Alpha 9 Releases Debut Album ‘Horizons’

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Alpha 9 Takes the Music World by Storm with New Album ‘Horizons’

Artem Stolyarov, also known as ARTY and ALPHA 9, is a well-established artist in the industry. He has played a significant role in Anjunabeats‘ success, having created some of the label’s most iconic tracks such as ‘Rebound’, ‘Kate’, ‘Before The Dawn’, and ‘Zara’ among others. His contributions have shaped the sound of the label.

ALPHA 9 is the pseudonym under which Artem Stolyarov has been able to delve into the progressive trance genre that captured his passion as a teenager. ‘New Horizons’ serves as a retrospective of the project thus far and a glimpse into its future direction.

“ALPHA 9 is my roots. and when we decided to revive the project, we knew we wanted to take it to Anjunabeats” – Artem Stolyarov

After a meticulous process of three years, ‘New Horizons’ is finally here featuring 14 original ALPHA 9 compositions. We had a chance to talk to Artem about the motivation behind some of the tracks on the album, and he shared the following insights. The new album is out now on all streaming platforms; get your first listen below!

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    Recent Trance News

    • Above & Beyond Unveil New Single ‘Quicksand’ + Announce Upcoming Album above-and-beyond-quicksand-2025-oz-edm

      Above & Beyond announces their new album ‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ and drops the first single ‘Quicksand.’ If much of the mindset and mantra behind Above & Beyond over the last quarter of a century has been born from the idea of connection, then their fifth artist album, ‘Bigger Than All Of Us,’ is best summed up in one word: reconnection. It’s been seven years since Jono Grant, Paavo Siljamäki, and Tony McGuinness released their fourth electronic album, Common Ground. A #3 on the Billboard charts – an achievement that speaks to the British band’s huge, arena-to-amphitheater scale profile in America, a level of success replicated in almost every other corner of the world. The time since has seen a series of projects come to life both collectively and individually: 2019’s ambient, yoga-and-meditation-friendly album Flow State, streamed over 400 million times worldwide; a series of club-ready instrumentals under the Tranquility Base moniker; radio records “See The End,” “Over Now” and “Crazy Love.” In the meantime, the band embarked on personal projects outside of the Above & Beyond framework. Grant collaborated with long-time friend Daren Tate on 2022’s self-titled synthwave JODA album. In 2023, Siljamäki reprised his P.O.S. alias, releasing the dance floor-focused album ‘Deeper Tales.’ Last year, McGuinness dug in his own crates for ‘Salt,’ an album based on a studio-freshened selection of emotional singer-songwriter compositions originally written as the ’90s rave and Britpop fever dreams faded. A worldwide touring schedule, their weekly Group Therapy radio show, and overseeing a family of iconic dance labels, Anjunabeats, Anjunadeep, and, most recently, Anjunachill – it’s never quiet in the world of Above & Beyond. But it’s the spirit of music uniting us all championed through their studio albums ‘Tri-State’, ‘Group Therapy,’ ‘We Are All We Need,’ and ‘Common Ground,’ that has been their most enduring appeal. Real-life stories of hope, heartbreak, and healing that bring together dance music’s biggest global community. Introducing, then, “Quicksand (Don’t Go),” the new single that is, in all the right and best ways, the comeback of Above & Beyond. The lead track from a record where the band’s power, strength, range, appeal, and adaptability is baked into the title: their fifth album is ‘Bigger Than All of Us.’ Debuted during the band’s sold-out global Group Therapy 600 broadcast in Mexico last October, it reunites Jono, Paavo, and Tony with Zoë Johnston, who is the partner in “We’re All We Need,” “Good For Me,” and “Love Is Not Enough,” among countless other favorites. “It’s classic Zoë Johnston,” explains Above & Beyond. “We’ve been working with her for 22 years, so she’s a part of the band. By that token, a song with her vocals is a very reassuring thing for our audience. It says: Above & Beyond are back, in a very recognizable form.” As Johnston describes her deeply personal but sublimely universal lyrics: “I think most of us can relate to that feeling of desperation and dread when it comes to losing someone we love so deeply. The despair can be massive when you’re watching the grief rattle down the track toward you for quite some time before the moment of impact actually happens. Disappearing into quicksand. It’s scary, it hurts, and it’s lonely. Hopefully, a song like this will make anyone going through the pain of a seismic loss feel a little bit less alone.” Above & Beyond and Zoë Johnston’s “Quicksand (Don’t Go)” arrives today, the first of several records that will see them reunite with their family of collaborators alongside some new storytellers on the album. “There are songs on here that have stood the test of time in our little world and have had a new life breathed into them by the process that we’ve adopted. But they’re classic Above & Beyond songs, and I think they speak to the huge, worldwide effect that Above & Beyond has. A worldwide meaning. A worldwide connection.” – Above & Beyond “This album is us appreciating how amazing this thing we have is. The realization of how lucky we are that we get to be part of something like this for 25 years, and to have built a community that cares for each other in the way it does. It’s not about any of us individually. When we all work together to make something happen, something bigger happens.”  – Jono, Paavo, and Tony – Above & Beyond

    • Darude’s ‘STORM 25’ Tour Set to Electrify Australia darude-hide-oz-edm-2019

      Legendary Finnish electronic artist Darude is heading to Australia for his highly anticipated ‘STORM 25’ tour, celebrating 25 years of his iconic hit “Sandstorm.” Known for his electrifying performances and timeless tracks, Darude will bring his immersive live show to Sydney, Canberra, and Brisbane, before closing out his Australian leg at Perth’s Electric Island Festival. The tour kicks off on Friday, 28 March at Home in Sydney, followed by stops at Fiction in Canberra on 4 April, and Eclipse in Brisbane on 5 April. Australian fans will experience the energy and nostalgia of Darude’s expansive career, complete with a dynamic audiovisual experience featuring stunning visuals and special effects tailored for the anniversary celebration. “Get ready for an exclusive live show experience with me performing live with special STORM 25 effects and visuals. I can’t wait,” Darude shared, promising an unforgettable journey through his decades-spanning discography. Darude (real name Toni-Ville Henrik Virtanen) has solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in the electronic dance music scene. Since the release of his chart-topping hit “Sandstorm” in 1999, which boasts over 500 million Spotify streams, he has continued to shape the sound of global dance floors. Hits like “Feel The Beat” and “Out of Control (Back for More)” further cemented his place in dance music history. Beyond his chart success, Darude represented Finland at Eurovision 2019 and performed in front of 100,000 people during Finland’s centennial independence celebrations in 2017. His recent studio album Together (2023) has been praised for its euphoric energy and powerful soundscapes. After wrapping up his Australian shows, Darude will head to Auckland for the Synthony Festival before taking his STORM 25 tour across the US, UK, and Europe. With a reputation for delivering exhilarating sets and his unmistakable sound, these performances are not to be missed. Darude STORM 25 Australia Tour Dates Fri, 28 March – Home, Sydney Fri, 4 April – Fiction, Canberra Sat, 5 April – Eclipse, Brisbane Sun, 6 April – Electric Island, Perth Tickets are on sale now. Secure your spot and be part of the celebration as Darude brings the storm to Australian shores!

    • HYPERDOME Sydney & HYPERWAVE Melbourne Reveal 2025 Lineup HYPERDOME Sydney & HYPERWAVE Melbourne Reveal 2025 Lineup

      SYMBIOTIC ANNOUNCES HYPERDOME & HYPERWAVE 2025 Symbiotic is set to deliver an electrifying double-header in 2025 with HYPERDOME and HYPERWAVE, bringing a powerhouse lineup of global trance and hard dance heavyweights to Sydney and Melbourne. Prepare for two massive nights of high-energy performances, exclusive sets, and unforgettable festival moments. Kicking off in Sydney, HYPERDOME will take over The Dome – Sydney Showground on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The following night, HYPERWAVE will hit PICA – Melbourne on Sunday, June 8, 2025, ensuring back-to-back nights of euphoric energy and relentless beats. Fans can expect three exclusive performances: Ben Nicky XTREME, delivering an unrelenting hard-edged set; ALT1, Sneijder’s hard trance alias making its Australian debut; and Darren Porter Classics Reworked, where Darren Porter breathes new life into iconic trance anthems. HYPERDOME 2025 Lineup Ben Nicky presents Xtreme Maddix Vini Vici Will Sparks Sneijder presents ALT1 Darren Porter Classics Reworked Will Atkinson HYPERWAVE 2025 Lineup Ben Nicky presents Xtreme Maddix Vini Vici Will Sparks Sneijder presents ALT1 Darren Porter Classics Reworked Will Atkinson From euphoric melodies to heart-pounding drops, each act will push the boundaries of sound, making this a must-attend event for trance and hard dance lovers alike. HYPERDOME Event Details HYPERDOME Venue: The Dome – Sydney Showground HYPERDOME Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025 Tickets are expected to sell fast—be ready to secure your tickets to HYPERDOME here! HYPERWAVE Event Details HYPERWAVE Venue: PICA, Melbourne HYPERWAVE Date: Sunday, June 8, 2025 Tickets are expected to sell fast—be ready to secure your tickets to HYPERWAVE here!

    • Dreamstate Australia to Feature Return of the Rings Production dreamstate-australia-2025-feature

      Dreamstate Australia, the nation’s premier trance music festival, is gearing up for an unforgettable return in 2025, featuring an extraordinary lineup and groundbreaking production elements designed to captivate audiences. Scheduled for Saturday, 8th February at Sydney Showground in Sydney, and Sunday 9th February at Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne, this year’s festival will push the boundaries of live music experiences. Highlighting its commitment to innovation, Dreamstate Melbourne will debut a custom-designed techno stage, delivering a unique and immersive experience tailored to its audience. The Melbourne audience will also be treated to festival’s iconic rings, adding a new dimension of production depth and visual attraction that promises to elevate the event’s status as a global music phenomenon Dreamstate 2025 will showcase a mix of the world’s biggest electronic music artists and rising stars, representing the diverse spectrum of trance and techno. Artists include: Above & Beyond, celebrated worldwide for their euphoric soundscapes and emotionally resonant performances, and Reinier Zonneveld, whose live techno set promises an unparalleled energy. Hard-house and techno fans will also experience the driving ‘I Need A Boiler Room’ energy of BLK. alongside the pure passion of Billy Gillies.  Fans can also look forward to an exclusive back-to-back performance from Marlo and Ben Nicky, selecting only the finest hard trance tracks, while incorporating techno and hardstyle elements into their sets, as well as powerful sets from Nifra, NWYR, Miyuki and Avao. The lineup highlights the festival’s dedication to diversity, featuring trailblazers like Indira Paganotto and Charlie Sparks bringing underground techno to the forefront, Juliet Fox and Laura King redefining the soundscape with their artistry, and local legends Restricted and Sunset Bros representing Australian talent with signature high-energy performances. These artists, with more yet to be announced, ensure that Dreamstate 2025 will deliver an electrifying weekend. Dreamstate is renowned for its immersive atmosphere, combining breathtaking stage designs and cutting-edge visuals to create a multi-sensory experience. This year, the festival’s innovative production elements, including the debut of its iconic Rings, promise to transport attendees into an otherworldly realm of sound and light. Whether you’re a dedicated trance enthusiast or new to the genre, Dreamstate provides a welcoming atmosphere where music, unity, and community converge. Attendees can expect an event that transcends the ordinary, offering a celebration of sound and energy that’s second to none. Tickets for Dreamstate Australia 2025 are available now, and selling fast. Secure your tickets online here.

    • Armin van Buuren and W&W Unite Again on ‘Late Checkout’ armin-van-buuren-w-and-w-late-checkout-feature-oz-edm

      Armin van Buuren and powerhouse duo W&W are back together, making waves with their first collaboration in five years, ‘Late Checkout’. The long-awaited collaboration, released under Armada Music, marks their return since the explosive success of 2018’s ‘Ready To Rave’ and has already captured the hearts of festival-goers worldwide. ‘Late Checkout’ has been making the rounds on global stages for months, with Armin van Buuren and W&W testing its impact on crowds at Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland, EDC Las Vegas, and more. This anthem embodies the signature energy and intense drops both acts are celebrated for, creating a track that’s destined to set any main stage alight. With heavy beats and electrifying builds, it’s a high-powered, rave-ready anthem designed to take peak-time sets to the next level. Reflecting on the collaboration, Armin van Buuren shared, “Working with W&W again was a long time coming. The boys and I go way back, and it was so good to hit the studio together to reconnect. I’m not surprised we ended up creating such a banger and I’m sure it will keep spicing up my live sets for the foreseeable future.” After a standout summer packed with global performances, Armin has added another hit to his growing list of crowd-pleasers. W&W echoed Armin’s excitement: “Working with Armin is always a pleasure and an honor! It’s been a while since our last collab, and when he sent us the idea of this track we immediately loved it! Went back and forth working on it with him and started testing the track out, and the reactions have been really overwhelming. We’re so happy this one is finally out!” Known for their own impactful festival sets and viral remixes, W&W’s return to the studio with Armin has clearly brought the perfect storm. With ‘Late Checkout’ now unleashed, fans can expect this anthem to dominate main stages around the globe as Armin van Buuren and W&W continue to deliver the soundtracks to unforgettable nights. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2laEjOAtge4  

    Recent Progressive News

    • Sultan + Shepard 2025 Australian Tour Dates Announced Sultan + Shepard announce 2025 Australian tour dates | OZ EDM

      Electronic duo Sultan + Shepard are set to bring their melodic house and progressive sound to Australia this March for two electrifying DJ shows. Known for their high-energy sets, the duo will take the stage at Max Watts in Melbourne on Friday, 21 March, and Liberty Hall in Sydney on Saturday, 22 March, presented by Untitled Group. From a serendipitous meeting at a Montreal club in 2002, Ossama Al Sarraf and Ned Shepard have forged one of dance music’s most compelling partnerships. Their career boasts collaborations with iconic EDM artists such as Dillon Francis and Tiësto, and remixes for global superstars including Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, and Madonna. Their contributions to the electronic music scene have garnered critical acclaim, with highlights including a Grammy nomination for Best Remixed Recording (Bruno Mars’ ‘Locked Out Of Heaven’) and two Juno Award nominations for Best Dance Recording. In 2021, the duo joined Lane 8’s This Never Happened label, marking a musical rebirth shaped by raw emotion, introspection, and a renewed focus on storytelling. This transformative chapter culminates with their latest release, Circle In Time, which encapsulates their stunning trilogy of albums: Something, Everything, Forever, Now, and Endless, Dawn. Renowned for their dynamic energy, intricate production, and emotive storytelling, Sultan + Shepard continue to captivate audiences solidifying themselves as forces to be reckoned with in the progressive and melodic house space. With shows spanning the globe at festivals like Tomorrowland, Ultra, and EDC, their Australian tour promises to deliver the same electrifying magic that has cemented their reputation as one of dance music’s premier acts. Presale commences on Thursday, 23 January, at 12 PM AEDT, with general on-sale following on Friday, 24 January, at 12 PM AEDT. SULTAN + SHEPARD – 2025 AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES Fri 21 March – Max Watts, Melbourne VIC Sat 22 March – Liberty Hall, Sydney NSW  

    • Eric Prydz Announces Exclusive HOLO Melbourne Shows eric-prydz-holo-melbourne-feature-oz-edm

      Eric Prydz to play three Australian HOLO shows this December. Renowned worldwide for its unparalleled innovation and immersive visual artistry within the realm of dance music, the extraordinary HOLO show by Swedish DJ sensation Eric Prydz is poised to captivate audiences like never before. This awe-inspiring fusion of cutting-edge technology, a colossal LED screen, and 3D holographic images is set to transport you into a realm of sensory marvels, and the opportunity to experience this extraordinary blend of audio and visual enchantment is finally here. In a monumental move, Eric Prydz is unveiling his internationally acclaimed HOLO show in the southern hemisphere for the very first time. This groundbreaking experience is a testament to his artistic prowess, as he seamlessly combines the dynamic genres of progressive house and techno with an unparalleled visual feast. Eric Prydz will once again grace the stage as part of the Always Live series, redefining the live music landscape by offering fans a multi-dimensional encounter that transcends boundaries. His performances at Tomorrowland and Coachella earned him accolades as one of the most monumental closing sets of all time, and now you can be part of this breathtaking spectacle. Ticket Information The Frontier Members presale commences on Tuesday, August 29, at 10 am AEST. Not a member? Sign up for early access to tickets – www.frontiertouring.com/signup General tickets will go on sale Wednesday, August 30, at 2 pm AEST.

    • Spencer Brown Announces New Album ‘Equanimity’ + World Tour Dates spencer-brown-2023-oz-edm-feature

      Progressive mastermind Spencer Brown to return with new studio album ‘Equanimity.’ Spencer Brown is a leader in the new progressive house and techno generation. Whether it be his releases on world-class imprints such as Anjunadeep, Bedrock, Last Night on Earth, Factory93, and his burgeoning diviine imprint, through to his legendary DJ sets, Spencer Brown is an artist who’s going the extra mile to deliver an uncompromised sound and experience to his fans. The next step on Spencer’s meteoric journey is ‘Equanimity,’ Spencer Brown’s third artist album, set for release on September 29 via diviine. Following his previous albums, 2018’s ‘Illusion of Perfection’ and 2020’s ‘Stream of Consciousness,’ ‘Equanimity’ is mixed into one continuous piece and features heavyweight collaborations to be revealed soon. ‘Equanimity’ was built on the back of a difficult period for Spencer, which included the global pandemic (which canceled the majority of his 2nd album tour and income), his first breakup, the death of his grandmother, publicly coming out as gay, and grappling with his out-of-control OCD (which is a mental disease fueled by uncertainty.) “When I wasn’t thinking about these things, life looked even worse through my phone,” he says “Every day I saw a rapid-fire stream of contradictions: sugar-coated highlight reels balanced by extremism and negativity from the news, designed to game our emotions for attention. After enough nights driven by pain and uncertainty, I realized that all I can control is how I let external stimuli affect my being. At first, I tried to eliminate the things causing my day to get worse; then I realized I had to be OK with them. I had to accept difficulties and let them pass through me. During this period, a friend introduced me to the concept of equanimity, describing it as “calmness and composure, especially in a difficult situation.” This was the exact skill I had unknowingly been trying to find. But like a muscle, it takes time to engrain deep strength in the core. In reality, peace exists around us if we can stay unaffected by the noise. Written between 2019 and 2023, ‘Equanimity’ describes how I learned to be OK when external stimuli are out of my control. All we can do is work on how we react to the world around us.” He continues, “‘Equanimity’ represents the biggest period of internal growth for my psyche and maturity. Like my last albums, I mixed this album into one continuous piece. The holistic form challenged me to add an extra layer of depth and creativity to my process, ensuring that everything flows into a cohesive body. In a world driven by short-form viral content, I’ve focused my last 4 years slightly shying away from the spotlight, making sure this body of work represents my authenticity. This album takes a slow-shutter snapshot of ongoing time: from pre-pandemic, to pandemic, to post-pandemic, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.” Spencer Brown will support the release of ‘Equanimity’ with his most ambitious world tour to date. Kicking off in August, Spencer will hit the road for a jaunt through Asia before returning to the States for an extensive run of North American dates through early 2024. It’s important to note that a Spencer Brown DJ set is an entirely spontaneous and authentic music experience – no two sets will ever be the same. This is the result of Spencer living and breathing music to the point where he knows every facet of every track in his arsenal inside and out and knows how to program his sets following his audience. The tension, the ebb, and the flow to the point of dance floor explosion is a true art pained by Spencer. Select dates on the tour will feature a unique “Divine Inspirations” live show that will present the ultimate Spencer Brown experience. “It’s always been a dream to build a live production show from the ground up. I’ve worked with an army of brilliant artists to design the stage, the lights, the visuals, and the atmosphere to create a flow aligned with my music,” Brown says. “The show will truly be “live,” in that, I do not have a setlist (as usual), and the visual artists won’t either. We’ll feed off each other to create audiovisual moments unique to each night. After debuting the prototype of this show in San Francisco last year, we can’t wait to tour the revamped version in Austin, Los Angeles, and Denver to celebrate my new album, ‘Equanimity.’” We’ll close with one final thought from Spencer about the project… “In extremely difficult periods, we may not find the silver linings until time has passed. Only then can we zoom out and reflect on what the universe was trying to convey. For me, this album represents the beautiful state of tranquility I discovered after weathering the storm when the music was written. Tying it together as one piece closed this chapter of finding strength from inside, my path to Equanimity.” ‘Equanimity’ is available September 29 on diviine. Be on the lookout for the full tracklist reveal, coming soon. Spencer Brown WorldTour Dates 8/5 – Studio 338, London UK [w/ John Digweed] 8/12 – Nuzone, Taipei TW 8/13 – Zion, Ho Chi Minh City VN 8/18 – Ce La Vi, Singapore SG 8/19 – Kolour Hua Hin, Phuket TH 8/27-9/4 – Burning Man, Black Rock City NV 9/14 – The Patron Saint, Indianapolis IN 9/15 – Magic Stick, Detroit MI 9/16 – Imagine Festival, Atlanta GA 9/22 – 1015 Folsom, San Francisco CA 9/23 – The Concourse Project, Austin TX [DIVIINE INSPIRATIONS] 9/29 – TBA 9/30 – TBA 10/6 – TBA 10/7 – Soundcheck, Washington DC 10/14 – Discopussy, Las Vegas NV 10/20 – SPIN, San Diego CA 10/21 – The Vermont, Los Angeles CA [DIVIINE INSPIRATIONS] 10/27 – TBA 11/3 – Coda, Toronto ON 11/4 – Union Rooftop, Minneapolis MN 11/12 – TBA 11/15 – The Grand, Boston MA [w/ Testpilot] 11/17 – Big Night Live, Boston MA [w/ deadmau5] 11/18 – Summit,

    • Pryda Delights Fans with the Highly Anticipated Track ‘The Return’ pryda-the-return-feature-oz-edm

      Eric Prydz, under his alias Pryda, has finally unveiled ‘The Return.’ This dreamy progressive house jam marks the first Pryda track in five years and comes as a thrilling release under Eric Prydz’s esteemed house music label, Pryda Recordings. To add to the excitement, fans can also look forward to streaming another Pryda track, ‘Of Me,’ which is set to drop on July 28th. But for now, let’s dive into the mesmerising world of ‘The Return.’ The Pryda single ‘The Return’ made its first appearance in style at Eric Prydz’s breathtaking HOLO show during the Sonar Festival in Barcelona. As the crowd stood in awe, Prydz announced the forthcoming release with a stunning visual display featuring an astronaut trying to break free from a cage. The anticipation was palpable as the energetic synths set the stage for a transcendent musical experience that would transport fans into a new dimension. As ‘The Return’ finally graces our playlists, it’s clear that Prydz has once again delivered a masterpiece. The track’s pulsating beats and captivating melodies make it impossible to resist moving and grooving from start to finish. Whether you find yourself dancing alone at home, at an intimate underground club, or amidst the electrifying atmosphere of a festival, ‘The Return’ promises to elevate the energy and spirit of any setting. Now, Pryda fans can immerse themselves in the magic of ‘The Return’ by simply clicking Play on the Spotify link above. And that’s not all! The excitement continues to build as we eagerly await the arrival of ‘Of Me’ on July 28th, further proof that Eric Prydz’s creative genius knows no bounds. Stay tuned for more updates and thrilling musical journeys from this talented producer. With Pryda at the helm, there’s no doubt that the future of progressive house is brighter than ever. Let’s savor every beat, every melody, and every moment as Eric Prydz continues to grace us with his extraordinary musical gifts.

    • Above & Beyond’s Paavo Siljamäki releases debut solo album as P.O.S, ‘Deeper Tales’ Paavo-Siljamaki-oz-edm

      The culmination of a personal journey, ‘Deeper Tales’ sees Paavo reconnect with club culture, and rediscover himself, for his debut solo album as P.O.S. A celebrated musician and DJ, Paavo Siljamäki is one-third of the legendary British dance institution Above & Beyond, founders of the London-based label Anjunabeats. Double GRAMMY-nominated, RIAA Gold Certified artists, the trio have taken iconic festival stages and legendary live venues by storm, from Glastonbury, EDC, and Creamfields, to the Royal Albert Hall and Madison Square Garden. But over the past five years, Paavo grappled with a number of personal and health-related difficulties, including several battles with Covid. “Basically, I had a burnout. I just couldn’t see what I wanted to do. And after my burnout, I was like: what is dance music to me? I don’t really know even if I like it. I’ve heard – I’ve written – too many build-ups! So I thought: that’s me done,” Paavo says. Nature gave Paavo a sense of renewed purpose. It first inspired his work on Above & Beyond’s ambient album ‘Flow State’, and later drew him back onto the dance floor. “There’s no feeling of freedom like being at sea,” he adds. “When I’m sailing, I synchronize with the sunrise and sunset – we almost always get up at sunrise. So this is like being really aligned with nature. I found that, after my burnout, and Covid, I really found myself in nature. There’s something about being closer with nature that is really healing – and very inspiring.” After spending years behind the decks on stage, Paavo reflected on his experiences as a teenage rave kid, and felt compelled to dance in the heart of the crowd at the desert raves of Burning Man and clubs in Ibiza. His ‘Deeper Tales’ album embodies these recent experiences; uplifting, emotive club records with many debuted during Above & Beyond’s Group Therapy 500 and Anjunadeep Open Air L.A. celebrations last autumn. Paavo Siljamäki has already amassed over 1.5M streams on his ‘Deeper Tales’ album singles to date, with ‘Polar Bears’ peaking at #6 in the Beatport Progressive House Chart. Born in a studio jam in Los Angeles in late 2021, ‘Polar Bears’ is a collaboration with DJ, producer, and Paavo’s close friend, Spencer Brown. Paavo and Spencer’s friendship stretches back to 2014, when the budding producer caught the ear of Above & Beyond with his debut release ‘Chalice’ on Avicii’s imprint LE7ELS. The lead single from ‘Deeper Tales’ pairs P.O.S with anamē for an adaptation of ‘Lonely River’ by Kyan. UK-based Kyan Kuatois’ chart-topping discography includes collaborations with Duke Dumont on ‘Need You (100%)’ and Madeon on his 2015 hit track ‘You’re On’. Paavo recently completed his ‘Deeper Tales’ tour across North America to celebrate his latest releases as P.O.S. Shows in Toronto, Chicago, Los Angeles, and more gave fans a unique insight into Paavo’s creative identity outside of Above & Beyond. P.O.S ‘Deeper Tales’ is out now on Anjunabeats, get your first listen below! ‘Deeper Tales’ Tracklist Is It Ok? Good People Thunder & Sunshine Polar Bears Lonely River (P.O.S & anamē remix) Let You Go Not Going Back It’s Me (P.O.S Mix) For Those We Lost Tahiti Burning Sunset Coming Home We Will Get Through This

    Recent World News

    • Creamfields Unveil Monumental 2025 Lineup Creamfields-2025-lineup-featue-oz-edm

      Creamfields Returns in 2025 With Dance Music’s Biggest Stars! The countdown to one of the UK’s most iconic festivals is officially on! In just 174 days, Creamfields will return to Daresbury, Cheshire, for another unforgettable weekend of electronic music. Set to take place over the August Bank Holiday from Thursday, 21 August, to Sunday, 24 August, the 2025 edition boasts a jaw-dropping lineup featuring over 300 artists across 30 stages. Announced via social media, the star-studded bill has sent fans into a frenzy, with headliners including Anyma, David Guetta, Martin Garrix, and Vintage Culture. Festival-goers can also expect electrifying sets from the likes of Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Hardwell, Eric Prydz, and Fatboy Slim. Creamfields is renowned for delivering a diverse selection of electronic music, and this year is no exception. Techno lovers can revel in performances from heavyweights such as Amelie Lens, Adam Beyer, Patrick Topping, Jamie Jones, I Hate Models, and Boris Brejcha. Meanwhile, house music aficionados can dance to beats from John Summit, Dom Dolla, Gorgon City, Chris Stussy, and Solardo. Drum and bass fans will also be in for a treat, with legendary acts like Andy C, Chase & Status, Hybrid Minds, Dimension, and Sub Focus gracing the decks. The festival’s trance lineup is equally impressive, featuring John O’Callaghan, Cosmic Gate, Christina Novelli, and Billy Gillies, while hardstyle lovers can catch Brennan Heart, Miss K8, TNT, and Adaro. Creamfields is pulling out all the stops this year with exciting new additions, including the outdoor mega-stage HALO, The Forest Stage, and Downtown – a vibrant entertainment village offering a range of immersive activities for festival attendees. With just a limited number of tickets remaining, fans eager to be part of this legendary event should act fast. The final ticket release for Creamfields 2025 goes on sale Friday, 28 February at 9am GMT via the official website. Don’t miss out on what promises to be one of the biggest EDM festivals of the year! Creamfields 2025 Lineup

    • Dom Dolla to Make Historic Madison Square Garden Debut in 2025 miracle-maker-dom-dolla-2022-oz-edm-feature

      From the pulsating beats of underground clubs to the grandeur of Madison Square Garden, Dom Dolla is set to ascend to one of the world’s most iconic stages. The Australian DJ and producer announced this week that he will headline not one, but two back-to-back shows at the legendary venue on March 7th and 8th, 2025. This milestone cements Dom Dolla’s meteoric rise as one of the most influential names in electronic music today. Known for his infectious beats and genre-defining sound, his MSG debut is a testament not only to his incredible journey but also to the growing global prominence of house music. While Madison Square Garden has long been associated with mainstream pop and rock performances, Dom Dolla’s doubleheader highlights an exciting cultural shift. House music, once confined to niche spaces, is stepping into the spotlight, and Dolla’s upcoming shows exemplify this transformation. Dom Dolla joins an elite group of electronic music legends who have recently taken the MSG stage. Earlier this year, his Everything Always bandmate and fellow house music icon John Summit headlined a landmark show at the venue. South African house pioneer Black Coffee also made waves with his awe-inspiring performance, and the unforgettable trio of Skrillex, Fred again.., and Four Tet turned the Garden into an electrifying rave. For Dom Dolla, this moment is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a win for the entire house music community. Fans eager to witness Dom Dolla’s MSG debut can mark their calendars for Tuesday, December 10th, when pre-sale tickets go live – register for your chance to secure tickets here. With his reputation for delivering high-energy, unforgettable sets, these shows are sure to sell out fast. House music is no longer on the sidelines—it’s front and centre, and Dom Dolla is leading the charge. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic moment in electronic music.  

    • Ultra Music Festival Unveils Massive RESISTANCE Lineup for 25th Anniversary

      The 25th anniversary of Miami’s iconic Ultra Music Festival promises to be unforgettable, as RESISTANCE returns with a lineup that’s set to captivate underground music fans worldwide. Leading the charge is the highly-anticipated debut of Carl Cox’s live ‘Evolution’ show, set to close out the festival’s first-ever Carl Cox Invites stage takeover. With an electrifying lineup featuring techno icons like Adam Beyer, Richie Hawtin, Dubfire, Stephan Bodzin, Joris Voorn, and Marc Romboy, this year’s RESISTANCE MegaStructure is poised to be a paradise for electronic music enthusiasts. Carl Cox Invites: The Evolution Begins Carl Cox, an undisputed legend in the electronic scene, will headline the RESISTANCE MegaStructure with his debut ‘Evolution’ show. Known for his unparalleled skills and dynamic energy, Carl Cox’s performance is set to be a defining moment of the festival. Joining him is Adam Beyer, the Drumcode label founder whose dark, driving beats are a staple in techno’s upper echelon. Richie Hawtin will bring his innovative ‘DEX EFX X0X’ live experience to the stage, pushing the boundaries of tech and sound. Dubfire will elevate the atmosphere with his immersive ‘EVOLV’ visual show, creating a multi-sensory journey for festival-goers. Melodic techno icon Stephan Bodzin, known for blending techno with atmospheric soundscapes, will add his touch to the night, while Joris Voorn’s melodic set and Marc Romboy’s Ultra debut are expected to create unforgettable moments. The Carl Cox Invites stage takeover promises an epic showcase of techno evolution that celebrates the heart of the underground. Solomun and Diynamic Take Over In a festival first, Solomun’s Diynamic label will host an exclusive stage takeover, bringing a fresh blend of electronic music styles to Ultra’s RESISTANCE MegaStructure. Solomun himself will headline with his signature sounds and magnetic stage presence. Joining him are a selection of Diynamic’s most innovative artists, including UK experimentalist and Dutch tech-house talent Mau P, each promising a unique take on electronic music. Parisian multi-instrumentalist Chloé Caillet and French underground icon Rafael Cerato round out this dynamic lineup, bringing their distinct artistic visions to the stage. Diynamic’s takeover marks a new chapter for Ultra’s anniversary year, promising a night of eclectic sounds and pioneering performances. Unmissable Sets from Electronic Icons Techno trailblazer Charlotte de Witte is set to return to Ultra’s RESISTANCE stage, known for her hypnotic and high-energy performances that push the boundaries of the genre. After a historic Main Stage debut in 2023, Charlotte’s return to RESISTANCE is sure to elevate the festival experience. Boris Brejcha, celebrated for his unique fusion of high-tech minimal and melodic techno, brings a fresh twist to the genre with his intricate soundscapes. ARTBAT, the innovative Ukrainian duo known for their deep house and melodic techno, are ready to enchant fans with their enthralling beats and rhythms. Each artist promises to bring their own bold sound, further igniting the RESISTANCE stage. Rising Stars to Watch RESISTANCE 2025 also brings rising talents like Germany’s Kevin de Vries, whose energetic melodic techno sets have garnered international attention. Ukrainian techno sensation Korolova will captivate with her ethereal melodies and driving rhythms, while French talent Nico Moreno is ready to deliver a dark, intense performance that has become his trademark. From veteran legends to groundbreaking newcomers, Ultra’s 25th anniversary RESISTANCE lineup offers a one-of-a-kind journey through electronic music. Join the celebration and experience an epic three days of music evolution, innovation, and high-energy sound. Tickets are available now and almost sold out,  don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic event.

    • Ultra Miami Unveils Mammoth 2025 Phase 1 Lineup ultra-music-festival-2025-feature-oz-edm

      Miami’s Ultra Music Festival to celebrate 25 years with Above & Beyond, Carl Cox, Armin van Buuren and More. Ultra Music Festival has officially revealed the first phase of its 2025 lineup, marking a monumental return to Bayfront Park from March 28-30. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the festival is pulling out all the stops, unveiling a star-studded lineup that promises to be one of the most memorable in its history. Ultra Miami 2025 boasts a stacked bill of the world’s leading stars in electronic dance music, with performances locked in from many household names including Armin van Buuren, Hardwell, Above & Beyond, NERO, Martin Garrix, Tiesto and more. After a brief hiatus in 2024, Carl Cox will return to Ultra’s iconic RESISTANCE MegaStructure, where he’ll debut a brand-new live show. Techno enthusiasts can also look forward to Charlotte de Witte, Adam Bayer and Richie Hawtin, who will headline the stage with his innovative “DEX EFX X0X” production. Two of the hottest names in electronic dance music today are undoubtedly John Summit and Dom Dolla. Both tech-house titans have taken the scene by storm, amassing dedicated fanbases with their energetic sets and distinctive sounds. Summit, a beloved Miami transplant, has become a local favourite, while Dolla’s meteoric rise continues to captivate global audiences. One of the most exciting firsts for Ultra 2025 is the solo performance of Axwell on the Main Stage. Best known as a member of the legendary Swedish House Mafia, Axwell will take the stage solo, offering fans a unique chance to witness his individual artistry in action. Ultra will also make history with a world-first B2B DJ set from Deadmau5 and Pendulum, a collaboration set to electrify the crowd. Fans can also look forward to the debut of Deadmau5’s “Retro5pective” set, where the iconic DJ is expected to take a nostalgic journey through his catalogue. Pendulum, meanwhile, will deliver a live performance sure to be packed with their signature bass-heavy anthems. Ultra 2025 will also introduce its first-ever psytrance stage, curated by Vini Vici’s Alteza Records, adding a fresh dimension to the festival’s diverse offerings. As Ultra Music Festival prepares for its milestone 25th edition, fans can expect nothing less than a spectacular weekend filled with world-class performances, groundbreaking productions, and unforgettable moments. Tickets are on sale now for what promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjLkZOM7xg4  

    • EDC Thailand To Debut in 2025 edc-thailand-2024-feature-oz-edm

      EDC Thailand marks a new chapter for the electric sky, set to dazzle in just six months. EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival) is set to make its debut in Thailand, bringing its iconic festival experience to the stunning shores of Phuket. The inaugural EDC Thailand will take place on January 17, 18, and 19, 2025, at the picturesque Boat Avenue Lakefront. What began as a humble underground event in Los Angeles has grown into a global phenomenon. EDC now hosts festivals in major cities including Las Vegas, Orlando, Mexico City, Tokyo, and EDSEA, and Thailand is the latest addition to this illustrious list. Each EDC event uniquely combines top-tier electronic music, intricate light displays, massive art installations, and a profound sense of unity and love among attendees, who are affectionately known as Headliners. The announcement of EDC Thailand in early July sent waves of excitement through the EDM community. The official confirmation came via the creation of an Instagram account for the festival, with the first post stating, “Hello #EDCThailand. Hello Thailand. Stay tuned for official updates! EDCThailand.com.” Founder and CEO Pasquale Rotella had previously hinted at this new location during an interview for the EDC Las Vegas 2024 lineup announcement. He mentioned, “And then we toured around the world. I mean we’ve been to China, Thailand,” followed by a noticeable pause, realizing he had let slip this exciting news. The official dates were announced a month later, solidifying plans for the festival. “We’ve been all around the world and are excited to invite you to our next EDC chapter! Presenting #EDCThailand: Jan. 17+18+19, 2025 at Boat Avenue Lakefront, Phuket. We cannot wait to create unbelievable memories with all of YOU under the Electric Sky, Headliners!” read the post from EDC. As the countdown to January 2025 begins, fans from across the globe are eagerly making plans to attend this historic event, as reflected in the enthusiastic comments on the festival’s social media posts. The Thailand chapter promises to be a significant milestone in EDC’s storied history, offering an unforgettable experience for all attendees.