Trance music has been a beloved form of relaxation and unwinding for decades, but with so many different types of trance available it can be hard to decide which type is the best one for you.
No matter your experience level or genre, here are some key aspects to take into account when selecting the ideal track.
1. Armin van Buuren
Armin van Buuren may be the official World’s Most Popular DJ, but his passion and dedication to dance music has never wavered. This dedication has been the driving force behind his success so far.
Dutch DJ A State of Trance has been a force in electronic dance music for more than two decades, and his radio show A State of Trance has cemented him as one of the world’s most beloved figures. His innovative studio work, devotion to fans, and vibrant live shows have cemented him as one of the greatest DJs of all time.
Armin van Buuren’s music encompasses a multitude of styles and genres while still remaining true to his signature sound. He’s created numerous classic trance songs and remixes, with some of his best works becoming timeless classic anthems that have stood the test of time.
He’s released four artist albums, including ’76’ and ‘Shivers’. With over 50 awards under his belt, he continues to be one of the most influential names in music today.
Armin’s passion for trance music, whether it’s his own productions or those released through Armada Music, is evident in all his creations. He has an uncanny ability to turn even obscure tracks into timeless hits that will be played for years to come.
2. Aly & Fila
Egyptian duo Aly Amr Fathalah (aka Aly) and Fadi Wassef Naguib (aka Fila) are renowned for their uplifted, euphoric trance music. With roots in Egypt, this duo has gained a global following over time.
These DJs have been friends since childhood and share an affinity for trance music. They cite European electronic acts such as Paul Van Dyk and Chicane as major influences, along with their passion for travel and seeking out new sounds.
After falling in love with trance music genre, they started creating their own dance tracks in 1999 and began spinning at clubs. In 2002 they signed with German record label Euphonic Records and their first single, “Eye of Horus”, received widespread airplay from top DJs such as Armin van Buuren.
They’re renowned for their razor-smart productions and thunderous sounds, having performed at some of the world’s biggest clubs and festivals. Their radio show Future Sound of Egypt has become a huge success, solidifying them as one of trance music’s most beloved names.
This summer, they marked their 500th episode of their radio show with an array of events around the globe. Additionally, they hosted a stage at Tomorrowland – one of the world’s largest festivals! This was by far their biggest yet!
3. Tisto
Tisto is one of the greatest trance music artists ever. Their tunes have been a mainstay at festivals around the world for years, producing some iconic songs in the genre.
Their latest album, Just Be, continues the trend of trance musicians who have returned to its roots. Its lead single “Traffic” achieved unprecedented success; it reached number one on the Dutch singles chart!
The track’s driving synths and energetic percussion create a dancefloor anthem that will transport listeners to another realm. KSHMR makes an appearance, adding his signature high-powered synths for some extra zip.
Tisto is a well-known DJ who releases their own music as well. They have performed at numerous events and earned many accolades along the way.
Another excellent Tisto song is “Elements of Life.” The track begins with a soft instrumental and gradually blends several elements. After about one minute, the melody picks up and heavy bass takes over; these two elements remain throughout the rest of the song.
This trance track is one of the classics and one of the most beloved tracks within the genre. The bass line and melody are repeated multiple times throughout, building in intensity as you progress through it.
4. Ferry Corsten
Ferry Corsten is one of the most renowned names in trance music today. His hits and remixes have cemented him as a worldwide DJ and respected producer. Furthermore, he founded Flashover Recordings – home to some of the finest producers worldwide – with his business partner John Cooper.
Corsten was born and raised in Rotterdam, Netherlands and developed an interest in dance music from a young age. He began experimenting with computers and turntables at home, eventually producing and mixing his own tracks. Initially producing hardcore gabba tracks during the early 1990s, Corsten soon moved onto clubhouse sounds as well as trance sounds.
His first major hit came in 1999 with “Out of the Blue,” a track which reached number 20 on the UK singles chart and cemented Corsten’s reputation for melodic yet powerful twisters. Other popular songs include “Punk” and “Rock Your Body Rock.”
In addition to his solo productions, Corsten collaborated with several DJs. He was co-producer on Tiesto’s Gouryella project and remixed trance tracks by William Orbit, Faithless, Moby, and Cygnus X. Vincent de Moor collaborated with him under the moniker Veracocha; Corsten also composed music for several soundtracks including David Gleeson’s Don’t Go.
Under many guises and as part of numerous side projects, Corsten has always been a mainstay in the trance scene. He continues to produce hits as both DJ and label owner for Flashover Recordings, which has become an internationally acclaimed dance music label. A true pioneer in trance music, he continues to inspire new artists.
5. Mauro Picotto
One of the greatest names in dance music history, Mauro Picotto has sold an astounding 700+ tracks over 25 years! He tours worldwide and continues to be highly sought-after for his DJing, producing, and label work – making him an undisputed legend in electronic music who truly represents a work/life balance that many artists only dream about!
The Italian superstar began his career as a member of R.A.F and CRW before going solo, producing some iconic trance tracks in dance music history. His latest album ‘Embrace’ combines an orchestral opener with fast-paced trance tracks that sound like progressive house tunes.
Over the course of 25 years, he’s released more than 700 trance tracks and proven himself an uncompromising producer and DJ. His most recent album ‘Embrace’ is no exception – it’s packed with energy from start to finish!
This classic trance anthem, featuring tracks such as “Song of the Sun” and “No Signs Of Life”, is an absolute powerhouse. It boasts a soaring bassline, solid kicks and an epic breakdown that’ll surely leave you in awe.
This classic trance track continues to be one of the most popular today! You can get this incredible classic on vinyl from Discogs or Traxsource; plus it comes with some excellent remixes!
6. Lizard
Over the last few years, Australian band King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard has become a sensation in psychedelic music. Their eclectic repertoire of themes resonates with fans who desire their favorite bands to convey an important message.
Their stunning, psychedelic rock ‘n’ roll journey is a tale of the mystical and cosmic. It weaves through different albums and songs to form an expansive thematic landscape known as “Gizzverse.”
On this night, the band tore through some microtonal tunes from 2021’s Butterfly 3000 album with ease. Drummer Michael Cavanagh and bassist Lucas Harwood seamlessly transitioned between hard rock, funk and psychedelic jam rock while guitarists Mackenzie, Walker, and Cook Craig created an expansive sonic landscape of varying dimensions that mesmerized their audience.
This segment featured some incredible vocal work, particularly Kenny-Smith’s sax solos and flute sounds. It is undoubtedly one of the set’s highlights and an exclamatory way to conclude things.
This epic psychedelic rock ‘n’ roller takes the audience on an immersive journey into another dimension, with its narrator’s mystical narration leading to a battle against a balrog. This track has an immense epic vibe and will certainly get everyone moving with its infectious tribal beat.
It’s an epic psychedelic music classic from Spanish label Insolent Tracks on Discogs or digitally from Beatport. If you’re into trance music, we highly recommend checking out this incredible track!