All posts by Tory Clinton

About Tory Clinton

Tory has been involved in the electronic music scene for nearly 9 years. He has managed nightclubs, organized nightlife promotions. Currently he DJs at various venues and clubs. In addition to being part of Schulz Army, Tory is also a regular contributor to The Scene is Dead. In his free time, you can find Tory attending electronic music shows and festivals throughout the U.S. Music is his passion!

New Music Review: Dakota – CLXXV

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Markus Schulz’s acclaimed Coldharbour Recordings label reaches another milestone, and in continuing with tradition, signifies the achievement with a production from the man himself. For release number 175, Markus delves into his clubbier, instrumental-driven Dakota alias, with a track aptly titled, CLXXV.

The track debuted in grand fashion during his solo set at Space in Miami during Winter Music Conference, and was an ever-present throughout the recent Scream 2 Bus Tour, along with becoming the most requested ID in his Global DJ Broadcast sets. After listening to this phenomenal track you can understand why it was his most requested ID. Right out of the gate CLXXV hits you in the face with a fist full of musical love! This incredible drive is something that will hit the hearts and feet of every clubber and festival goer within ears reach. You can can really hear everything that embodies Markus Schulz, deep rolling bass lines with soulful melodies. This track is a perfect combination of the driving sounds we crave and the uplifting melodies we need. After this track plays you will love Markus Schulz aka Dakota even more. 

I had the chance to close out my set with CLXXV last night and it was a perfect ending to an incredible night! This track sounds like pure bliss over a professional sound systems and I soon found myself staring at a sea on smiles.

You can buy the track at:

Beatport: http://bit.ly/clhr175bp
Itunes: http://bit.ly/clhr175itunes

Follow Markus Schulz:
Website  | Website – GDJB | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Beatport | Spotify

New Music Review: M.I.K.E. Push – Astrolab

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Producing and DJing under the name M.I.K.E., he has been releasing records under the guises: Solar Factor, M.I.K.E, The Blackmaster, Return of the Native, Plastic Boy, Šand, and Push. In total, there are around 85 different aliases that span his career, because of either collaborations with other artists or adapting new aliases simply to suit the nature of a particular track. As a DJ, M.I.K.E.’s style is very similar to the music he makes, progressive trance with a techy-edge.

The track “Astrolab” is another fantastic creation coming from M.I.K.E. The drive in this track is incredible and will keep you engaged second after second. The overtly mechanical sound in the initial build gives it that little bit of extra we always look for in M.I.K.E.’s music. This track has so many different aspects of trance that I love its hard not to keep on hitting repeat! After listening to this track on my home system I could only imagine the magic that would happen if this were played at a festival or any large show. I guarantee this one will leave your ears ringing, in a good way. M.I.K.E. has done it again with this perfect blend of sounds we call “Astrolab”. I truly look forward to any music he releases and under the Coldharbour label, you can’t go wrong.

Purchase Astrolab Here!

Follow M.I.K.E.:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Mixcloud | iTunes | Beatport | Instagram

Album Review: Markus Schulz Scream 2

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After the huge success of the ‘Scream’ album, what better way to make another huge statement than to release ‘Scream 2’. I have to say everyone will be loving this album. Markus has made some amazing additions to the trance world with these tracks. Whether teamed up with some amazing talent or just the slayer by himself, each track will give you an in-depth view into the genius mind of Markus Schulz.

Let’s start this album review off with the track “Reloaded”. The beginning is great with an amazing melody that will just set the mood for the experience that is coming. This melody leads right into a very uplifting beat that seamlessly melts into the steady flow. Before you know it that beautiful melody is back ringing through your ears before dropping you right back into a fantastic drive. “Reloaded” is not to hard and not to soft but just right!

“Revolution” is a great vocal track that features Chris Madin. The way Chris sings these vocals will send chills down your spine. Just as you think this can’t get any better, Markus Schulz teams up with Venom One to create a phenomenal beat to accompany Chris Madin’s vocals. For me, I can see this played often at festivals to come!

“Blown Away” features Liz Primo and what can really be said about this creation other than, wow. This track to me is an emotional tugger and will really bring out the feelings in the listeners. With that being said, Markus continues to blow us away every time he shares his musical love with us. Liz Primo’s unique voice is a great addition and gives “Blown Away” a nice edge.

For me “Remember This” is one of my favorites on the album. I have been inspired by this track since the first time I heard it. There are so many great things going on here and from first hand experience this “Remember This” is simply amazing when heard on a professional sound system. I have used this track at my own shows and always get a positive response from the crowd. When your ears hear “Remember This”, it is like a signal is immediately sent to the muscles in your face that make you smile. Such a great addition to ‘Scream 2′.

“Erase You” is another favorite for me. Lady V (aka Victoria Horn) absolutely crushes the vocals and really brings a new breath of life to this track. After being dubbed the sequel to the “Stalker Anthem”, you really are told such an interesting story from start to finish. I found myself creating a music video in my head while listening. “Erase You” is so strong and direct that’s what I love about Markus Schulz and trance music. The way Markus and Lady V convey a message throughout this song is so skillful and precise, all while creating a masterpiece.

“Destino” and “Dancing in the Key of Life” have a very mystical sound to them from start to finish. They suck you in without you even knowing and I found myself really picking them apart and enjoying the sounds. Along with so many other of Markus’ creations, his sounds just envelop you and make every worry disappear and turn into enjoyment. These two are no different.

For “Lord Knows”, Markus Schulz teams up with Liz Horsman to deliver a mind bending track that includes fantastic vocals. From the first moment you hear Liz’s voice you cannot do anything but give your full attention to the track. As you set sail throughout the ups and downs, Markus transitions you slowly. This track gives you the feeling of floating in and out of reality in a good way!

“Fireworks” has a special place in my heart because two of my favorite artists collaborated on this track. Any music that has the name Klauss Goulart or Markus Schulz associated with it is always amazing. Combine them both with Paul Aiden and you get legendary. These vocals will literally grab your attention no matter what mood you’re in. Paul Aiden gradually leads you into a hard-hitting happy drive that will take over your soul. I cannot wait to hear this played at the many festivals coming up over spring and summer. Klauss, Markus and Paul have really outdone themselves with this one!

Markus Schulz Approved Press Photo.web

“In the Shadows” is such a deep track, it’s like Markus reached deep down inside, pulled that guttural emotion out and smeared it all over this. There is so much substance expressed within only a few minutes. It is amazing how this creation can really envelop you while still drawing you further and further in. I can only imagine a crowd reaction upon hearing “In the Shadows” at a Markus show. That big Markus smile we all fall in love with is sure to be making an appearance while this is played.

Adina Butar has also made an appearance on the album with “Muse”. Adina has a way of taking any track to the next level with her ground shaking vocals. When you get Markus Schulz making the beats and Adina serenading you with vocals there is no going wrong. “Muse” is a stunning song that really showcases both of their talents. This will have the vocals and beat marinating in your head long after the track has finished. Such a great addition to the ‘Scream 2’ album.

Markus and CeCe Peniston have teamed up on ‘Scream 2’ to create “Make You Fall”. This track has fun written all over it. The vocals from CeCe are very refreshing and upbeat, exciting you for what’s to come. Without a hesitation Markus pulls it all together with one of the funnest beats on the album. This is such a great dance track and will really make you bounce in your seat the whole time you listen. I love seeing this side of Markus Schulz and love how he expresses it!

Up until this point I thought I had picked my favorites, this all changed when I heard “Mango”. This track is amazing! The lead build is simply perfection and transitions so well into an immaculate drive. This drive is so hard and at the same time so different. The sound of “Mango” will immediately draw you in and spin you around in a trance wonderland created by Markus Schulz. No unicorn can fly fast enough to escape the slaying that happens from beginning to end. I can see “Mango” exploding onto the scene and taking over shows creating so many memorable experiences for everyone.

Following “Mango” is another strong addition to the album,”Mardi Gras”.  This track really comes alive for me during the midpoint. You just get lost in the synth and just keep floating away until the musical conductor, Markus Schulz decides its time for you to be reeled back to earth. There also is a point where you hear a hollow, almost echoing noise that is really interesting and not like any sound I’ve heard. Things like this and so many other high points within “Mardi Gras” really makes the track stand out!

“Gravity” featuring Amy Kirkpatrick can be summed up with one word, beautiful. Amy’s voice is so angelic and meshes so well with the foundation that Markus provides. “Gravity” is such a fitting name because that’s the only thing that will keep you grounded while listening. This masterpiece makes you want to grab your closest friend or loved one and just melt away together. This will be such an emotional piece for so many people and cant wait to see the love spread from “Gravity”.

“Reflection” is very interesting and has a theme feel to the sound and placement of everything going on. I could see this track being used on trance festival after movies and videos. “Reflection” really made me think while I was listening to it and before I knew it I was reminiscing in my head different shows I’ve been to and reliving why I feel in love with trance. Markus has subtly but efficiently created a track that will make you relive your love for music.

Last but not least, Markus Schulz and Rex Mundi have teamed up to create a great banger. “Towards the Sun” is very uplifting but at the same time makes you just want to move your feet. The title is perfect because with these two artists collaborating, heaven is not that far out of reach. Great job on this one!

Markus Schulz has opened up and let us into his world yet again with ‘Scream 2’. Listening to this album has been very enjoyable and I look forward to experiencing some of these tracks at the upcoming shows and festivals that I will be attending. I’ll be using a lot of these at my very own shows to spread the word of trance and how Markus Schulz is a constant positive influence in my life and others!

Markus Schulz’s artist album ‘Scream 2’ will be released today, February 21st!

Buy the CD from Armada Shop
Buy on iTunes Scream 2 – Markus Schulz

Scream 2 Tracklist:
01. Markus Schulz – Reloaded
02. Markus Schulz – Revolution (with Venom One feat. Chris Madin)
03. Markus Schulz – Blown Away (feat. Liz Primo)
04. Markus Schulz – Remember This
05. Markus Schulz – Erase You (feat. Lady V)
06. Markus Schulz – Destino
07. Markus Schulz – Muse (feat. Adina Butar)
08. Markus Schulz – Dancing In The Key Of Life
09. Markus Schulz – Lord Knows (feat. Liz Horsman)
10. Markus Schulz – Fireworks (with Klauss Goulart feat. Paul)
11. Markus Schulz – In The Shadows
12. Markus Schulz – Make You Fall (feat. CeCe Peniston)
13. Markus Schulz – Mango
14. Markus Schulz – Mardi Gras
15. Markus Schulz – Gravity (feat. Amy Kirkpatrick)
16. Markus Schulz – Reflection
17. Markus Schulz – Towards The Sun (with Rex Mundi)

Markus Schulz – Scream 2 (Album Teaser)

Markus Schulz feat. Adina Butar “Muse”

Behind the scenes of Scream 2:

Follow Markus Schulz:
Website  | Website – GDJB | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Beatport | Spotify

New Release Review: Coldharbour Selections Part 34

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Continuing Coldharbour’s momentous 2013 output is one of the label’s founding traditions, where Markus Schulz presents three hand picked tracks that have dominated the Global DJ Broadcast airwaves and his live sets for a consistent period, the 34th edition of Coldharbour Selections.

We start with Elevation vs. Grube & Hovsepian “Fair Winds (Original Mix)”. This mind melting track is a hands down, a great choice by Markus. “Fair Winds” is such deep track and is quite refreshing to listen to. You can close your eyes and drift away while the amazing sounds melt together seamlessly in that powerful space between your ears. Mike Targanski, Tim Grube and Mike Hovsepian have made perfection by blending all of their creative genius into this track. I played this during the final hour at my set this weekend and can say a big sound system really takes this track to the next level. The emotion it brought out of the club goers was breathtaking.

Next we dive into Ali Wilson “Angelic State (Original Mix)”. First let me say I thoroughly enjoyed the long, steady build in this track. For me the real magic happened three minutes in. The subtle drive in this track toward the end isn’t overpowering but just makes you want to move your feet. The buzzing sound throughout “Angelic State” gives this track a unique twist and makes it stand out even more. After listening to this track you will completely understand why the name is perfect, “Angelic State” takes you to heaven. This track fits perfectly into my set, so powerful and beautiful!

Last but certainly not least is Bogdan Vix “Providance (Original Mix)”. Let me start by saying, wow! From the very first second this track had my attention. The beginning drive is so hard right out of the gate and leads to a perfectly placed drop off and rebuild. The mid portion of the track gives you a feel of the first hard drive with some nostalgia added in. Then “Providance” dives right back into that killer drive which will undoubtedly grab your attention. This track is such a speaker cruncher, and it did just that when I played it. Such a great sound produced from this Bodgan Vix masterpiece.

I can say I really enjoyed integrating all of the phenomenal choices by Markus into my set this weekend. Coldharbour Selections Part 34 gets better and better every time I listen to it.

Tracklist:
Elevation vs Grube & Hovsepian – “Fair Winds”
Ali Wilson “Angelic State”
Bogdan Vix “Providance”

Purchase Coldharbour Selections Part 34:  Beatport | iTunes

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/129850679″ params=”color=ff5500&auto_play=false&show_artwork=true” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

 

Follow Elevation
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Beatport

Follow Grube & Hovsepian
Website | Facebook | Twitter | SoundCloud | Beatport

Follow Ali Wilson:
Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Beatport

Follow Bogdan Vix:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Beatport

Follow Coldharbour Recordings:
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New Release Review: Klauss Goulart feat. Amanda Wilson – Live For Now (Absolute Chaos)

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As 2013 came to a close, the addictive melody of Klauss Goulart’s “Absolute Chaos” became infectious at some of dance music’s marquee events. From the 10th Anniversary of Transmission to the Sunburn Festival in Goa, the track has become an essential for Coldharbour owner Markus Schulz, featuring prominently in both his solo and New World Punx sets.

While Klauss never disappoints with his music, Amanda Wilson graces us with her impeccable vocals that takes this track to the next level.

The beginning of this track starts so deep, enveloping you from the first moment. The vocals build you up toward an amazing mid drive that immediately promotes a smile. This track to me says festival or arena all over it. Such a concoction of amazing sounds that truly take you on a ride no matter where you are listening to “Live for Now (Absolute Chaos)”.

I had the opportunity to play this track at my show Saturday night and on a large sound system the track really comes to life. The crowd response was fantastic and this will be included in many of my sets going forward.  Klauss has done it again and proves time after time why he is one of the best.

Listen on Spotify

Purchase “Live For Now (Absolute Chaos)” on:  Beatport | iTunes

Follow Klauss Goulart:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | SoundCloud | Beatport | iTunes

New Music Review: M.I.K.E. – The Motive E.P.

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Belgian producer M.I.K.E. is responsible for some of the most iconic moments in trance music, whether it is under his main alias, or the alter egos of Push or Plastic Boy. Fresh from contributing to Markus Schulz’s Buenos Aires ’13 compilation with Before Dawn, he presents his first E.P. of originals for Coldharbour Recordings with three tracks in his unique style.

“The Motive” is the first track on this E.P and what a way to start. This is such a driven track by M.I.K.E. Upon first listen it just engages your ears from start to finish. The mid section of this track is such an ear burner and  will only engage with the audience even more. After this great synth it leads right back into the driving energy that will for sure keep people moving the whole track.

“Spacesuit” is what I like to call a hair raiser. This a very deep and dark track. The melody is subtle at points but creeps in at the right moments to send that ever lasting chill up and down your spine. The way the mid section of this track leads into the last-minute and a half its outright perfection. After listening to this track and the previous you can really get a good grasp onto how talented and how much of a range M.I.K.E. has to offer.

To finish off this great E.P. the last track is “Mass Freedom”. You really get the M.I.K.E. sound we all know in this track. As you take the six-minute journey you can almost vision a huge crowd of people with their hands up embracing the everlasting sounds in this track. The numerous sounds incorporated into this track just fit perfectly and the flow in incredible.

M.I.K.E. did a great job with this E.P. and I really enjoyed every track. I played these tracks at my own show on Saturday night and the crowd reaction was exactly what I expected, phenomenal. I think the crowd favorite of the night was “Spacesuit” or “The Motive” but I thoroughly enjoyed incorporating all three into my set. These tracks really come to life over a professional sound system.

Options to Purchase:

Beatport: bit.ly/clhr169bp
Juno Download: bit.ly/clhr169juno

Follow M.I.K.E.:

Website  Facebook  Twitter  YouTube  SoundCloud  Mixcloud  iTunes  Beatport  Instagram

Official Music Video for KhoMha – Hydra Released

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After releasing the Hydra E.P., this trio of tracks have become favorites to many Coldharbour Recordings and KhoMha followers.

The first track on the E.P., “Hydra” has received huge support and is becoming a go to for many trance artists. What better way to celebrate than with an official music video. Enjoy!

Fisherman & Hawkins and KhoMha Booked for ASOT650 Utrecht

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Ten-thousands of ASOT fans will touch down on Dutch soil ­ to celebrate ASOT650 at its place of birth. On February 15th, at the massive Jaarbeurs in Utrecht, trance lovers will unite and share our passion for music, with a staggering line-up and show unlike you’ve ever seen before. To get you in the mood, we’re happy to announce the line-up for the Who’s Afraid of 138?! area, the ASOT Invites stage and Talent Room!

Coldharbour artists Fisherman & Hawkins and KhoMha will be among the amazing talent at ASOT 650!

Who’s Afraid of 138?!
Armin van Buuren
Bryan Kearney
Ferry Tayle b2b Manuel Le Saux
Ian Standerwick
Jordan Suckley
Paul Webster
Photographer
Sean Tyas

ASOT Invites
Ben Gold
Eximinds
KhoMha
Kyau & Albert
Mark Sixma
Max Graham
Protoculture

Talent Room
Alexandre Bergheau
Allen & Envy
Arisen Flame
David Gravell
Fisherman & Hawkins
Hazem Beltagui
Maarten de Jong
ReOrder
Toby Hedges

For tickets, hotel accommodations and more info click here http://bit.ly/1bk0WkF

New Music Review: Klauss Goulart – Absolute Chaos E.P.

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It’s a welcome return to a familiar face for regular Coldharbour Recordings followers. Klauss Goulart carves an E.P. full of grooves, energy and catchy melodies. With previous bangers under his belt such as “Turbulence” and “No Man’s Land”, Klauss Goulart presents his first work for the label in over two years.

The first track on this E.P. is “Absolute Chaos”. This track off the bat starts with a nice solid beat to draw you in before fizzling out and turning into a driven mid section. The thing that really brought this together for me personally was the hollow knocking sound overlaying the synth, a very nice touch. The last half of this track has a very big room sound. When I dropped this song at my last show the magic happened all through out the track, but the last-minute is when the dance floor erupted. Klauss is right on track with this song and it came together perfectly.

Next track is “Legions (Original Mix)” which will catch the attention of the big room lovers, with a tough rugged bassline and an unrelenting melody boasting plenty of power. I have to say, playing this at a venue on a professional sound system sounds amazing. This track is the definition of a driving dance beat. It kept the club goers moving and smiling when “Legions” was played during my set. Klauss also throws in a true trance fell at the end of the track which shows how much talent is within him. Not only do I see “Legions” as one of my favorites, but I see this song providing many smiles for crowds in the near future. Once again great work!

The last track on this E.P. “Nayana (Original Mix)” has the most true trance feel for me. Such a great way to showcase that Klauss has so many aspects of blissful sound to give. The first time I heard this track was during Global DJ Broadcast and I feel in love immediately. This track has my favorite build of any on the E.P.  This is what I like to call a “Hands Up” song. So many melodic harmonies just make you want to close your eyes and disappear into trance heaven. I can only hope to hear this song at a festival to get the true feel of what a song like this can do to a crowd. I actually closed my show last night with this song and it felt like everyone was amazed with the sound and the heart put into this track.

The Absolute Chaos E.P. is a great showcase of all the amazing talent that Klauss Goulart has. This E.P. I believe covers almost every sound of great trance there is. “Nayana” is my personal favorite but with these three tracks its hard to pick.

Take a listen below and be sure to purchase the Absolute Chaos E.P. on Beatport or iTunes.

Follow Klauss Goulart:
Website:  www.klaussgoulart.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/officialklaussgoulart
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/KlaussGoulart
YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/klaussgoulart
SoundClound:  https://soundcloud.com/klaussgoulart
Beatport:  http://www.beatport.com/artist/klauss-goulart/110696
iTunes:  https://itunes.apple.com/pt/artist/klauss-goulart/id322915186

New Release Review: KhoMha – Hydra E.P.

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KhoMha remains as one of the most exciting new talents of dance music and the year 2013 will have provided the Colombian wonder with plenty of memories. The Hydra E.P. rounds off an incredible 12 months for Mr. Roberto Alzate Pasos. With several Coldharbour Nights before the year rounds out, he isn’t finished on his pursuit of ascension just yet.

“Hydra” is a good track from the get-go. With a nice initial build, this track goes into a minimal preview of the end of the track. The synth sound in particular is very  inspiring. It’s what I like to call a “hands up”  sound and after one listen you can understand why. The second build in this track is where it really started to happen for me. After the drop you can hear the original line from the first portion of the track with a big room sound added. Overall I would say this is a solid track by KhoMha.

The next track on E.P. is “Drummer”. This track is a very driving, with a sound that you just want to hear on an impressive festival sound system. Again, KhoMha impresses with another great mid line to this track. The musical engineering going on here is quite impressive. KhoMha makes musical masterpieces like this really come to life with his never-ending twists that will keep drawing you in for another listen. I have to admit, I listened to this track a few times and each time I heard something different that made the track better. I see this becoming the base for some great trance remixes.

Now on to the last track “Kadence”, which is one of my personal favorites on this E.P. From the beginning this track has festival and club written all over it. This is one of those tracks, that when played the crowd will just erupt. The first 60 seconds of this track is the definition of what a driving beat is. When the mid synth kicks in you can’t help but to smile when you here the magic happening in your ears. Once that drive is over, “Kadence” kicks back in with a similar beat as to the first minute but with a more hollowed out punching sound. I see this track becoming a staple at many festivals and clubs as a go to trance track.

This E.P. is perfect for every listener. No matter what you are looking for it can be found in the Hydra E.P. I played each of these tracks at my show last night and the crowd reaction was very good. The two tracks that seemed to hit it off the most was “Kadence” and “Drummer”.

Great job on the Hydra E.P. KhoMha!

You can purchase the Hydra E.P. on Beatport by clicking here.