BEHIND THE SCENES
The 2018 resurgence of Hardstyle wasn’t just a mere blip in the timeline of electronic music; it was a monumental revival, breathing new life into a genre that has always pulsated at the heart of the dance music scene. This resurgence, marked by electrifying
passion of die-hard fans and captured the hearts of new listeners.
groundbreaking tracks and performances,
rekindled the
Central to this revival was ‘Xplode’, a trailblazing collaboration between Avancada and Darius & Finlay. This track wasn’t just another addition to the genre; it represented a seismic shift in Hardstyle’s trajectory. Released under the prestigious Armada Music banner, it infused a vibrant and fresh Hardstyle twist to the original composition. Its impact was far-reaching, attracting a diverse audience and blazing a trail across festival stages worldwide.
The transformative power of ‘Xplode’ was further amplified by the dynamic remix crafted by Graham Bell and Yoel Lewis. Their version added a new dimension of ferocity and depth, transforming the track into an immersive experience. The remix wasn’t just an auditory treat; it was a visceral journey that resonated with the very soul of Hardstyle. The moment it was unleashed during Armin van Buuren’s iconic set at Tomorrowland 2017, it was clear – Hardstyle was not just returning; it was evolving, roaring back to the forefront of the electronic music landscape with renewed vigor and an unmistakable presence.
Building on the momentum set by ‘Xplode’, DJ Isaac’s remix of ‘Heaven’ further underlined the diverse potential of Hardstyle. This track, a reimagining of Dash Berlin’s version, served as a vibrant showcase of the genre’s adaptability and innovative spirit. By blending the euphoric essence of the 2002 classic by DJ Sammy and Yanou featuring Do with the intense, driving energy of Hardstyle, the remix emerged as a masterpiece of genre fusion. Its debut at Ultra Miami in 2017 marked a defining moment, elevating it to an anthem status within the Hardstyle community. It resonated profoundly across international festival grounds, finding its way into the electrifying sets of prominent figures like DVBBS, Krewella, and Lowriderz.
This track exemplified how Hardstyle could honor its roots while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of electronic music. The impact of Ran-D’s adaptation of ‘Zombie’ in the Hardstyle resurgence cannot be overstated. This
than a mere cover; it was a powerful reinterpretation that bridged the gap between generations. Ran-D skillfully wove the haunting melody of The Cranberries’ 1994 hit with the dynamic, pulsating essence of Hardstyle, crafting a track that broke the confines of genre limitations. It was a harmonious
rendition was much more
blend of nostalgia and modernity, creating a unique auditory experience that appealed to a broad audience. The track’s reach extended far
capturing global attention and securing a spot in the playlists of industry titans like Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, Hardwell, and Sander van Doorn. Ran-D’s ‘Zombie’ stood as a testament to the transformative and unifying power of Hardstyle, a genre that continually evolves while remaining true to its emotive core.
The 2018 resurgence of Hardstyle was a symphony of collaboration and innovation, transcending beyond just individual tracks to encompass the collective efforts of artists and labels. A key player in this revival was Armada Music, a label known for its forward-thinking approach and dedication to the evolution of electronic music. Armada’s embrace of Hardstyle played a critical role in the genre’s renewed popularity. Their
captured the essence of Hardstyle but also introduced fresh elements that broadened the genre’s appeal.
beyond the Hardstyle community,
releases not only
Take, for example, Hardwell’s ‘Summer Air’ (Dr. Phunk Remix). This track was a breath of fresh air, infusing the vibrant energy of summer into the powerful dynamics of Hardstyle. It was a perfect blend of uplifting melodies and the genre’s signature hard-hitting beats, proving that Hardstyle could be both energetic and emotive. Ran-D’s collaboration in 2019 with Psyko Punkz and K’s Choice on ‘Not An Addict’ took things a step further, merging the raw intensity of Hardstyle with the gritty vibes of alternative rock. This fusion created a sound that was both innovative and familiar, breaking new ground in genre crossovers.
Hammer House’s ‘The Jumper’ (Mass Medium Remix) further versatility.
elements that venturing
demonstrated the genre’s capacity to adapt and thrive,
fans and newcomers. resonating with both long-time
The impact of individual artists in this resurgence was equally significant. Ran-D, a vanguard of the Hardstyle movement, has consistently been a driving force in shaping the genre’s evolution. His music goes beyond mere
through rhythm, inviting listeners into a world where every kick drum and bassline tells a story. Then there’s Timmy Trumpet, whose unique fusion of Hardstyle with other electronic genres has injected an electrifying vitality into the scene. His tracks are a testament to the boundless possibilities of musical exploration.
beats – it’s a narrative expressed into This remix new sonic define
Hardstyle while landscapes.
core It
the
exemplified Hardstyle’s retained
mixmagnl.com 63
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68
