Wallbridge feat. Evan Henzi Still Alive

96. Ronski Speed & DJ T.H. pres.Sun Decade feat. Ben Lost Downfall

The rest is here:

Anticipated A State Of Trance Year Mix 2020 by Armin van Buuren Has Arrived - The Nocturnal Times

Afternoons producer Jacob Pittolo has undergone a life transformation courtesy of hypnotherapist Mark Stephens.

Mark uses his hypnosis techniques to help people break their bad habits and lose weight, with Ben Fordham among his happy clients.

Now therell be no more dipping into the 2GB biscuit tin for Jacob, who has now traded his beloved Arnotts assorted creams for Joe Hildebrands favourite snack, bananas.

Off-air, Mark showed Jacob how to use his new app Mindfree, which helps users visualise their vice disappearing.

Jacob doesn't need the biscuit, doesn't want the biscuit, won't have the biscuit...

Now Jacob has to visualise a "negative anchor" - gross things to associate the biscuit with

Back at the mic, Jacob confirmed his biscuit desire is gone.

All hypnosis is self-hypnosis, Mark told Joe.

Even though Im doing the hypnosis, theyre learning how to put themselves in a positive trance.

Click PLAY below to hear the full segment.

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Afternoons producer banished from the biscuit tin with some hypnotic help - 2GB

When it comes to discovering the latest hot new electronic dance music, there certainly are two major points which can make quite a difference. Firstly, you need to be able to recognise great new tracks and producers, and secondly you need to be able to identify the latest sounds and styles in this field. There are those artists that have just one or two great songs, who fade into obscurity with barely any fanfare and then theres the artists that have been playing out for years and who have built up a huge following, thanks to the internet. This article will list some of the latest hot new electronic dance music, which is making its way through the club circuit and doing good at the moment.

Its not known where the new hot new thing will emerge from next, with so many producers starting to come up with fresh ideas and sounds every week. One DJ that has emerged as a major talent in recent times is Disclosure, whose singles Dont Play These Games andShelter, are currently enjoying huge radio play on the likes of Radio 1. They have also made their debut in the charts with their debut album Modern Day, which climbed to No 1 in the U.K., becoming the first dance record to achieve such a feat. Disclosure is one of the most popular new names in the dance music scene and they continue to impress with new song I Decade featuring Disclosure and Rihanna and their massive hit We Will Rock.

One of the most exciting new names in the electronic music scene is London based artist/ DJs/ Producer Ben Shemen and his duo of producers Labian and Rokstone. Labian and Rokstone first appeared as a duo in the late 90s and have gone on to become one of the most popular UK dance label creations ever. They have remixed a wide range of artists including David Guetta, JLS and Chromeo and their style and creativity has been described as artsy techno music, with elements of pop and jungle; its this style of music that has helped them gain a reputation for being the go to guys for up and coming talent. Their incredible sense of mixing and playing has made them stand out from other producers and they have even formed their own label Tech Recordings to promote their singles and albums further.

One of the biggest and most popular names in the electronic dance music scene is Throkinator. They have been described by some critics as dancing with the future and their single Wake Me Up has become one of the most downloaded singles on UK dance stations. With a sound that is similar to that of a piano and some vocals thrown in the mix, it is no surprise that Throkinator have already begun work on their sophomore album. If their first album Love In Speed was any indication of the type of quality that await us with their follow up, then we should expect something amazing from them. With the style and talent of artists such as Throkinator, it is hard to imagine anyone saying that trance-like beats and soft vocals will not only stay for another couple of years, but that trance like music will still be around when the stars come out.

Another big name in the new hot new music scene is Kodeezy. After producing and DJing for some of the biggest names in house in recent years, Kodeezy managed to get his name back in the headlines. Although he didnt manage to land them with the same track, his performances at DJ World London and other award ceremonies have impressed many music fans. Expectations are high for Kodeezy this year as he aims to challenge himself and push himself on every track he plays this season. One of the strongest influences on his music is none other than Disclosure, with whom he shares a similar sense of popularity, both artistically speaking.

This DJ has been at the forefront of pushing the forward progression of new hot new music for many years. This is apparent on his massive record label contract with Cash Money, and his ability to push new music to the top of the charts across the globe. It is expected that he will continue to push new music in the coming months, following his fantastic performance at the Tomorrow Festival in Japan. He will also be bringing his unique brand of uplifting jungle and soulful bass music to Belgium for the first time ever in March.

The next name on the list is the legendary Los Angeles DJ and producer David Gutta. Born in Southern California, Gutta has made a name for himself as one of the most innovative and talented new generation of DJs in the industry. Most of his music is based around deep jungle and reggae sounds, however this year he has decided to branch out and try and make some mainstream hits. Expect a massive amount of new hot new tracks from him this year, as he tries to push the borders of his genre further into the mainstream.

Last but certainly not least on the list for the best and brightest new hot new dj for the year is the man known as Alex Goad. Also from Los Angeles, Goad has built a reputation as one of the worlds most accomplished and sought after DJs over the past several years. He runs his own record label and has played on some of the biggest stages in the world as a result. Expect some big tunes from this performer this year as he continues to push the limits of both his music and his DJing abilities. You can expect this to be one of the most talked about DJs on the circuit for quite some time.

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3 New Artists To Watch Out For in the New Year - One EDM

by Warren Barrett, Barbara Kroon, Nancy D. Lackey Shaffer and Kimberly Rivers

Wild guess: What we all want this year (whether you celebrate the holidays or not) is to see the loved ones weve been missing lo these many months.

Something wrapped in pretty paper and tied with a bow wont make up for that. But while were waiting for better days, a thoughtful gift can help spread some holiday cheer until we can all gather again.

Supporting locally owned businesses with our last-minute gift buying is one way to share the love during these pandemic-tough times and it can be a way to prompt us to look beyond the normal gift options and find something unique. Looking for low or no-contact ways to shop? Many local gift options can be bought with a phone call, a click, curbside pickup or even a quick dash into the store.

If your shopping isnt done yet, our sales and editorial teams have come up with some ideas you might like every single one from Ventura County. Keep your dollars in your community when you can!

Warren Barrett, Sales Director

Jetboil Flash Cooking System

This thing boils water in two minutes! Its perfect for the boat, or on any camping adventure. $109.95. Real Cheap Sports, 36 W. Santa Clara St., Ventura, 805-648-3803, http://www.realcheapsports.com.

Island Packers Cruises

Painted Cave, Santa Cruz Island.

We are so lucky to have the Channel Islands National Park in our backyard. Island Packers makes it easy to access the park and they offer a bunch of different adventures like hiking, whale watching, kayaking and snorkeling. Trips start at $59. 1591 Spinnaker Drive #105B, Ventura; 3550 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard. 805-642-1393; islandpackers.com.

Somis Nut House Gourmet Gift Box

Somis Nut House Gourmet Gift Box.

They make it easy to send tasty gifts to my familymembers who live out of state. The gourmetgift box has a bit of everything. $11.89-$88.95. Somis Nut House, 4475 E. Los Angeles Ave., Somis, 805-386-1211, somisnuthouse.com.

Rosie Lee Imports

Rosie Lee Imports, Ventura.

The best selection of tea in town, and I love all the unique chocolates and candies. 673 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-643-5832, http://www.rosieleeimports.com.

Barbara Kroon, Sales Associate

Remnants on Main

Prohibition Era glass pitcher from Remnants on Main, Santa Paula.

Ive gotten cool, vintage jewelry at this antique shop in Downtown Santa Paula. I just really like the one-of-a-kind treasure hunt that cant be experienced anywhere else. Last year, I got my sister a Prohibition Era glass pitcher that is really great. 944 E. Main St., Santa Paula, 805-204-6292, http://www.remnantsonmain.com.

Sea Things

Emerald sea glass beaded necklace from Sea Things.

Ive been shopping at Sea Things for as long as its been there, which is at least 20 years. I remember going in there with my daughter Ruby when she was little. Its a great little shop for lovers of the sea! 508 E. Santa Clara St., Ventura, 805-648-1954, seathingsventura.com.

Jockamo Records

Jockamo Records in Ventura

For music lovers like me, Jockamo Records is the best. Tons of vinyl, and really music in all media and unique memorabilia too. Shopkeeper David is very kind and full of fun stories about shows and musicians. 522 E. Santa Clara St., Ventura, 805-667-8178, recordstoreday.com.

Rocket Fizz

Vinyl cling set from Rocket Fizz.

For stocking stuffers, I love the vintage candy and little toys at Rocket Fizz. One year, I bought a hilarious Dress-Up Bigfoot vinyl cling set for a gift exchange. It was a hit! 2619 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 805-987-7632; 315 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-641-1222; rocketfizz.com.

Nancy Lackey Shaffer, Arts Editor

Whyte Rabitt Fragrance Oil

Whyte Rabitt roll-on fragrance from Trance in Ojai.

Trance makes truly exceptional fragrances using minimally invasive techniques, often employing ingredients grown on its organic farm in Ojai. Whyte Rabitt is my absolute favorite both earthy and fresh, with notes of musk, jasmine and grapefruit. My sister and mom love this scent as much as I do, and its effortless to order online and ship. $36. Trance, http://www.tranceessence.com.

Goat Milk Beer Soap

Chivas Skin Care Beer Soap Set.

Goat milk is packed with vitamins and triglycerides and has a pH level closer to human skin, making it wonderfully moisturizing and gentle when used in skin care products, and particularly good for sensitive skin. I like all of Fillmore-based Chivas products, but the Beer Soap line is very versatile. The scents are pleasant without being cloying, pungent or flowery perfect for everyone! The addition of beer makes this soap good at exfoliating, fighting acne, tightening and firming. $40 for a pack of four 4 oz. bars. 805-727-3121, http://www.chivasskincare.com.

Toys, crafts and novelties from Santa Paula Art Museum

Art museums are great places to find cool, unusual gifts toys in particular! Puzzles, playing cards, funky paper dolls, portable crafting kits . . . If youre shopping for a kid and thinking beyond Barbies and LEGOs, there are some fun options here. Good ideas for playful grown-ups, too. You can order online for pickup, or shop in the store by appointment. $4-$37. Santa Paula Art Museum, 117 N. Tenth St., Santa Paula, 805-525-5554, santapaulaartmuseum.square.site.

Handmade Chocolates

Chocolate candy canes from Top This Chocolates in Ventura.

I am recommending my two favorite local chocolatiers, because I hate the idea of having to choose. Gorgeous, gourmet Ex Voto has the prettiest bonbons and some of the most sophisticated flavor combinations. Top This Chocolate specializes in molded chocolate (the candy canes are adorable), chocolate-covered Oreos and customizable chocolate bars youll have a blast picking out your toppings and watching staff put it together. Both make it easy to shop online and ship, but you might grab a mask and pop in . . . just to consider all your options.

Ex Voto Chocolates and Confections, 2646 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-667-9228, http://www.exvotochocolates.com.

Top This Chocolate, 1559 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 109, Ventura Harbor, 805-535-4167, topthischocolate.com.

Wilder Gin

Wilder Gin from Ventura Spirits Company.

Ventura Spirits Company distills, ages and bottles brandy, vodka and other craft spirits using mostly locally sourced ingredients. Im partial to the Wilder Gin, flavored with wild-harvested native botanicals, including purple sage, bay leaf and Pixie mandarin peel. Its flavor has been likened to a hike in the Ojai Valley after a rain. Herbaceous, fresh and available for pickup from the facility on Ventura Avenue or shipped anywhere in California. $35. Ventura Spirits Company, 3891 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura, 805-232-4313, venturaspirits.com.

Kimberly Rivers, Staff Reporter

Salzers

Music and pop-culture lovers of all ages will find all manner of treasures at Salzers CDs, movies, records, lunch boxes and fun figurines to adorn the work or classroom at-home office setting. To ensure a safe shopping experience for all, Salzers has a staff member at the door making sure everyone is masked and offering a dollop of hand sanitizer. If youd rather not browse the aisles, just opt for a gift card. Salzers Records, 5777 Valentine Road, Ventura, 805-639-2160, http://www.salzers.com.

Artsy Glasses

Artist-designed glasses from The Porch Gallery in Ojai offer a fun, festive and thoughtful gift for beverage drinkers of any slant. Porch will pack and ship your gift, along with a fabulous mint julep recipe and a handwritten card. Designs include an Ojai-centric option by Sam Hamann and a Collins glass with a horse drawing by Katie Van Horne. $15 and up. The Porch Gallery, 310 E. Matilija Ave., Ojai, 805-620-7589, http://www.porchgalleryojai.com.

CSA Produce Box

An example of a Summer CSA Box from The Abundant Table.

Ventura County is blessed to have several thriving Community Supported Agriculture options for fresh, locally grown produce delivered to our doors. For $120, you can send someone four weekly deliveries courtesy of the Abundant Table. (Note: they take a break in December, so deliveries will start up in January.) Farmivore can ship certain items out of the area via UPS. This is a totally contactless shopping option you can set up online or via phone.

The Abundant Table, 1012 W. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, 888-707-6513, theabundanttable.org.

Farmivore, Camarillo, 805-585-8968, farmivore.farm.

Zero-Waste Products

Zero-waste products and more are available from The Refill Shoppe in Ventura.

Reduce the waste stream in home cleaning and body care products and keep your dollars in your community! You can shop in the store or on the web and select products in reusable or zero-waste containers that can be shipped to friends and family. Options include everything from shampoo and conditioner to glass cleaner and laundry soap to essential oils and even refillable dental floss. The Refill Shoppe, 363 E. Main St., Ventura, 805-765-9135 http://www.therefillshoppe.com.

Restaurant Gift Certificates

Every restaurant from fast food to four star is being plagued by the repeated pandemic shutdowns. Gift cards from your favorite spots are a perfect way to help the business owner and give a thoughtful and tasty gift to be enjoyed now with takeout or later when dining onsite is available again. Dont forget your beloved breweries, wineries and distilleries!

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A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS | Shop local and scratch off that holiday list with these staff picks - Ventura County Reporter

Sault's Untitled (Black Is) was a wide-ranging soundtrack for the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. Photo: album cover

Dec 18, 2020

Not gonna lie. There were few mega-standout albums for me in 2020, unlike last year.

2020 was hard for everyone, but in particular for musicians, who essentially lost their source of income when live concerts were canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic. They performed from home, on Zoom, or to empty venues. But it wasn't the same, of course.

The most moving music of the year (see #1) was tied to the Black Lives Matter movement, the international protests over violence against people of color at the hands of police, and the larger consideration of systemic racism in our country.

Music kept me going in 2020, as it always does. Thank you deeply to all the musicians who are our muses and inspirations and role models.

Let's count down the best of 2020, Beat Authority style:

10. Kali Uchis - Sin Miedo (del Amor y Otros Demonios)

This would be much higher if it hadn't come out just a couple weeks ago. Colombian-American Kali Uchis follows up on her breakout Isolation with another drop dead gorgeous R&B-meets-torch-song-meets-reggaeton-meets-Portishead full-length, all in Spanish to boot. Slow burn beats, lush strings, passionate vocals. Yes, please.

9. Various Artists - Lve Lve: Sao Tom & Principe Sounds (70s - 80s)

I love these compilations that take us back to a different (funky) place and time I never thought of before. This one from Bongo Joe records brings us the groove from the tiny island just off the West African Coast. When funk was blowing up here in the U.S., artists over there were giving it their own spin.

8. Lido Pimienta - Miss Colombia

I saw Lido Pimienta in Ottawa once, and her driven, almost frenetic performance blew me away. On this brilliant record, the Torontonian of Colombian decent lays majestic beats over her haunting vocals, interspersed with more traditional Colombian music.

7. Songhoy Blues - Optimisme

Songhoy Blues, from Timbuktu, is rooted in the Malian tradition of legends like Ali Farka Tour, but, man, they rock so hard, taking more modern artists like Tinariwen and Bombino in a smokin' new direction.

6. Fat Freddy's Drop - LOCK-IN

It's easy to call Fat Freddy's Drop a reggae band. But the New Zealand outfit is equal parts jazz and trance. They lock in a groove and never let go, taking you along for jams almost as long as a Fela Kuti song. But the name of the album comes from our quarantine reality. This performance in a (beautiful!) empty concert hall will transfix you. I mean really, just watch the whole thing.

5. Mulatu Astatke & Black Jesus Experience - To Know Without Knowing

Ethiopian jazz legend Mulatu Astatke can't compose or perform a wrong note. Lately, he's been collaborating with young musicians, this time with a band from the UK which includes an MC who drops timely rhymes over absolutely delicious Ethio-jazz.

4. Bad Bunny - YHLQMDLG

I dunno, maybe this should just be #1, it's so crazy good. 2020 was the year the Puerto Rican megastar crossed over and became a celebrity far beyond Spanish language media. This album is such a studied, scholarly history of reggaeton and a tribute to those who made the man with the indescribably good voice who he is. And he's funny. And he dresses incredible.

3. Keleketla! and Coldcut - Keleketla!

Keleketla! is a community arts space in Johannesburg, South Africa. British production duo Coldcut got together with musicians there and built a powerful set of afrobeat, dance, out-there jazz, and hip hop. For me, the most unheralded best release of the year.

2. Natalia Lafourcade - Un Canto por Mxico, Vol.1

Really, you could listen to this album forever. After a career making irresistible pop music, Natalia Lafourcade has dug deep into Mxico's folkloric roots for her last few albums. On this one celebrating her home province of Veracruz, she interprets traditional songs and covers her own originals in totally inventive ways. Lafourcade has grown into one of the great musicians of Latin America, and she's not even forty.

1. Sault - Untitled (Black Is) & Untitled (Rise)

How can a British collective remain a total mystery, and yet drop not one but two (!) internationally critically acclaimed albums that channel the Black Lives Matter moment so completely? Track after track of deep contemplation of race and pain and life and love, set to rich R&B, disco, jazz, and hip hop beats. I learn and feel more and more each time I listen to these albums.

Honorable mentions go to: Open Mike Eagle - Anime, Trauma, and Divorce; La Dame Blanche - Ella; Nubya Garcia - The Source; Khruangbin - Mordecai

Original post:

Beat Authority best of 2020: The year of no live music - North Country Public Radio

By late 1975, almost 10 years after theyd formed in Hanover, the Scorpions were finally on the verge of breaking out of their native Germany and becoming a truly international band. A large part of this was down to their third album, In Trance, which was a significant stepping stone between their earlier, more nave albums and their subsequent heavier sound.

Key to the albums success was the title track. A dark, psychedelic-tinged ballad with a steely backbone, it sounds like nothing they have recorded before or since. A true connoisseurs favourite, its telling that it remains in the Scorpions set-list today.

The beginnings of the song, one that has been played so many times in clubs and arenas around the world, are unusual. Meine and rhythm guitarist Rudolf Schenker came up with the idea for In Trance as they filled downtime before a gig in a church in the Belgian town of Ligneuville.

Thats correct, Schenker recalls. I already had parts of the song, but the atmosphere in that place was unbelievable. Klaus and I put everything together during the sound-check. Being in the church provided the kick for us to do something very special.

Uli is Ulrich Jon Roth, the bands flamboyant, Hendrix-obsessed lead guitarist between 1973 and 1978. Today he admits that he initially had reservations about the song.

Back then I felt it was a little too bare with one lead guitar, says Roth, who plays an uncharacteristically minimalist guitar solo on the track. I dont think of it as a solo. Its more like a change of tone. When he heard the trills and the harmonic parts, our producer, Dieter Dierks, said: Oh, this is like Debussy. It wasnt supposed to be anything flashy. I was trying to reflect the state of mind of the song.

The state of mind he refers to was provided by Klaus Meine, who wrote the lyrics: a fractured meditation on trying to control your excesses, whether physical or mental. Meine sings about taking too much on a Saturday night, before declaring: I wanna stop this life.

Schenker say that he knows exactly what was going through the singers mind when he wrote it. Its about trying to get into the middle of life not the extreme left or right, he explains. You can get stuck in a rut, doing things you dont like, over and over again. It had to do with drinking, maybe.

Both the song and the album provided a tipping point for the Scorpions. The album found them embracing tighter, more commercial arrangements. This was partly down to new producer Dieter Dierks, who would go on to help mastermind the bands long run of internationally successful albums that started in the late 70s and ran through much of the 80s.

Where Kraftwerk producer Conny Plank had given the Scorpions debut album Lonesome Crow an experimental sheen, and the band themselves had produced follow-up Fly To The Rainbow, Dierks was able to successfully bring together the two distinct halves of the band.

On one side there was Uli, who was more Hendrix-orientated, and on the other were the songs by Klaus and myself, says Schenker. Dieter had a great ear, and could put the two styles together to make a very spicy sound.

In Trance also ushered in another era for the Scorpions, with the first of a number of controversial album sleeves. This one featured a scantily-clad blonde squatting over a white Stratocaster, with one of her breasts clearly visible [this wardrobe malfunction was airbrushed out on some later pressings]. As the owner of said guitar, Roth subsequently expressed his shame at the photograph though Schenker says it was Roth who actually suggested it.

It was his idea, says an unrepentant Schenker. It was a great sleeve for us. Its sexy, its mystical and above all its not brutal. Scorpions also including bassist Francis Buchholz and drummer Rudy Lenners made their debut UK appearances on the back of In Trance.

The tour included shows at both the Marquee club and The Roundhouse in London, as well as a gig at Barbarellas in Birmingham, where they were due to support fledgling punk upstarts The Damned at least until the German band took one look at the audience, got back in their cars and drove off.

Amusingly, Schenker recalls even stranger scenes at Liverpools famous Cavern club on the same tour, where drunken fans urinated on the PA.

We had never seen anything like it, he says. We didnt come on stage until one oclock in the morning, and some fans had been drinking all evening. They were pissing in the corners of the room, everywhere. Thankfully there was no repeat of that when the band recorded In Trances title track for the MTV Unplugged album in Athens in September 2013.

The track sees Meine duetting with Hamburg singer-songwriter Cthe, giving this version an extra vocal dimension.

Uli Jon Roth who quit the band in 1978, unhappy with the more commercial, US-friendly path they were plotting has also revived the song for shows at which he played songs from the Scorpions first five albums.

After 40 years, the man who was initially unconvinced by the song has finally come round to it. Ive really grown to like it the way we do it now, he says. We double up all of the harmonies, and it has the right kind of groove.

Original post:

In Trance by the Scorpions: the story behind the song - Louder

When you think of the trance genre, one name that certainly pops up isJorn van Deynhoven. More than 15 years of emotional melodies later, Jorn has made the decision to leave the decks behind and go back to being a co-producer and manager. This doesnt mean he is completely leaving music behind though. A State Of Trance fans will know him as a staple to the radio show and event, with him playing some incredible sets and being a special guest on the show with his The Future Is Nowalbum. Sharing his decision in a long Facebook post which can be read in full here, he details the following:

Its been almost 15 years, that Jorn van Deynhoven has been adding to and enriching the trance scene. My musical goal has always been to put a smile on peoples faces. I never wanted to reach for the stars and have always been happy with what came my way. However, thanks to all of you I did reach stars and couldnt be more grateful!

But now the time has come to make an announcement, something thats been weighing heavy on my shoulders as of lately: After 25 wonderful years in this wonderful music scene, I have come to the decision to say goodbye to the trance scene as a producer & remixer.

The reasoning behind this is, that for me my story has been told with all my productions to this date and therefore my story has come to an end. I want to musically realign and only work as co-producer and manager in the background. Just like I did before Jorn van Deynhoven.

My last single as Jorn van Deynhoven will be the single Viva La Vida from my album The Future Is Now. There will be an epic remix coming along for this one. So, stay tuned!

He will still be performing for three years, and in the third year he will go on a special goodbye tour. Stay tuned for more news of his single Viva La Vida.

Continued here:

Jorn van Deynhoven retires from DJing and producing - We Rave You

Written by Manoj Kumar R | Bengaluru | Updated: December 9, 2020 8:47:42 amTrance is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

A depressed man with god-complex, a naive girl at the edge of hell, and two men willing to die or kill for their pride, Malayalam filmmakers and actors continued to inspire respect and admiration of movie buffs with vivid, captivating and meaningful stories in 2020 as well.

Here is a list of the best Malayalam movies that released in 2020:

Ayyappanum Koshiyum: The premise of late director Sachys Ayyappanum Koshiyum is quite similar to Driving License (it was written by Sachy). Two individuals of different social and class backgrounds, who have no prior history of enmity, engage in a fight to the death feud, largely stemming from their bruised egos. But, Ayyappanum Koshiyum is ten times more entertaining than Driving License. Sachy was at his prime as a storyteller while exploring the possibilities of what happens when two men of some consequence are forced into a difficult situation, where both of them cant get out with their reputation, ego and life still intact. Ayyappanum Koshiyum signalled the arrival of a filmmaker with a great aptitude to use all the tents of mainstream cinema to make a meaningful movie with solid entertainment value.

Varane Avashyamund: Director Anoop Sathyans romantic comedy is about a modern-day girl trying to find herself a match in an old-fashioned way: matrimonial services. The film offers a lot of feel-good moments and addresses the social stigma around single older men and women trying to find love again. Also, Shobana as a single mother and hopeless romantic looks stunning in the movie. And the film also gives Suresh Gopi a memorable role after a long, long time.

Kappela: Newcomer Muhammad Musthafas Kappela had a limited release in cinema halls in Kerala in March. However, it became a huge hit and garnered positive reactions when it dropped on Netflix. The film, starring Anna Ben, Sreenath Bhasi and Roshan Mathew, showcases how unsuspecting young girls are wooed and trapped in human trafficking.

Trance: One cannot help but be thankful for having had the opportunity to experience director Anwar Rasheeds Trance in cinema halls before all things went south due to the pandemic. Vincent Vadakkans dense script is a scathing indictment of religious dogmatism that feeds off peoples fear. And Fahadh Faasil delivered one of the best performances of his career.

CU Soon: Mahesh Narayanans computer screen-based movie, which mainly plays out between three characters played by Fahadh Faasil, Roshan Mathew and Darshana Rajendran, explores how the idea of privacy has become obsolete in this age of information. And whats more, the film was entirely shot with an iPhone. Now, if thats not path-breaking in mainstream Malayalam cinema, then what is?

Halal Love Story: After his wonderful debut film Sudani from Nigeria, director Zakariya Mohammed again impressed the audience with Halal Love Story. The film is about a bunch of religious men who set out to make a movie that would fit their description of Halal, which means permissible or lawful in the Quran. And what follows is a close examination of a community which is obsessed with conservatism. And Zakariya examines it without rush or judgement.

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The best Malayalam films of 2020 - The Indian Express