When listening to trance, sometimes, melodic arpeggios don't cut it. Sometimes, a straight 4:4 signature doesn't feel right. Sometimes, you don't want a piano, strings, and a major scale riff. Yes, sometimes you need the darker tracks.
There's some quality of dark songs that always seduces me. They are intriguing, mystifying, and captivating. They linger in your head and shape your mood. I wouldn't think of them as depressing; though they have the ability to dampen the atmosphere.
I'd like to share with you some of my recent obsessions.
First, there's the (self-labeled) Trace Energy 2010 Anthem, "Renegade," by Sander van Doorn. I do not dispute its anthem status, and I in fact like the direction this track takes trance. Its an in-your-face single, like many trance anthems. But, its brooding, moody, and dark, unlike many trance anthems. Perhaps dark trance will go mainstream?
Second, check out Crystal Castles. This Ontario-based duet of singer and producer has the capability of taking experimental electronica to the radio. Their haunting compositions mix with a 80s-pop feeling to make perfect cross-over tracks, if record producers would be willing to listen. "Crimewave" is off of Crystal Castles's freshman CD, and I would suggest picking up both their self-titled albums.
Third, "You Are Not Alone" by Mason is a wickedly chilling track. With soft vocals, fast tempo, and rumbling, sustaining bass, "You Are Not Alone" is a lounge-worthy song that is not a bit cheesy.
Last, here's a resurrection of an old Faithless track--the Armin van Buuren remix of "Not Going Home." It might be at risk for being overplayed at this point, though this track is still gripping and entrancing.
Enjoy!
--tonotopik
