EDMbiz Conference & Expo

If you have any awareness about EDM (Electronic Dance Music) as a whole, then you are aware of that three days of music, dancing, and merriment that is EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival).  In fact, this is a special year as Insomniac is celebrated 20 editions of this yearly festival.

Back in the 1990s, there was this music called "Techno", it was underground in the United States, yet really popular in Europe.  This was of course the years of pop, hip-hop/rap, rock, and the like of that era. This "techno" music was widely excepted in the LBGT clubs or those "underground" warehouses of cities.

Let's fast forward to present day, to the years of EDM as a whole blowing up in the United States as other genres embrace collaborations, and want to join what is now mainstream. The appeal for this type of music has sparked Jack U (Skrillex & Diplo plus Justin Bieber) among others. Some may even claim the Black Eyed Peas has something to do with the explosion of "new" found popularity.

It's time to connect to the EDMBiz Conference & Expo that marks just one of the events during EDC Week leading up to the big event. The line up of speakers connected to the EDM industry is fully loaded. From artist pioneers Paul Oakenfold, Markus Schulz, Moby, Armin Van Buuren, to industry leaders Pasquale Rotella, Geronimo, Dave Ralph, and many more!

Of course, the list of speakers can be found as panels or keynotes, but an impressive list nonetheless. Housed for three days at Caesar's Palace, the conference will also include exhibitors associated with the industry. Since it's inception in 2011, the conference looks to show the more intricate side by including events such as: Hackathon, & EDMBiz Song Contest.

There are ONLY 19 more days to register, plan travel arrangements, and get ready for a really great learning experience!

E.P. Review: Space E.P. by Mr. Pit

If you are follower of this blog or like trance music, you may be aware of the FIRE coming from Coldharbour Recordings. Yes, the label spearheaded by Markus Schulz. You have been introduced to other artists and tracks released by this label, but now, it is time to talk about new the tracks produced by Mr. Pit.

"Destination Kepler" has that familiar dark Coldharbour sound, but with that uplifting trance vibe. The vocals are relaxing yet invigorating, then the first drop hits. You will immediately vibe, dance, and like this track. To dive a bit deeper than just the overarching melody, the background beats are infectious even for the novice trance fan.

"Lychees" has a progressive vibe from the very first beat. However, as the track progresses, you will hear the melodies. Just like the tracks before it, the infectious progressive trance vibe will suck you in, and keep you in a relaxing state of trance. Oh, and the ending of the track is a quite refreshing.

"Space Toy" is has that building, dark, Coldharbour sound from the very beginning, and it does not end. Then the melodies begin to infiltrate your ears. The build up from each new second of the song really is the gift that keeps on giving throughout the listening experience. Take a listen for yourself:

 


It is HIGHLY recommended that you buy these tracks and spread the word to your fellow trance family. Nice work by Mr. Pit and the Coldharbour crew!

Album Review: 'Bagtown' by Nu Shooz

When you think of the genre of "Freestyle" from the 1980s, you think of Nu Shooz.  If you forgot their artist name, then you know the songs "I Can't Wait" or "Point of No Return".  If you have a TV subscription, you have heard a remixed version of "I Can't Wait" in Target commercials. You must respect that genre, and the artists to have emerged from that era. The Latin influence fused with electronic sounds can be credited with sparking the electronic dance music "movement" to an extent.

So this brings us to their "Nu" release, and as discussed months back on the Trending Topics with BB podcast, a return to the sound that they intended to release, but the history spoke for it self. 'Bagtown' influenced by their desire to create new music again and the artwork by founding member's son.  The opening and title song "Bagtown" immediately attracts you if you like the fusion of Latin styles with Jazz.  The vocals by all in this song are great.  The funky groove of  "Soul Cushion" will get your toe tapping or in another case you will be dancing along. "Your Perfect Day" is another funky song with a great vocals.

In fact, if you continue to listen to the entire album you will be finding yourself in a really good mood due to the passion that went into creating this album. From the musicianship in the horns to the vocals, to the rhythm section, this album was made for those appreciative of their craft. If you are looking for a "Nu" album to add to your collection, pick up a copy, add the album to your streaming favorites on Spotify, and simply enjoy it!


 

'Watch the World' Album Release Show at Exchange LA

The anticipation of the new artist album my Markus Schulz has been building for quite some time.  The #UnicornSlayer takes his time perfecting his craft in the studio unlike other artists. After knowing the album was to be released in April, followed by the announcement of the official release date April 29, 2016, then another announcement of the album release shows. It was clear the decision to attend one or more of these shows was a must. Not to mention the amazing acoustic versions that have been available for weeks now. 

The night began with a great set by Solid Stone that easily set the tone of what was to be a great night. You see at these events, it is about the music and enjoying it with other like minded individuals. As mentioned by the man himself on the podcast Trending Topics with BB, creating and feeding off the energy by the #SchulzArmy and #TranceFamily becomes a spiritual like experience. 

The set was FIRE from the very first note of "Watch the World" till his drop of his New World Punx track "Memories".  The #RabbitHole "surprise" was the cherry on top of a completely sundae of a night.  How can you not enjoy the music released by the Coldharbour Recordings Family right now? This label is just en fuego on so many levels! Huge shout out to the Coldharbour, Schulz Music Group, Exchange LA, and Markus for an incredible night! 

It is already known, that music brings people together, but when you agree on the music, it almost becomes an out of body experience. Having been apart of other "fan groups", there really isn't a nicer more passionate group of people than the #SchulzArmy or #TranceFamily.  The common courtesy, inclusion, and overall encouragement to have a great time throughout is certainly the best HIGH available.  Creating lasting memories through mutual love and respect of a man who had declared his devotion to music and the fans over and over, as evident by this past weekend, will continue.

Thank you to all of you who are becoming new found friends, and till the next event, PLEASE BUY not just stream 'Watch the World'.

Nice being VIP! @solidstonemusic kicking the night off! #watchtheworld #SchulzArmy #trancefamily #UnicornSlayer #Rave #Trance

A photo posted by Brooke Brown (@saxy15) on Apr 29, 2016 at 10:17pm PDT

I really like this shot of #UnicornSlayer during the #RabbitHole! Thank you for an incredible night, and congrats on your new album 'Watch the World '! #SchulzArmy #trancefamily #phoenixtrancefamily

A photo posted by Brooke Brown (@saxy15) on Apr 30, 2016 at 10:17am PDT

Artist Review: Arkham Knights

At first this was going to be a review about one or a couple of tracks from the duo Arkham Knights, but due to how much they are blowing up the trance music scene right now, an artist review is clearly the better choice.

If you are unfamiliar with Arkham Knights, it is okay, they have only been around for a year upon joining the Coldharbour Recordings family.  Before the breakdown of the tracks currently on rotation on Markus Schulz' Global DJ Broadcast as well as many trance fans playlists, it important to point out how fitting their sound of trance with a techno darker vibe is with the signature sound from the label.

Let's begin with the track "Knightfall".  From the minute you press play the intro builds, then builds more, followed by the beat and the first melody to catch your ear. The intricate beats from there add another layer to the track, and you know it is going to continue to build.  The marriage of the beats with the melody will grab a hold of you, and you are in for that trance track that you can't help but love.

"Urban Decay" is not just your average upbeat trance track that the intro presents. Once the melodies kick in, it is clear that this track is meant to be listened to in its entirety. The interlude followed by the drop of a harsher melody layered on top will lend to your enjoyment of the track.

"Blackgate" immediately begins with a driving beat to get your body moving. Then the MELODIES kick in, and you will find yourself with your hands in the air, perhaps with your eyes closed in that state of trance. The layers of beats build once again, but you know the melodies are going to return with such vigor, then they drop! Take a listen for yourself, if you haven't already done so.

Last, but certainly not least, "Legacy". The pattern of intros with such a beat and tempo to grab your attention continues. The layering of melodies kick in to get you moving once again. THEN the track really begins to build, with an intriguing melody to keep the vibe high. The melodies retain strength throughout the track along with the back beats. This recently released track on Coldharbour delights many during a set by Markus Schulz as well as those who tune into the Global DJ Broadcast weekly.

Along with other artists signed to Coldharbour, Arkham Knights is on FIRE right now, and they are just getting started. Can you imagine the tracks not yet released or thought of yet? Whether you are a long time fan of trance or new to the scene, listen then buy a couple or all of their released tracks for your auditory pleasure.

P.S. Be on the lookout for the interview/chat with Arkham Knights on the Trending Topics with BB Podcast!

Track Review: "Perfect Imperfection" by Omair Mirza Featuring Avari

First of all, as a fan of Trance music and the Coldharbour Recordings family, it is an honor to review such talent.

"Perfect Imperfection" has been played in a few sets by Markus Schulz recently, so the recent world premiere of this track on the Global DJ Broadcast did not come as a surprise. Being in the atmosphere at a recent open to close set, feeling the energy of the room, and enjoying the track with others was a treat.

The upbeat yet mysterious intro of the track followed by the vocals of Avari set the stage of a solid trance track. The melodies mixed in with the beat accompany as well as highlight the building vocals.  A great vocal trance track has a well rounded story within the lyrics, and this track does. Obviously, the entire production was met well by all involved.

Out of personal experience, the attraction to trance comes from the emotional euphoria one experiences while listening. The range of emotions felt while listening is unparalleled. "Perfect Imperfection" fulfills this as the underlying Coldhabour sound resonates. It is nice to have Omair Mirza return to the Coldharbour family with such a well produced, upbeat, and well sung track. Not excluding the international influence on trance music, but it's nice talent comes from the U.S. as well.

Looking forward to this track's release on Coldharbour Recordings on Monday March 21st! The anticipation of the accompanying music video should add to the building popularity by trance fans everywhere. This track not only deserves more than one listen, but should be added to your collection upon release!

P.S. Tune into the upcoming interview/chat with Omair Mirza & Avari on the Trending Topics with BB Podcast! 

Open to Close with Markus Schulz

As featured on Brooke M. Brown, the following is a review about the recent Open to Close set by Markus Schulz! 

Enjoy!