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On the fourth of August this year my life completely changed. I was already back on track when it comes to Sied van Riel and Rielism, but on that day I discovered two new names. It was all thanks to sharing a mix on Sied’s Facebook page that I was drawn towards a mix by, at the time, two unknown DJs/producers, namely Perrelli & Mankoff. I was (and still am) blown away by their approach to Trance music, and their dedication of making sure everyone gets their daily Trance dosage, and this obviously led up to this moment: interviewing these two new superstars. So enjoy the interview with Perrelli & Mankoff! Q: Hi guys, how are you doing? How’s life at the moment? “Hello! We’re doing great. Thanks for having us!” Q: Can you explain yourself who you are, to those who have never heard or seen your names before? “We’re a producer/DJ duo based in Newcastle, UK. We’re both huge fans of Trance and lots of other genres of course.” Q: I wanted to browse your Facebook information section, but there’s not a lot of information on your past, how you got together etc. Only about your releases, which we will talk about later in the interview. But for now, how did you two get together, and was it magic from the start? “CM: We met at a local trance night in 2013 which we were both playing at. Dan had been producing for a number of years and had had a few releases already. We got together in the studio and it went really well. We bounced ideas off each other and we were both really satisfied with the outcome, so we decided to start a project together.” Q: When many DJs and producers use an alter ego/alias, you decided to keep your last names as artist names. Ever thought of using different artist names instead? “Not really. We chose the name once we had finished our first track, Gratification, and we just stuck with it. We’ve contemplated using an alias but that would mean starting again from scratch. We do however use the pseudonym ‘P&M Project’ for our slower, houseier stuff.” Q: You two emerged in 2015 with records such as ‘Vertebra’, ‘Gratification’ and ‘Phantom Of The Emperor’. But before you became producers, were you dancefloor ravers? What were Perrelli and Mankoff doing before they became DJs/producers? “DP: I actually got my first set of decks when I was 13, long before I had ever stepped foot into a club. I had a few residencies at some small local nights which were more towards the harder side of dance music.” “CM: I was a late bloomer in terms of Trance / dance music, but once I started going raving, I got hooked, and knew straight away that I wanted to learn how to mix and produce.” Q: When I grew up, the music that dominated my youth was House, which quickly diverted into Hardcore/Gabber, and around the Millennium Trance emerged out of nowhere, and I bought literally every bloody Trance compilation under the Sun. What did you two listen to when you were younger, and when was it  you discovered Trance music? “DP: Before I discovered Trance, I was into a genre called Makina (Spanish Hardcore), as well as Hard House. Around 2009 I started listening to Trance from the golden era (late 90s/early 2000s), and it just went from there really.” “CM: As I was born into a very religious family, I actually grew up listening to Jewish music, which then gave way to pop music, but the less said about that, the better! I got really into rock music as a teenager, and was obsessed with that until I finally got introduced to Trance in 2010, and I never looked back!” Q: It’s always difficult to answer this question, but I will ask it anyway: for those who do not know Trance or do not understand it, what’s the sheer power behind the music? Why is it so heavenly? “That is indeed difficult to answer. It’s not easy to pinpoint what’s so powerful and enthralling about it. It’s something you just feel. If we had to describe it, we’d say that it’s a beautiful combination of beats / percussion with melodic elements intertwining, that evokes emotion on many different levels. We saw a really cool quote somewhere recently: “Trance is euphoria, and euphoria is a state of mind”.” Q: Who were the artists you listened to when you discovered Trance, and who was actually the one (or ones) who made you decide to leave the dancefloor and start making music yourselves? “DP: When I started listening to trance, I really enjoyed Ferry Corsten, Tiesto, Paul van Dyk and Paul Oakenfold. I wouldn’t say that there was a particular artist who inspired me to make Trance, it was more the music as a whole.” “CM: What he said^. I think we both just fell in love with the music. When I started listening to Trance, I was a big Armin fanboy, and I also loved Markus Schulz and Gareth Emery. When my tastes in Trance matured a little bit, I considered Sied van Riel, W&W, Jochen Miller, Mat Zo and Arty to be my favourites. As I got more into the harder/faster side of Trance, I was really into the likes of John O’Callaghan, Bryan Kearney, Jordan Suckley, Will Atkinson, Sean Tyas, Mark Sherry. I would say they all played their part.” Q: To make music you need a studio, or a laptop (whatever’s within budget of course). To make a Perrelli & Mankoff record, what’s the set up? What kind of soft-/hardware do you use? “We’re in the process of building a “proper” studio, so for now we just produce in each other’s houses, using 2 laptops running FL Studio 11, a midi keyboard and monitors. Once we get closer to setting up the studio, we hope to invest in another pair of monitors and some hardware synths. It’s a very basic set-up at the moment, but it’s all about what you do with it isn’t it?!” Q: You two haven’t been in the scene that long, but still, do you judge your previous records, and see improvements, or are you not there yet? “We absolutely do, we’re constantly seeing improvements and that’s how we know we’re headed in the right direction. We still have a very long way to go, and we’re constantly aspiring to improve our productions, but we do look back and cringe at some of our earlier tracks, which is something most producers do we think!” Q: In 2016 you continued producing, and (according to Discogs) 5 records were thrown into the Trance scene, records such as ‘Catapult’,’The Other Half Of Me’ and ‘Hierarchy’. What’s the message behind your music? “That’s a question that Keith Lemon would ask! There isn’t really a message behind our music, it’s just 2 guys putting their heart and soul into their productions, making music that they love, hoping that other people will enjoy listening to it.” Q: You have had some good responses from the fans and records have been supported by the likes of Paul van Dyk, Markus Schulz, Aly & Fila, Sied van Riel, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Sean Tyas, and the list goes on. Be it as Perrelli & Mankoff or P&M Project, do you sometimes wake up and think it’s all a dream? “We feel extremely grateful and honoured that our music has been supported by some incredible artists, but at the same time, at the risk of sounding conceited, it’s not a surprise really because we really believe in our music and feel very passionate about it. It’s an incredible feeling to have DJs playing our tracks though, and we can’t thank them enough.” Q: Such a support must have led up to at least a mansion in the country side and 3 swimming pools, 4 Ferrari’s and more? “Of course. Don’t forget about the Lamborghinis, the yacht and the jet!” Q: 2017 emerged, and so did you two. Sied van Riel shared a mix on his Facebook page and it got my attention. It was the Rielism guestmix I think? Before we go and talk about the present day, let’s talk about Rielism and Sied van Riel. According to Soundcloud (and other media outlets) A&R for Rielism? How did that happen? How did you get this opportunity? “CM: Yeah, that was the mix we made to coincide with the release of Lingering Mind. We’re very glad to know that you enjoyed it! I’ve known Sied for a while, and as the Rielism label and brand grew, it was becoming a very heavy workload for one person, so he offered me the opportunity to come in and help with A&R and with running the label, an opportunity which I jumped at! It’s a role that I thoroughly enjoy.” Q: Sied van Riel is obviously giving you two a platform to showcase your strengths and diversity. Besides (obviously) being a friend, is he a good mentor? Does he give you any advise on how to improve or change records, etc? “Absolutely. He’s a great mentor, he gives us some very helpful advice and feedback, and it’s a great privilege knowing that we have the guidance and support of someone who has been at the top of the game for so long!” Q: Production wise you are mainly focussing on making records on your own (with female singers), but if you could make a record with anyone from the scene, who would it be, and why? “We’re actually working on some collaborations at the moment with some of our favourite artists, which we’re very grateful and excited about. Including one with Mr. Rielism himself! You heard it here first .In regards to a vocalist/songwriter, we’d love to work with Susana one day. That would definitely be a dream come true!” Q: Your most recent releases (Lingering Mind/Solar Flare) are really causing damages all over the world, on several dancefloors. What’s going on in Perrelli & Mankoff’s world right now, and what are the future plans? “Thanks very much! We’re working on lots of new music, mostly originals but also some remixes and reworks. We have some big plans in the works for 2018, but we can’t reveal too much at this stage. We are however very excited to reveal some of it in the coming months.” Q: It’s always difficult to pick a favourite Trance record of all time, the list is always changing. My list contains ‘Out Of Grace – Obscura’ ‘Spark7 & Thomas DeColita – ID 22’, ‘Thomas Bronzwear – Close Horizon’, ‘Richard Durand & Sied van Riel – Rivella’, ‘Alex M.O.R.P.H. presents Everest – Oree’, ‘Alex M.O.R.P.H. – Consequence’, ‘Celvin Rotane – Bienvenue’,  ‘Factor 9 – Release Me (Svenson & Gielen Remix)’, ‘Gabriel & Dresden – Arcadia’,  and a few more. If you had to compose a list of your favourites, who would it be, and why? “DP: Paul van Dyk – Out There And Back has gotta be my favourite album of all time. I lost count of the amount of times I listened to it a very long time ago!” “CM: This is never an easy question to answer, but most of my favourites are classics. ‘Solarstone – Solarcoaster (Midway Mix)’, ‘Saltwater – The Legacy (Alphazone Remix)’, ‘Push – The Legacy’, ‘Armin – Communcation’ are probably top of my list. They just don’t make ‘em like they used to!” Q: What’s your opinion about the current state of Trance, and the history behind it? Has it evolved well, and what will the future bring for Trance music? “We couldn’t tell you what the future will bring, your guess is as good as ours. We think it has evolved in a healthy way, musically at least. There might not be as many events as there used to be in the UK and Europe, but the Asia and America markets are getting bigger each year. There has always been an abundance of great music, some years more than others, but if you look in the right places, there are gems being released every week. Producing will only get easier though, so it’s imperative that labels employ a high level of quality control to ensure that the scene doesn’t become too saturated in the coming years.” Q: Last random question of today, and it’s the most quirky one ever (hence the name of the website ‘thecrazydutchmansblog’): Sied is covered with tattoos: when will your logo appear on his body? Would he be happy to be a living billboard for P&M? “Haha! We ask him this on a weekly basis. We’re still waiting for his response on this, so watch this space!” We would like to say ‘thank you’ to Perrelli & Mankoff, a duo you need to look out for! Check them out on various pages (links are underneath the review, so like them, and follow them). Also check out their latest releases, like the majestic ‘Lingering Mind’ with Sara Houston and ‘Solar Flare’. This UK Trance duo will become the next best thing to emerge, so you are warned! Thanks again for these insightful answers, and to get you a fan as well, here’s a Soundcloud player with their releases. Perrelli & Mankoff – Soundcloud  Page Perrelli & Mankoff – Facebook Fanpage Perrelli & Mankoff – Official Twitter Page Perrelli & Mankoff – Instagram Page Perrelli & Mankoff – Youtube Channel Perrelli & Mankoff – Discogs Artist Page Perrelli & Mankoff – Beatport Page Perrelli & Mankoff – iTunes Page Rielism – Facebook Fanpage Rielism – Official Website Rielism – Soundcloud Page

You might have seen this event on Facebook: Ravekick – 100% Happy Hardcore – #001 Lift Off Launch Party. This event takes place on the 24th of March 2018 at the Popcentrale in Dordrecht, the Netherlands. It’s organised by a brand new collective, called HPTG music. I’m speaking to one of the people behind this new collective, Daniel Seven, and talk about this event, the future, and of course a bit about his own past/present & future. So this is a duo interview. Enjoy it, and make sure you attend this party! Hi Daniel, how’s life? “I’m doing fine. Life has its ups and downs, with blocks falling down like a Tetris game. Being a good player and planning ahead is the way forward.” Before we start talking about yourself, can we first discuss this new collective you are part of. HPTG music. Can you explain to me what this is, who’s behind it, and what the mission is? “HPTG Music is a record label founded in 2018, as a foundation to the HPTG Collective. We are 7 artists coming from all over the world, with different cultures, but having a mutual love for the music and a good amount of synergy. Our mission is to deliver our music as a pure art form to the world – placing the “fun” before anything else.” A brand new collective, with a mission. And there’s more happening. At first, you’ve got an event planned in Dordrecht, The Netherlands, on the 24th of March. Can you tell us a bit about why your first event takes place in the Netherlands? Why not the UK, or Italy, or anywhere else? “We believe that the Happy Hardcore roots are in the Netherlands – back to the 90s there were many Happy Hardcore events. Also, nowadays there’s a lack of Happy Hardcore events in the Netherlands (and probably also around Center Europe – where Happy Hardcore used to be the epicentre of these events). So, we chose the Netherlands because we want to bring these vibes there again!” It’s a risk. Many have tried to pull off a UK Hardcore event abroad, and some have been succesful and some haven’t. What’s the secret behind this new event? “Showing that we are making these events because we want to have a good time – and give an opportunity to let ravers be themselves without any dress code or “behaviour code”. That’s what rave culture used to be in the past, and that’s how we want Ravekick to be! Music is meant to connect people, not to divide people.” The line-up is quite cool: Fracus & Darwin, Vau Boy, Alaguan, Triplestar DJ and Furystomper (and yourself too). On Facebook you mention the fact that the focus is on getting UK Hardcore and Happy Hardcore to the Netherlands, and with only one goal: raving! Music wise, what can the people expect? “Good, energetic, hectic, funny, uplifting, dreamy music, you name it. With our music, we want to express ourselves, and let even other people express themselves. Ravers will be our inspiration!” If there are people out there who do know Happy Hardcore, but not UK Hardcore, can you explain what it is? “Not really. I think that UK Hardcore is how Happy Hardcore was called in the UK, back to the early 2000’s. It’s literally the same thing, really. Happy Hardcore isn’t just a genre, is a movement, a scene, with no country and cultural boundaries. It can be happy, dreamy, sad, angry, energetic, whatever. It’s music.” What will you personally play? Will there be records from your latest album in your set? “I’m going to play a selection of my own tracks – including a few from my album – and possibly also a selection of my favourite actual happy hardcore tracks. I’ll play also “Teardrop” alongside Lexi, which she will be performing as a vocalist here at Ravekick.” Let’s talk abit about yourself. I’ve just talked about your latest album, which was called ‘Electronic Happy Dreamer’. You worked alongside artists such as Fracus & Darwin, M-Project, Emi, Hotchkiss, MOB, Olly P, and more. How did the album come about? “My music had always a distinct dreamy feeling, with Eurodance beats, happy melodies, uplifting lyrics and a nod to my childhood memories from the 90s – including legacy home computer multimedia, videogames, europop and eurodance music, and hi-fi tweaking (I was so happy everytime I saw a vinyl turntable, cassette and CD player in an all-in-1 system). Electronic Happy Dreamer is how I define myself: I still want to keep these memories alive in my music – and connect to the people who had a childhood similar to mine” Which record are you the most proud of, and why? “Rainbow Lights, with Japanese producer M-Project and American singer-songwriter Zoe VanWest. I’m so proud of it because when I saw Zoe performing it at MetroCon 2012, people loved it and even singed it along. She still keep telling me this record is an evergreen!” Not only will HPTG music throw an awesome party, but also release an album, with tracks by the people behind this new collective. Can you explain to those who are interested why they should purchase this album? “Our music is about a pure art expression form, not following any actual fad or trend. We want to keep this expression going on, and by purchasing the music (or supporting it through Spotify and Soundcloud) you’re helping our mission, and we can deliver better music in future!” When will the album be released, and will there be clips online? “The album will be released March 24th – alongside the event, and it will be available on Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, SoundCloud, TrackItDown, JunoDownload, and many more outlets.” Back to the event. It’s obviously a big thing, to arrange such a party. Why is it, that I’ve left the country (the Netherlands) and now it’s starting to become big? “Happy Hardcore is starting to spread again after the amazing support is getting from the United States, even in a mainstream channel.” The entry is free. Is there a dresscode? “As said before, Ravekick will be not having any dress codes or anything like that.” What are the future plans for HPTG music? Any plans yet for future events? “We are aiming at making more events around Central Europe and more compilation albums.” Thanks to Daniel Seven for this short but interesting interview. Make sure you are in Dordrecht on the 24th of March, where all the fun is going to be. With a very cool line-up, you won’t be disappointed. Also make sure you check out Daniel Seven on several social media outlets and the new label/collective HPTG! With their approach to UK Hardcore/Happy Hardcore, they will become the next best thing! HPTG Music – Facebook Fanpage HTPG Music – Ravekick Event Page HTPG Music – Soundcloud Page HPTG Music – Twitter Page Alaguan – Soundcloud Page Daniel Seven – Soundcloud Page Ranzor – Soundcloud Page Triplestar DJ – Soundcloud Page Vauboy – Soundcloud Page Viewtifulday – Soundcloud Page Xio-3 – Soundcloud Page And, as another bonus, here’s Daniel Seven and Triplestar’s latest release ‘S.P.A.G.H.E.T.’, which you can get for free from Soundcloud!

If there’s one artist I’ve been looking out for, it’s ATTLAS. And yet I’ve completely forgotten about him. Am I a fan? Yes. His previous mixes were so amazing, they blew my mind away, and I have listened to them at least once a week. So the amount of plays on Soundcloud can mostly be credited to me. But I haven’t seen his latest mix, which was released last year in December! How stupid am I? I’m so fascinated about his previous mixes, and I’ve missed this one completely. That’s a shame. Don’t know why I decided to go to his Soundcloud page today at work, but I was in search for something calm and relaxing, and yes, there was a brand new mix! Storyline Volume 2! Volume 1 was breathtakingly beautiful, so would 2 be as good, or even better? Better. This man combines music with films, and the combination is just astonishing! He takes your breathe away. I don’t know what his secret formula is, but it’s worth its value in gold! This is valuable, a commodity that many artists would like to have, but not one has. It’s so darn good, it becomes emotional, even after hearing it for the first time. He starts off with an amazing intro, and the music just flows through your speakers towards you. Instead of being hit with angry fists in your face, this feels like someone’s hugging you constantly, protecting you from the angry side of life. That’s how I feel during an ATTLAS mix. Embraced by his mix, and it won’t let me go. Another mix added to my ‘favourites’. And will at least have 10k plays by me. Just me. This is so addictive. 01. Lambert – As Ballad 02. Johan Johansson – Kangaru 03. Booka Shade – In White Rooms (Hunter/Game Remix)  04. Max Cooper – Organa 05. Joris Voorn – Sweets For Piano 06. ATTLAS – Colours 07. Rival Consoles – Slow Song 08. Grandbrothers – Prologue (DJRum Remix)  09. Two People – If We Have Time (Ryan Davis Remix)  10. Percussions – Digital Apreggios 11. Slow Hearts – Sub 37 12. ATTLAS – Shadow Play 13. Eagles & Butterflies – Kolleckt 14. Lambert – Stay In The Dark 15. Four Tet – Gillie Amma, I Love You 16. Clavis – Alcine 17. ATTLAS – Bloodwork 18. ATTLAS – Ryat 19. ATTLAS – 86cc 20. DJ Raff – Completed 21. Phantogram – You Don’t Get Me High Anymore (ATTLAS Remix)  22. ATTLAS – Thanks I don’t have a clue who 85% of these artists are, but for once I’m not bothered about the names. The music means more to me, and does the most for me. And boy, this is really a mix we’ve been waiting for. 70k+ listeners so far, and yet no one I know recognizing his name. He’s to me a truly gifted and talented DJ and producer. Someone who’s capable of touching hearts without any effort. The combination of music and films just works astonishingly good, and the way he does it, I haven’t seen before. Yes, people make music with bits from films in it, but the way ATTLAS does it, it’s scary. How does he do that? How does he make it work? I don’t know which films these bits are from, and I don’t care. ATTLAS, you are a hero to me. From the first to the last second you take me on a ride throughout musical heaven, and the feeling it generates can not be topped by anything else. I like many styles, and most of the times I listen to harder, rougher and tougher music, but ATTLAS’ mixes are just untouchable. They make me loose myself. I feel more human. Can’t pick a favourite, because it’s the combination that you need to think of, and in my case judge. The whole mix, it’s pure heaven. ATTLAS must have been sent from heaven, because only angels can make a mix work like he does. ATTLAS, thank you. I don’t need drugs or alcohol to get me high. Your mix does that without despair. Are you an angel? DJ: ATTLAS Genre/Style: Tech House, Mellow, Electronic Dance Music, Dance, Progressive House Mix Info: Storyline: Vol. 2 Length Mix: 00:57:31 Tracks: 22 (twenty-two) Download/Listen (via Soundcloud): DOWNLOAD/LISTEN File Size: unknown File Type: unknown Bitspeed: unknown More Information: ATTLAS – Facebook Fanpage

Been offline for a couple of days to ‘enjoy’ the heat, and already people were getting angry for me not uploading a review. Well, I do apologise, but sometimes I’m busy. But for those impatient people I found a nice set to break the week with! A proper Hardcore set by the megamix master Bass-D, recorded back in 2014 at Eden Rave – The Reunion. I’ve never heard of this event before (or maybe I have, but my mind is clouded with nonsense), but for this event the line-up looked tremendously good! You had the oldskool legends all in the Central Studios in Utrecht: The Masochist, Mental Theo, Panic, Bass-D (of course!), The Viper, Buzz Fuzz, Petrov, Paralizer, Gizmo, TMC, Rob & MC Joe, Yves Deruyter, Stanton, Ricos, Francois, Genius, Ton TB, and MC Alee. Now that’s a beautiful line-up, and it would have been worth it to go there. Sadly I can’t go back in time, but thankfully we’ve got Soundcloud to remind us of the wonderful night we’ve sadly missed. Bass-D’s set contains the finest of the finest records, carefully selected and mixed together. Expect madness! 01. The Stunned Guys – Deep Impact 02. Distortion & MC Raw vs Bass-D & King Matthew – Raveworld Part 2 03. Rotterdam Terror Corps – We’re Gonna Blow Your Mind 04. Rotterdam Terror Corps – The Horror 05. Tschabos – Gib Mir Die Bass 06. Bass-D & King Matthew – In The Mix 07. E-Rush – Scream 08. Hardsequencer – Brain Crash 09. The Rizzler – More Pain Outside The First World 10. Inferno Bros – Slaves To The Rave 11. Sequential One – Dance (Part II Remix)  12. Too Fast For Mellow – We Gonna Get This Place 13. Isaac – Bad Dreams (Remix)  14. Turbulence ’n Terrorist – 6 Million Ways To Die 15. J.D.A. – Voel Je Die Bass 16. Ectomorph – Heartbeat 17. Brooklyn Boyz – That’s How I’m Livin’ 18. Omar Santana – Wizard Of ‘Oh 19. Paul Elstak – Luv U More (Stunned Guys Remix)  20. 50% Of The Dreamteam – B With U 21. Isaac – Bass & Sound 22. The Coalition – 9MM 23. Bio-Forge – Turbulence 24. Party Animals – Have You Ever Been Mellow (Tekno Mafia Mix)  25. Lunalotic – Happyhouse 26. Highlander – Hold Me Now ’97 27. Cyclopede – Bad Motherfucker 28. Masters Of Ceremony – Hardcore To Da Bone (Masters Of Ceremony Dope Remix)  29. Paul Elstak – Rockin’ Beats 30. Delirium – Surrender Your Dreams He has got an impressive collection, this Bass-D. And he’s been active in the scene, so you would expect an amazing tracklist, and he has done it. Some maybe a bit too cheesy from time to time (like the whole back catalogue of DJ Isaac lol), but also the finer records like ‘6 Million Ways To Die’, ‘Hold Me Now ’97’, ‘Surrender Your Dreams’, and more. You can always count on Bass-D to compose a wicked tracklist. These take me right back to the wonderful days, and Bass-D behind the decks always is a good thing. He always delivers, and makes sure the fans are treated the way they should be. And he’s passionate, that’s also another thing you might have noticed. Maybe a bit too passionate from time to time: it’s not always 100% perfect, but can you blame him? Nah, not really. The best record in this set has got to be ‘6 Million Ways To Die’, just the perfect rag plaat. The perfect Hardcore record to get the crowd go absolutely bonkers. Closely followed by ‘Wizard Of ‘Oh’. That’s also a wicked record. Not his finest set, but still hugely enjoyable. Sit back and enjoy! DJ: Bass-D Genre/Style: Hardcore, Gabber, Happy Hardcore Liveset Info: Recorded @ Eden Rave – The Reunion Length Liveset: 00:55:49 Tracks: 30 (thirty) Download/Listen (via Soundcloud): LISTEN HERE File Size: unknown File Type: unknown Bitspeed: unknown More Information: Bass-D – Facebook Fanpage

2017 was the year we all saw a new phenomena come to life: the Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz became an act, and their mission was to fuck us up. For those who are unaware who they are, you will only find out if you buy this magestic album. Anway, this new phenomena took over the world by storm. Even though we were not ready for their greazy mission, we have all embraced them, and made their music our own. We welcomed them, and now they are slowely taking over the world, playing at shitloads of events. But talking about them, let me point out something you might have missed: the GPF album! You might not be a romantic person, we understand, and when you saw the ad on Facebook, you might have thought it was yet another stupid Valentines day present no-one wanted to get. You are wrong! As you would expect, it’s an album filled with ridicilous anthems, that don’t make any sense. But they are our guilty pleasures. Who never wanted to hear a Madonna song with a ridicilous kick underneath it? We have had that phase back in the 90s, when everything music related was remixed into a Happy Hardcore anthem, and now, 2010s, it’s all gone up a notch. The kicks are rougher, the bass is filthy, and that’s what we all need. And we all want to dance, 24/7. And if you are in a relationship, you want to bang uglies. You want to get some. And this album is for those who are doing it. I’m talking about sex, if you were unaware of what I was implying. The album comes with 14 DJ friendly anthems, and one DJ mix. And a condom. Well, the GPF boys want us to stay safe, and catch no diseases. Which other act has ever done that? Ever bought an album which came with protection? That shows us all they care. And want us to have sex. Sex is important. And keeping the reproducing elements of your bodies nice and lubricated. And why not hear these fucking wicked anthems coming at you through your speakers, whilst you are coming hard as hell? In a sock or a human being, whatever floats your boat. Let me show you the tracklist. And you sickos out there, you want to see it. It’s fucking epic! 01. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Lovin’ Ain’t Greazy 02. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Puppet Fuckerz 03. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Greazy Fuckdrum 04. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz feat Caine – Kendal Fuck 05. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – We No Fuck 06. Sjammienators & Ysiss – Boogie Woogie (GPF Remix)  07. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Kicks Out For Harambe 08. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz feat Omkara – Going In Dry 09. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz feat Mind Compressor – Spaghetti Love 10. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Fuck Me Daddy 11. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz feat Toxic Inside – Fuck Breaks 12. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Tardegdy 13. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – We Feel Like A Fuck 14. Malice & Rooler – Aggressive Acts (GPF Remix)  15. Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Lovin’ Ain’t Greazy (Sexy Album Mix) Ain’t that one sexy album, eh? Doesn’t this make you horny as hell? You want to bump uglies now, eh? Well, I’m not stopping you, just cum back once you’ve reproduced. The promotion regarding this album has been insanely good. An album focussed on making love, and also not catching diseases, released around Valentine’s Day. That’s good promotion. To be fair, their masks might turn you off, but let the music guide you towards the bedroom, not their appearance. Truth be told, I’ve had exes who looked worst. Anyway, the album. What do you get? As I said before, 14 records and one DJ mix. The records sadly are all too short. but it does throw a punch. This wasn’t what I was expecting. And I don’t even know if I can describe what GPF’s mission is. Or what kind of music they make. It says ‘Hardcore’ on Discogs, but this is something different. It contains bits from every style, from Speedcore/Terror to Hardcore to Hardstyle, and the odd pop reference. And it works, it bloody well works. You might think taking Steps’ ‘Tragedy’ and putting a kick underneath might not work…. well, it doesn’t. But strangely it’s satisfying. I’ve had this album on for hours in a row, and it didn’t make me feel bad. It made me feel extremely good, and made me want to loose myself. And I started swearing even more. Well, that’s one of their notable things: using a well known ‘fuck’ in each and every track. Wouldn’t this sound great at someone’s funeral? Starting off with a nice pop bit, and when the beat kicks in unnotified, everyone starts screaming, and having panic attacks. That would be an amazing feeling. Maybe I will put one of these records on my playlist, just to let the people know I will go out with a bang! Anyway, the album is a success. They came, they saw, and conquered. Their mission is clear, they want to enter your eardrums, and your lady’s underpants. It’s the funniest album of 2018. Nothing can compete. Just look at the amount of plays they’ve got on Soundcloud for these records, it shows the world is ready for the Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz. We might need some lube to get ready for them penetrating us hard, but once it’s in, you will get used to it! Ps. the album mix is also good, but would you have expected anything else? Act: Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz & Various Artists Genre/Style: Puzzcore, Hardcore, Rawstyle Release Year: 2018 Album Info: GPF – Lovin’ Ain’t Greazy CDs: 1 (one) Length CD: 01:18:37 Tracks: 15 (fifteen) Label: gpf recordz Product Number: GPFCD001 More Information: Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz – Facebook Fanpage

When you get a CD in your physical inbox, it always makes you smile. Last week I received two, one was the exclusive album by GPF (Greazy Puzzy Fuckerz), and the other was by MC Thunda’s, his last ‘Lyrical Convict’ instalment. It came with a nice flyer, but I didn’t know what was going to happen. Many people, are receiving the album, started sharing the album in selfies. The flyer played a huge part of it. But what wondered me, was if this was going to be the last thing we will ever hear from MC Thunda? And the answer is ‘no’. Hell no. This CD contains not only him, but also his fellow MCs. That’s what makes this CD even better: he wasn’t on his own. Let me name the MCs, and before you start dribbling, let me warn you; he asked the biggest names out there! MC Enemy, Wotsee, Rafta, Eruption, Domer, Skatty, B, and Octane! This brought a bigger smile on my face, and I reckon MC Thunda secretly smiled too (in a room where no-one can see him smile). I’ve never actually seen him smile on a picture. He looks so serious, but this is also his mission with the Lyrical Convict mix series: he’s bringing the heat to the listeners. And you get all that for only £6.00. How’s that for an early Christmas present? Here’s the tracklist. But, seeing as I was asked not to share it, it’s a mystery! 01. Unknown – Unknown 02. Unknown – Unknown 03. Unknown – Unknown 04. Unknown – Unknown 05. Unknown – Unknown (Unknown Remix)  06. Unknown & Unknown – Unknown 07. Unknown – Unknown 08. Unknown feat Unknown – Unknown 09. Unknown – Unknown 10. Unknown & Unknown feat Unknown – Unknown Could be more records being played, but they are mystery records to me too. So I can’t share anything with you lot yet. What you do get, is fire. This album should come with a warning: you might burn yourself once you press play. Who doesn’t want to hear these wonderful MCs on one mixtape? He starts off slowely with a nice dance anthem, but don’t you worry; he wil play the UK Hardcore soon. Jumping from UK Hardcore to Powerstomp, and even though I know the anthems, I can’t remember the names. Too many names are already in my head, there’s no room for more! But MC Thunda starts off nicely, and makes sure the listener is pleased by his skills. And he’s got skills. He’s one of those MCs who never disappoints, and who knows what to say, when to say it. And he keeps it real, as the youngsters would say. He uses his experience in life as his guidance throughout this mixtape, and you get a short history lesson in his life. Hence why I said he’s keeping it real. No bullshit, you wanted a mixtape which is true to the core. The music is fitting, the lyrics are really banging. And with a whole lot of his mates on this mixtape, you get a mixtape so damn good, one we’ve been missing out on a lot. I hope that he will come back with something new, and refreshing. We need something as dope as this. The last of this instalment, but not the last we will hear from MC Thunda! Get your copy right now. Check out the link underneath, and before you know it, the album is yours! MC: Thunda and Enemy, Wotsee, Rafta, Eruption, Domer, Skatty, B, Octane Genre/Style: UK Hardcore, Happy Hardcore, Powerstomp Release Year: 2018 CD Info: Lyrical Convict – The Finale by MC Thunda CDs: 1 (one) Length CD: 00:45:17 Tracks: unknown Label: unknown Product Number: unknown Buy Here (via MC Thunda’s Facebook Page): BUY HERE More Information: MC Thunda – Facebook Fanpage

Back in 2002 I went to Sensation White with a few friends from the place I worked, NedCar. They were into Trance music, and were talking about this event like it was going to be the best night of our lives. Everyone dressed in white, and a night filled with Trance music, in the Amsterdam Arena. Well, I really wanted to go with them, but the tickets were sold out. To cut a long story short: I bought a train ticket, went with my friends to Amsterdam, walked around the Arena, trying to spot someone who sold a ticket, and as luck might have it, I found someone. Scared that it might be a fake ticket, I walked to the entrance (at the complete oppossite side of where my friends were), and got in! I was a happy bunny, but not happy when I realised that I would never be able to find my friends, if literally everyone was dressed in white. Took half an hour to find them, in this wonderful setting. But once the gang was complete, the party could start! The line-up was impressive. And even though I was a full on raver (Hardcore/Gabber), I was digging the Trance and House scene. The names were: Armin van Buuren, Erick E, Jean, Johan Gielen and Marcello. What more do you need? And the wonderful thing is, that I just realised that this event took place nearly 16 years ago! My sweet Lord, time has flown by, but I can still remember the event like it was yesterday! So many good memories, even on the way back from Amsterdam to Heerlen. The train journey was even messy. To me this event holds a lot of memories, and it was a ground breaking event, and has set the bench mark for the whole Dance scene. Do this, or go home. The CD that followed this event is still one amazing mix CD. I bought it when it became available, and have cherrished it since. Even took it to my holiday in Greece, and made the Greeks aware of this event. But what an epic event this was, and the CD holds memories of me in my bedroom with my first portable CD player which didn’t skip (but secretly did). Let me show you the beautiful tracklist! CD 1  01. Sensation Intro – Fairytale 02. DJ Tiësto – Magik Journey 03. G-Spott – G-Licious 04. Perpetuous Dreamer – Dub Wav 05. 4 Strings – Diving 06. Tastexperience – Highlander (Ralphie B’s Massive Mix)  07. Midway – Monkey Forest 08. DJ Albert vs DJ Precision – Say Yes 09. Khemistry – Lights Of Fire 10. The Mystery – Devotion (Tatana Remix)  11. Aquanuts – Deep Sea (Martin Eyerer Remix)  12. Roger Goode – In The Beginning Again (Ferry Corsten Remix)  13. Project Medusa vs Exor – Moonshine (Symphony Of Strings Remix)  14. Driftwood – Freeloader 15. The Thrillseekers – Dreaming Of You (Svenson & Gielen Remix)  16. Shane – Too Late To Turn (Armin van Buuren Remix)  17. Sensation Outro – Do You Believe CD 2  01. Sensation Intro – Rulerz Of The Empire 02. Trilithon – Dagio 03. Armin van Buuren – Sunburn 04. M.O.R.P.H. – Consequence (Benicio Remix)  05. Rank 1 – Awakening 06. Art Of Trance – Madagascar (Cygnus X Remix)  07. The Future Sound Of London – Papua New Guinea (Marco V Remix)  08. C.Rea.Tive – Josephine 2002 (Delirious Instrumental Mix)  09. Matanka – Lost In A Dream (Push Remix)  10. Sensation – The Anthem 2002 (Johan Gielen Remix)  11. Marco V – Simulated (Marco’s V.Ision Mix)  12. Energy 52 – Cafe Del Mar (Marco V Remix)  13. Signum – Second Wave 14. DJ Tiësto – In My Memory (Airwave Remix)  15. Mo’Hawk – Atlantic Stress 16. Pale-X – Beautiful Journey 17. Sensation Outro – Our Church Even today, in 2018, I’m getting goosebumps. It’s a serious thrill, to hear these beautiful anthems again. Look at the quality of the tunes, and I reckon even the youngest of ravers knows the classic anthems like ‘Papua New Guinea’, ‘Cafe Del Mar’, ‘Freeloader’, ‘Consequence’ etc. They were ground breaking in 2002, and they still made the dancefloors tremble. These were, and still are, the biggest anthems of a generation! This CD is one of those, if your house in on fire, I would run into it and save. This one and the following: Innercity 2001, Mysteryland 1998 Outdoor, Mysteryland 1994, Goldie – Inner City, Rielism 4, and the reason why is only known by me. These hold the most memories, and even though I lost the entry tickets, my memories last a life time. The tracks on each disc are amazing! The only annoying thing is the remix by Johan Gielen of the Sensation Anthem. The original is way better, and still don’t understand why they used his version? A tremendous party, and a wicked CD. Those were the days. Trance music dominated everything. ID&T were literally at the forefront of EDM, and they’ve left a good impression on me. Best record? I can’t pick. They are all great. Artist: Various Artists Genre/Style: Trance, Hard Trance, Progressive Trance Release Year: 2002 Album Info: Sensation White 2002 CDs: 2 (two) Length CDs: +/+ 2 hours Tracks: 34 (thirty-four) Label: ID&T Product Number: 7005262 More Information: Sensation – Official Website

The other day I got tagged in a post on Facebook, and it was done by Nico Suffis. You know, the man who really really loves Trance music. He made this dedication mix for Giuseppe Ottaviani, and as you are all aware, I’m a fan of this Italian superstar DJ/producer. So it was an obvious reason why I got tagged in this dedication mix. Thanks Nico for that. But this is not his first dedication mix: other mixes were for Aly &Fila, Bryan Kearney, John O’Callaghan, Tiesto, and many more. He’s an active DJ, this Nico. And we can only salute him for doing that. This mix is all about the Italian superstar, Giuseppe Ottaviani. The legend. I’m seriously impressed with everything this man does, and also look at every livestream/video I can. You can see someone with a lot of passion and dedication, sharing the music to a audeince who are willing to get intoxicated by it. For this mix he selected quite a few records, and the end result is a nearly 4 hour long mix. Now that’s exactly what I wanted to hear on this lovely Sunday. I’ve pressed play the second I got up, and I’ve already had it on repeat once. But I won’t stop listening. This Sunday is all about Giuseppe. The tracklist is something else. Check it out! 01. First State feat Sarah Howells – Reverie (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  02. Markus Schulz & Emma Hewitt – Safe From Harm (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  03. Giuseppe Ottaviani & Kyler England – Firefly (OnAir Mix)  04. Giuseppe Ottaviani feat Tricia McTeague – Loneliest Night (OnAir Mix)  05. Giuseppe Ottaviani & Jennifer Rene – Home (OnAir Mix)  06. Giuseppe Ottaviani feat Jennifer Rene – Lean On Me 07. John O’Callaghan feat Lo-Fi Sugar – Never Fade Away (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  08. Giuseppe Ottaviani with Aly & Fila – Brilliant People 09. Lawrence Palmer – Streamline (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  10. DJ Feel & Aurosonic feat Ale Haze – Feel (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  11. Giuseppe Ottaviani – No One Like You 12. RAM feat Stine Grover – Forever And A Day (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  13. Maria Healy – Desiderata (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  14. Paul van Dyk feat Sue McLaren – Lights (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  15. Sean Mathews – Paradise (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  16. Tom Colantonio – Mercury Retrograde (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  17. Giuseppe Ottaviani feat Faith – Angel (Vandit Night Mix)  18. Giuseppe Ottaviani – Danceology 19. John O’Callaghan feat Erica Curran – I Believe (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  20. Solarstone & Indecent Noise – Quercia (Giuseppe Ottaviani Extended Rework)  21. Solarstone & Meredith Call – I Found You (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  22. Giuseppe Ottaviani & Andrea Mazza – The Silence Of Time (OnAir Mix)  23. John O’Callaghan & Giuseppe Ottaviani – Ride The Wave 24. Sean Tyas – Reach Out (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  25. Giuseppe Ottaviani – Aurora (OnAir Mix)  26. Activa & Giuseppe Ottaviani – Long Way Back (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  27. Sly One vs Jurrane – Everything To Me (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  28. Sneijder & Giuseppe Ottaviani – Nero 29. Rafael Osmo – Renaissance (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  30. APD – Inscribe (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  31. Giuseppe Ottaviani – Legacy 32. Giuseppe Ottaviani – Jakarta 33. Sean Tyas & Giuseppe Ottaviani – Plan B 34. Digital Dreamerz – Perception (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  35. Maestro & Christine Tran – Ocean Tides (Giuseppe Ottaviani Remix)  36. Giuseppe Ottaviani feat Amba Sheperd – Lost For Words (OnAir Mix)  37. Giuseppe Ottaviani & Betsie Larkin – Toys (OnAir Mix)  38. Solarstone with Giuseppe Ottaviani – Falcons (Giuseppe Ottaviani OnAir Mix) It’s not often that a mix blows me away completely from the start, but we are talking about a mix containing records by Giuseppe Ottaviani, I would not have expected otherwise. He’s such a superstar, and he makes the most gorgeous sounding Trance music out there, it’s hard to believe that he’s not in the top 10 of the DJMag100. And if he is, I’m sorry, but I have not paid any attention to that list lol. Anyway, Nico made this beautiful mix. As I said nearly 4 hours long, but those 4 hours do fly by. It’s true, when you are having fun, time does fly by. And when accompanied by awesome music, it’s makes it all worth while. It has shortened the weekend, but it has also provided me with music for my work journeys every day. This shows us all how much Giuseppe loves making music, and whatever he makes, turns into Gold. To me the best record has got to be ‘Legacy’. This is a serious dancefloor divider: only those strong enough can handle the strength of this song. And I’m one of them. I can not turn the volume down when this song is on. This is so powerful, but so are all the other 37 records in this mix. Nico, credit for your mix. And Giuseppe, credit for you, for making the best Trance music out there. Keep them coming to us. We need more Giuseppe. Check out Nico’s Soundcloud page for hours of Trance music. DJ: Nico Suffis Genre/Style: Trance, Uplifting Trance Mix Info: Massive Tribute Mix To Giuseppe Ottaviani Length Mix: 03:41:16 Tracks: 38 (thirty-eight) Download/Listen (via Soundcloud): DOWNLOAD/LISTEN File Size: 506 MB File Type: mp3 Bitspeed: 320kbps More Information: Nico Suffis – Soundcloud Page

Jason S, also known as the megamix master, has released the third instalment of his succesful ‘Holland Is Hardcore’ mix series. Only a month ago he released his ‘Thunderdome Chapter 1 – 10 Megamix’, and before that the previous ‘Holland Is Hardcore’ mix was back in 2016. And it got a very good score from TCD. It was something unique: his unique mixing style and the records selected made it very tasty. A very interesting concept, and now the new instalment will blow you away. If you want to know what happened with the second instalment: check him out on Mixcloud. Not only will you find the second one (which is pre-millennium Dutch Hardcore) but also other mixes, like a dedication mix for Neophyte, and much more. It’s a raver’s paradise, that’s for sure. For many years he has been perfecting his unique mixing style, and it has led up to this: the appreciation he deserves. Don’t know much about Jason S himself, but he gets my respect. And not just because he mixes Dutch Hardcore records (with Dutch lyrics/vocals), but because he makes the mixes sound so relaxed, so smooth. The previous mix was just my cup of tea: Thunderdome records from the first to the tenth CD, all together. But now he’s back with the Dutch-ness of Hardcore. You might not like it, seeing as it’s all in Dutch, and we (the Dutch) have a weird vocabulary, quite different to the rest of the world, so you will probably not understand the lyrics, but you should focus on the music. And the music is good. So good, we will breek de tent af (break the tent of). Well, it goes for the wind for Jason (het gaat voor de wind voor Jason). 01. Jason S – Intro: Leren Miksen Les 3 02. Je Broer – Me Gabber (DJ Paul Elstak & BeatKrusher Remix)  03. Outblast & Catscan – Stampgevaar 04. JeBroer feat Stepherd, Skinto & Jayh – Banaan (Re-Style Remix)  05. D-Fence – Koekoek Jonghuh! 06. DJ JDA – Voel Je Die Bass (N-Vitral Quick Edit)  07. D-Fence – BIEM! 08. D-Fence – Krakaka (Tieurm Remix)  09. Dyprax – Zultkoppen Koorts 10. Nosferatu feat Alee, LXCPR & Diesel – LOS! (SSZD Kingsday Anthem 2017)  11. Neophyte & D-Fence with Tim & Alee – Rammen 12. Kasparov & Amada feat Diesel – Ik Wil Stampen 13. The BeatKrusher feat Alee – Lekker Knetter 14. Kasparov, System Shock & Revolver feat Zwaargewicht – Poeder In Je Neusgat 15. Tieum & D-Fence – Beter He 16. The BeatKrusher – Helemaal De Weg Kwijt 17. Neophyte & Furyan feat Tim Beumers – Wie De Fok? 18. D-Fence & Angernoizer – Breek De Tent Af 19. N-Vitral feat Aux Raus – Getverherrie 20. D-Fence – B.A.M. 21. Popeye De Zeeman – Het Stalken Moet Stoppen 22. System Overload vs Da Mouth Of Madness – Sloopkick 23. Minus Militia – Gas D’r Op (Militant Edit)  24. SRB – More Dutchcore 25. Tieum & Angernoizer – Alles Is Heftig 26. SRB – Doedelzakorkest 27. Euromasters – He Scheids! Schop ‘M Voor Z’n Klote (Remix)  28. SRB – Doe Rustig 29. SRB & The Vizitor – Kut Track 30. Angernoizer – Luid En Duidelijk This, as you can rightly see, is a proper Dutch tracklist. Not often do I write track titles in Dutch, but today the focus is on Dutch Hardcore, and it’s making me go absolutely loopy. I’ve played this mix over and over after work (on my way home from work), and it still makes me smile: being Dutch and listening to Dutch Hardcore in London. What a weird combination, isn’t it? There are simply too many wicked records in here. Like every track made by D-Fence (who literally owns the Dutch Hardcore sound at the moment), and a few records like ‘Poeder In Je Neusgat’, ‘Gas D’r Op’, ‘Wie De Fok?’ and more. During the 90s the Dutch Hardcore sound (cq. Dutch lyrics in Hardcore tracks) didn’t make me move whatsoever. I found them boring and not as sensual as the records with English lyrics. But now, in 2018, I’m digging the Dutch sound like never before. It’s my connection with my homeland, my place of birth. Jason’s mix is interesting. He starts off with his wicked intro (isn’t that MC Drokz screaming?), and the beats, bass, and lyric come flying at you for the next hour and 11 minutes. He carefully mixes them all together, and at no point does it become dull or annoying. Which record makes me want to ‘hakkûh’ the most? ‘BIEM!’. Why? Because it’s a well produced record with a basic thought: making the ravers stomp the shit out of everything. I’ve got no urge to sit down and relax whenever I hear this record. Another succesful mix by Jason S. You must check him out on Mixcloud: it’s indeed a raver’s paradise! DJ: Jason S Genre/Style: Hardcore, Gabber, Uptempo Mix Info: Holland Is Hardcore 3 Length Mix: 01:11:25 Tracks: 30 (thirty) Download/Listen (via Mixcloud): LISTEN HERE File Size: unknown File Type: unknown Bitspeed: unknown More Information: Jason S – Mixcloud Page

If you are a raver, you must have seen his name before. This mysterious DJ, radio producer, music blogger and promoter has become a well established name in the industry, and has created a platform on which he showcases his love for everything 90s Rave related. He’s been pushing the oldskool sound forward, and his dedication and enthusiasm has led him being recognised by big names in the game. This will be the first time I interview a fellow blogger, but obviously a more interesting one than yours truly. Sit back and enjoy the conforting words from the one and only GL0WKiD! GL0WKiD, πώς είσαι? “Γειά σου Martin, all fine in here;  preparing myself for summertime! Hope you’re fine too mate.” I know that the majority of people don’t know who’s behind the name, but could you explain who GL0WKiD is, and what he does? And more to the point, where the name comes from? “Well, GL0WKiD is my 7 year old project born by my avid passion for radio, music & writing expressed on different angles. It’s my proud artistic part and I’d say in overall that I’m just a humble normal guy, who’s probably a little bit more passionate and 24/7 digger in music than others hahaha. Regarding the roots of the name, it’s a combination of 80’s/90’s superheroes, rave air and that ‘forever young’ spirit. In a few words, emphasis on positive vibes… So, all of these elements are still glowing inside me and hopefully will last for long enough.” You are from Athens, the lovely Athens. And you are a fan of the Oldskool Rave sound. That’s kind of unique, seeing as I would not have thought Rave music would be big in Greece. On your website you state that this character started back in 2011, but the roots, that’s what I’m interested in: when did you hear Rave music for the first time, and can you remember what the actual first tune was? “I still remember myself listening to various local radio stations from the age of 8 around, born for real into music while also focusing on specific shows playing out from Pop and EuroHouse to Trance or Happy Hardcore. Big fan also of good old MTV too. First rave vibes that infected me, were tunes like ‘Out of Space’ & ‘No Good’ by The Prodigy then ‘Age of Love’ anthem, Komakino’s ‘Outface’ or ‘L.A. Style – James Brown Is Dead’ and ‘Can’t Stop Raving’ by Dune. I can admit that ‘No Good’ has transferred me to another dimension (although ‘Out Of Space’ teaches that). By this anthem, I’ve completely entered into The Prodigy world, additionally I’ve opened my horizons discovering new music apart from the Eurotechno vibes I used to listen mostly back then.” A big name in the industry, and a huge The Prodigy Fanboy, but before we start delving into your work, I want to know when GL0WKiD was a real kid, what did you listen to? Who influenced you to become the person you are nowadays? “That’s a good question. Well I used to and I still listen to almost all types of Electronic music emphasizing to anything that’s uplifting and specifically everything started back then from Eurotechno/EuroHouse vibes. And I can now reveal that just before GL0WKiD birth, my previous project was on a duet with a girl where we’ve been reviving and breathing every single moment like 90s, having our radio shows, playing out Oldskool classics as well as participating on a few parties. So when this one ended, my current self project was born…” You wear a mask, to hide your identity. Is there a specific reason why you do that? “Hahaha! It all started from my radio love. And from this perspective, I define it like: back in my youth when I was listening to a radio show I was becoming one with the presenter without even knowing him or ever seen him or whatever. And this kind of magic, the magic of the unknown and the desire for discovery into something different like a travelling without moving trip fueled with innocence, is my main message. I still treat my life like in the 90s. Life is too short, we should not get depressed or angry with anything and anyone. Live it like Oldschool but call it Nuskool!” A big name, not only when it comes to blogging, but also radio presenter. A show called ‘Generation X’. You have had great response from literally the greatest in the scene, and you try to take down the barrier between the oldskool and nuskool sound. How did it come about, this radio show? Weren’t there enough show online already? “As already told you, everything started from my love to the value called ‘radio’. And you know what?! Everyone makes his own show, his own thing and that’s much respected of course, but there’s a huge fanbase and amount of people out there who appreciate that different approach of a show I’m doing over the years. It’s not just mixing or talking. It’s a complete radio show. Furthermore it’s educational as Matt, a good pal from Chicago, has described it. I’m 100% proud of Generation X [RadioShow].” A wide audience is captured by this, and you have been nominated as ‘Best Radio Show’ back in 2014. Within those 3 years you have done pretty well. Ever woke up and thought ‘this must be a dream’? “Definetely my nomination @ Breakspoll in 2014 was an absolute praise by all means and a good push forward to keep it up. It was followed successfully by entering into the Top 8 a year later as well. So before 2014, 3 years of hard work gave a straight pass to the next 4 years to harder work till present. I’ve stayed concentrated and simply keep doing what expresses me. It might sound crazy but I haven’t really thought of how big it is or how far it can get because everyday I wake up, I have a full notebook scheduled with different tasks to do within the scene.” Explain to everyone, who are unaware of the show, what the mission is of it? “The mission of Generation X [Radio Show] is to bridge the gap between Oldskool & Nuskool generation by the rhythms of Hardcore and uplifting Rave buzzers! Everytime, emphasized on different setlist, new labels, promos, guests mixes & exclusive radio interviews either with well established legends in the game or new blood and upcoming producers that are my personal standout in the scene… The show is a serious takeover to the evolution of Hardcore featuring from Hardcore Breaks to Happy Hardcore and Ravecore dishes. Back in 1991, Qbass has said that Hardcore will never die and it’s totally true to date. At present, I’m currently into some occassional special editions of my radio show, due to my busy schedule. Anyone can get informed by subscribing or following my socials.” You have interviewed many great names (and I’m jealous), like Marusha, Mark Archer, Billy Daniel Bunter, Ratpack, Luna-C, Liquid, Fat Controller, Casketkrusher, and the list goes on. How do you prepare yourself for such an interview, and how have the responses been from the fans? “So far, all of my Guests (around 50 in total) are people that I appeciate and admire a lot and that gives me extra motivation and pleasure to make a good Interview with them. It takes time because I’m a perfectionist and everything should be done professionally, because it’s not just a chat but an interview and all listeners or blog readers should learn something and inform themselves. Till now, fans response regarding the interviews is ideal. I’d share as an example my recent interview with German superstar Marusha; its length is a bit less than 40 minutes and after that all messages I’ve received from the listeners were full of joy and excitement. Most of them said in common that it was about the real ‘chemistry’ between myself & the interviewee and then about the topics we discussed and news that revealed. Last but not least, all of my Guests are picked not by accident but on the grounds of my support and preference to their work. I really like to push and promote all of them as much as it can get. Good for them is good for the scene!” Who’s the biggest artist you haven’t interviewed yet, and really want to interview? “Everyone is special but The Prodigy was the beginning for me… I still call them my ‘music religion’. That says it all!” You became more active back in 2013: you joined The Prodigy Fanboy team member. Now we all know who The Prodigy are, and how great they have been since the start. I’m also a fan of their earlier work (don’t really understand their ‘newer’ stuff) and have played their first three albums so much, scratches have made the album unplayable. But what’s your reason to join this club, and what’s the mission behind this fanclub? “The Prodigy Fanboy is almost a 10 years old large community founded by Danny an Aussie loyal Prodigy fan. I’ve been following this website from its early days and by the time I was doing some exclusive special radio shows dedicated to the band I got in touch with him and it was a matter of time joining Fanboy. Over the last 5 years I’m offering several website reviews as well as my Prodigy Fanboy Podcasts which have been still receiving great feedback from the fans. It’s a must to hear if you missing these, because it features anything around The Prodigy; from live versions to remixes, solo stuff, exclusive fan remixes etc. Needless to say that I love being involved on this role and promoting the band I love. Thanks to Fanboy which gave me this opportunity & appreciates my hard work.” Ok, quick fire question (well, I had to): best Prodigy record, and why? “‘Music For The Jilted Generation’ without any second thought. The reason is that Liam Howllet has correctly set up the right bridge between UK based Hardcore Breakbeat and German Techno as well as adding new elements of Punk attitude, experimenting more himself and forming step by step The Prodigy as a full band…” The Prodigy has been a huge inspiration to many in the scene, and they still demolish dancefloors/stages all over the world. Are they succesfull in Greece too? “It’s been 3 years since the last time they played in Greece and when they return everything will be on fire again to embrace the new album. Every Prodigy gig in here is always frenzy. These boys are suitable to provide the right warmth to our mediterranean substance. Even though that Russia is the No.1 force of Prodigy fans I can say that Greek fans have built the right chemistry & a very good relationship with the band over the years.” You have been to several Prodigy gigs, but what is so appealing to their performances? Why are they so unique and refreshing? “From a die hard Prodigy fan to a guy who hasn’t seen them before, the day of a Prodigy gig is something special because even though you can guess the setlist, you’re fueled with energy pumping from the immense beats of Liam accompanied by a storming performance from the others on stage. We live in times when we’ve run out of big Electronic live bands; and when a 30 yrs band keeps doing that and still touring all around that’s unique, noteworthy and musically healthy. In addition their new direction since ‘The Day Is My Enemy’ has refreshed themselves as its something that totally represents them 3, thus it’s welcomed by all crowded venues they play.” Talking about big things: you experienced something really good, playing at ‘Old Skool Festival 2016’ in Lodz, Poland, and you played amongst big names such as N-Joi, Rachel Wallace, Rozalla, General Levy, Nicky Blackmarket, and more. How did that come about, and how was the response from the crowd in Poland? “It was an amazing experience and finally I got the chance meeting in person many good friends from the web like Damage Inc. , Nefti, Oneplayz, Teknociziak, Simi, Greg Sin Key, Dymeq and of course the man who booked me, DJ Tornado. I have only good memories to share about this amazing weekender. I appreciate and love all Polish crew. Just to say that I’ve been calling this city like the Capital of Nu-Rave before visiting and living the Polish rave buzz. Lodz is full of talented people in arts and the music is a big part over there. Additionally they do know how to party hard with or without vodka hahaha!” Can you describe your set in three words? “Energetic – Uplifting – Multigenre” But we nearly forgot to mention the Strictly Nuskool Blog! You are a partner/manager and blogger/author of this wonderful website. For those unaware of what this blog does, can you elaborate on what it is that you all do? “Strictly Nuskool Blog is in the game over the last 5 years and I’m personally very happy & proud seeing how it’s evolved and helping also various producers/labels/promoters. It features exclusive content like interviews, reviews for newish releases as well as various podcasts/mixes. You should check the annual series of Hall of Fame mixes by myself & Tariq Ziyad done every December of each year. Apart from that, it’s also run as a free net label aiming to promote Nuskool artists. There are 36 releases so far including Singles, Eps and Album compilations all available on digital format. You can stream/download all releases here: https://thestrictlynuskoolblog.bandcamp.com/music All in all, it seems to me that our scene needs more blog entries like Strictly Nuskool or yours to step next to everything new in order to promote the continuation of the music we love. Have to send my shouts out to Tariq, BreakbeatScientist, Andro, 2Nzy and Ted, and hopefully more people will start something on their own for the good of Hardcore music.” You’ve had me on twice, naming my top 5 records of the year (I think it was back in 2015 and 2016). Now I’m going to ask you a very, very difficult question, and I hope you are ready for it: if you had to choose 5 records of all time, which ones would they be, and why? “Tough 1 because they’re tons of good stuff from different genres. For example I can opt a Depeche Mode album or even Bomfunk MCs debut… Alright. Since you asking this question I can mention 5 albums that come straight to my mind at the moment for different reasons. ‘The Prodigy – Music For The Jilted Generation’ = Already told you the reason. Top of everything for me! ‘The Chemical Brothers – Dig Your Own Hole’ = Godfathers of Big Beat and rocking attitude in Electronic music. This album makes does it for real! ‘Moby – Everything Is Wrong’  = Nothing can beat Moby’s 90s albums and everything is totally… correct on this versatile LP. ‘Altern-8 – Full On Mask Hysteria’  = The Rave Bible ‘2 Unlimited – No Limits!’ = 90s of innocence” Not only a blogger/author, DJ, manager/partner, but also a vlogger! You are indeed a very busy man. Why did you add vlogging to your already busy portfolio? “Early of this year I had this great idea launching something that has been missing nowdays from Hardcore and that is dealing with Video. Furthermore a videoshow of me doing what I’ve been doing on my radio shows over the years. So, #GLOWBUZZ was born. The result, especially on the second episode, is totally phenomenal and I’m inclined to say that there will be more like these because all Hardcore community is next to it and I need to offer more. There are people like Luna-C, Jay Cunning, Hyper On Experience, Liquid, DJ Faydz as well as many good friends from various labels, DJs & producers, all showing their love on my new project. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all kind words, feedback and love. Bigup goes also to Akrivi Kollia, the videomaker. We’ve spent many hours sorting out these videos and enjoying it quite a lot. The second episode is available to watch now including forthcoming Kniteforce Records 12” Eps by Gothica Shade, Liquid, Hyper On Experience & Pete Cannon.” We’re coming towards the end, so before we sign off, can you please tell the fans what’s happening in the near future: anything we should focus on? Any gigs/interviews planned? Any other business venture you would like to share with us? “I like a lot doing surprises and this is the reason I haven’t revealed in public the subject of #GLOWBUZZ second episode. When people noticed that ‘Forthcoming 12” material by Kniteforce” they got blinded!!! Well, there are some good things and fresh projects in the pipeline but the main big thing coming up is Unity In The Sun 2018 in the beautiful Greek island of Corfu, where I’ll attend, making a big review of this proper Hardcore & Jungle week plus getting some exclusive interviews for an upcoming radio show. Keep your eyes peeled for this one. Last but not least I’ve been contributing on the music selection of a live theatrical play and this is a big challenge. Certainly something interesting and new for me.” We know each other due to the work that we both do. And I’m being humble as always. But if you could give me clues/tips on how to improve my blog, what would they be? (I always want to learn from the master blogger) “Martin keep doing what expresses you mate. No rules, no anything in our emotions and expression on the music we love and represent. This message goes out to all. Express yourselves.” Last question, and it’s a simple one: when will we see the true GL0WKiD (meaning without the mask?). When will the world find out who’s behind it all? “Time will tell… Till then go with the glow!” A big thank you to my fellow blogger/music lover from Greece! Thanks for these interesting answers. If you are intriguid by his answers, you should, and I underline the following, check out his social media pages, which you can find underneath the interview. Also, as an added bonus, you can find two episodes of his succesful vlog! http://www.glowkidmusic.blogspot.com http://www.youtube.com/user/gl0wkid https://www.facebook.com/GENX.RADIOSHOW https://twitter.com/glowkidmusic https://www.mixcloud.com/GLOWKiD/ https://soundcloud.com/glowkidmusic http://www.strictlynuskool.blogspot.com http://www.theprodigyfanboy.com

As a blogger/reviewer you get the privileges to receive great music via multiple channels, but sometimes people remind you (without it being their fault) of a mistake you made back in the 90s. That’s exactly what happened with the following mix CD I am talking about: Mazzo Presents: Manic Monday, released in 1994. I remember this album really well: it’s the only album I did NOT buy back in the 90s. I have had this album in my hands in a record store called ‘Free Record Store’ in Heerlen, and I always thought I should buy this, just to give it a go, but I was never interested. I did not understand Oldkool music back then, I was a full on Hardcore/Gabber fanatic, and thought this album was not my cup of tea. Oh the irony: I am a huge Oldskool music lover now! Someone called Onderkoffer reminded me of this album, and I had a quick listen to it on Youtube, and realised that I made a huge mistake back in the 90s. I should have purchased this album. Why, you might ask? Well, it’s a fucking dope album! Mixed by two legends from the scene: DJ Dano and Jeroen Flamman.  Yep, the one from Flamman & Abraxas. And for those who were raving the night away during the 90s, a quick reminder of what Mazzo was: it was a club in Amsterdam, and every week they held a ‘Manic Monday’ night. Now this album is commemorating those nights. To get this album I could have bought it back in the 90s, which I didn’t. And to go now to Heerlen to the Free Record Store is a no-no, seeing as the company is bust. So the only way is Ebay, and thankfully I found a copy. A bit dirty and a few scratches, but still playable. Thanks Onderkoffer for making sure I would listen to a wonderful mix album. And now you all want to see the tracklist, right? CD 1  01. Hypnotist – Pioneers Of The Warped Groove 02. The Todd Terry Project – Back To The Beat 03. Casanova’s Revenge – Let’s Work 04. Bazz – House Of Pax 05. Joey Beltram – Energy Flash 06. Second Phase – Mentasm 07. Phuture – We Are Phuture 08. Fierce Rulling Diva – Whipped Kream 09. Eternal – Eternal 10. Photon – Doin’ Our Thang 11. DJ Doc Scott – Surgery 12. Tronikhouse – Uptempo 13. The Prodigy – Charly 14. Marusha – Rave Channel 15. Set Up System – Fairy Dust 16. Fierce Rulling Diva – Rubb It In 17. E-Rection – Smoke My Dang Along 18. Spawn – Tension 19. Robert Armani – A.M.B.U.L.A.N.C.E. 20. Tyree – Video Crash 21. Church Of XTC – XTC 22. NRG – Never Lost His Hardcore 23. Immaginazione – Musica Del Futuro 24. Gateway Experience – Twin Freaks 25. Edge Of Motion – Set Up 707 26. Tellurians – The Navigator 27. TD5 – Cyber Trance 28. Nico – The Scream 29. Circuit Breaker – Trac-K 30. Edge #1 – Compnded CD 2  01. Science Lab – Flesh & Blood 02. B Sides – Magic Orchestra 03. B Sides – Moribund (Remix)  04. Time Zone – Praise God 05. Da Posse – Searchin’ Hard 06. 2 In A Room – Somebody In The House (Say Yeah!!!) 07. Set Up System – Factory 08. Techno Grooves – Techno Slam 09. Space Trax – Atomic Playboy 10. Trancemission – No More Mindgames 11. Ace The Space – Nine Is A Classic (Ace The Space) 12. Overdog – Fuck You Up 13. The Mover – Nightflight 14. English Muffin – Ride 15. Mescalinum United – We Have Arrived 16. Monoton – Translated Realities 17. Nighttripper – Tone Exploitation 18. Altern8 – Activ 8 19. Kicks Like A Mule – The Bouncer 20. Inner City – Praise (United Mix)  21. The Prodigy – Android 22. Return Of The Living – Get Funky 23. Frequency – Kiss The Sky 24. CJ Bolland – Horsepower 25. Kicksquad – Soundclash 26. DHS – House Of God 27. Dr Kevorkian – Suicide Machine 28. D-Shake – Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah 29. Turntable Hype – Turntable Hype (A’Dam Mix)  30. Nico – So Light (On 45!) 31. Phrenetic System – Reality 32. English Muffin – You Should Have Been Smarter 33. O.S.P. – Ooooh Shit! Wowzers! What a tracklist! And to think that back in 1994 they already concidered this to be ‘oldskool’ music. Hence the bit on the front of the album “a first lesson in rave history”. Yeah, this is Rave history! Carefully mixed and selected by Dano and Flamman. Bloody Nora, this album is great. A bit of everything is in here. From Dutch classics to British anthems, and we all know how much I like British anthems. The first album is nice and relaxed, the second comes in harder than before. The focus on the second album is Hardcore, and boy, do they play the records hard. And it’s an unbelievable thing, this compilation. Both DJs have selected really cool records. And to think I left this on a shelf in a record store, what a stupid decision I made. But let’s not forget, I was born in 1983, I did not understand the power behind Rave music yet, I was 11 back in 1994 lol. So young and innocent. It’s a tremendous album. I can not underline the fact that this is a must have album. I do that with a permanent marker. This is everything ravers need to have. They’ve done their best to make this album work, and it has worked beautifully. I can not point out one thing wrong with it. The first disc’s best record…. simpel answer: ‘Circuit Breaker – Trac-k’. Brilliant record. Second disc’s best record ‘Nighttripper – Tone Exploitation’. Can’t go wrong with these two amazing records. So all in all a wonderful album. Thanks Onderkoffer for reminding me what a fool I have been in the 90s. But it’s never too late to hallucinate! DJs: Dano & Flamman Genre/Style: Hardcore, Acid, Techno Release Year: 1994 Album Info: A First Lesson In Rave History CDs: 2 (two) Length CDs: +/+ 2 hours Tracks: 63 (sixty-three) Label: EVA Product Number: 74321 246372 More Information: —————-

One of the events I really wanted to go to, was Thunderdome ’96. As a young lad Thunderdome dominated my youth, and the 1996 edition turned out to be one of the most talked about Thunderdomes ever. The response it had was tremendous, and even to this day it’s a well remembered night. On Partyflock 74% of the partygoers rated it as aweseom/excellent, and not one bad review. A night to remember, and for only ƒ 50,- you would experience the night of your life, with an incredible line-up: 50% of the Dream Team, Bass-D & King Matthew, Buzz Fuzz, Dana, Dano, Darkraver, Delirium, E-Rick, Gizmo, Hardcor, Neophyte, The Prophet, Uzi, Waxweazle, Weirdo, and 3 Steps Ahead. You cannot deny the feeling you just received after seeing that line-up. And that night had been captured on a CD, and released also in 1996. On the CDs you find livesets by Dano, The Prophet, Weirdo, Buzz Fuzz, Gizmo & The Dark Raver, and you find live recorded sets by Bass-D & King Matthew, 3 Steps Ahead, Neophyte, and Delirium. So nearly the whole night is captured. Yes, only short snippets of their sets are recorded, but still a good impression of what happened on that wonderful night. And even though I was too young, I really wanted to go. The feedback after the event shocked the Netherlands: how can Hardcore create such an excellent night, when the majority of the politicians and regilious parties are against it? The physical CD has been played by yours truly so many times, I can literally dream each record on it. And the response from the crowd is just beyond belief. No other event can create such a vibe. And we might be living in an era during which everything has just become 1000 times better, but the atmosphere in 1996 was just much, much better. We gave the word gabber a true meaning. We were all mates, all lads, and we all raved. No mobile phones blocking our physical views. Nothing stood in our way of enjoying the night (well, maybe the odd pill here and there)…. CD 1: Live Recorded DJ Sets DJ Dano:  01.1 The Stunned Guys – Beats Time 01.2 The Lawyer – Yo DJ 01.3 DJ Dano – Starting Up 01.4 Tellurian – Hardcore Junkies 01.5 DJ Dave & The Chicago Hardcore Party Force – Listen… The Prophet:  02.1 The Prophet & DJ Delirium – Sirenia 02.2 Masoko Solo – Pessa Pessa (The Prophet Remix)  02.3 The Prophet & DJ Delirium – Da Skunk Mix 02.4 The Prophet & DJ Delirium – We Love To Party 02.5 3 Steps Ahead – Drop It 02.6 Re-Charge – Bumrush DJ Weirdo:  03.1 DJ Weirdo – The Thunder Anthem (Weird Siren Mix)  03.2 Dr. Phil Omanski & Jeremy – Rockin’ Your Body (Buzzy Goes BZRK Mix)  03.3 DJ Weirdo & Dr. Phil Omanski – Young Birds 03.4 Lords Of The Underworld – Take It Easy 03.5 DJ Mongoose – Rip Shit Up (DJ Isaac Remix) DJ Buzz Fuzz:  04.1 French Connection – French Connection (Original SS 19 Mix)  04.2 The Stunned Guys – Beats Time 04.3 DJ Buzz Fuzz – Summertime (Alright Y’All Mix)  04.4 DJ Omar Santana – Kick Some Shit 04.5 Buzz Fuzz – Chemical Overdrive DJ Gizmo & The Dark Raver:  05.1 The Nightraver & DJ Trevor – Rave Is The Word 05.2 Davie Forbes – Remember That 05.3 Bruyaa & Ozonic – Welcome To Deathrow (Happy Mix)  05.4 Lenny Dee & The Dark Raver – To Da Rhythm 05.5 DJ Dave & The Chicago Hardcore Party Force – Yo Mr. DJ Bonus:  06.1 Marshall Masters – Stereo Murder CD 2 : Live Recorded Sets Bass-D & King Matthew:  01.1 Bass-D & King Matthew – Like A Dream 01.2 DJ Distortion & MC Raw vs Bass-D & King Matthew – Raveworld 01.3 Highlander – Hold Me Now (I’m Sorry) (Bass-D & King Matthew Remix) 01.4 Bass-D & King Matthew – The Thunder Anthem 3 Steps Ahead:  02.1 3 Steps Ahead – Gangsters (Feel So Good) 02.2 3 Steps Ahead – Money In My Pocket 02.3 3 Steps Ahead – Drop It 02.4 3 Steps Ahead – The Thunder Anthem (Thunderscream) Neophyte:  03.1 Bodylotion – Always Hardcore 03.2 Bodylotion – Fuck Martina 03.3 Neophyte – The Guitarman 03.4 Neophyte – Execute 03.5 Bodylotion – Happy Is Voor Hobo’s Bonus (DJ Delirium):  04.1 DJ Delirium – Dance Or Die 04.2 DJ Promo & Da Vinci – Psycho Style 04.3 Paradox – The Guillotine 04.4 DJ Delirium & Omar Santana – Drop Da Beat Now, all of us are secretly in awe of this, aren’t we? For me the only other live CD that can top this is Mysteryland 1998 Outdoor, and that’s just basically because I was there. But I just love a proper album which contains the audience in their fullest. And for example during Neophyte’s set they left the bit in where they start asking the crowd if the music level is ok, or not? That’s a liveset for you. Let me tackle this CD in two bits: first we’ll talk about the live DJ sets, and the second bit will be about the livesets, eh? The first DJ on the disc sets the tone, DJ Dano. His short set is really astonishing, and it contains really awesome records. After him The Prophet takes over and treats us to a special version of ‘Pessa Pessa’, which still holds the record of the filthiest bass ever. DJ Weirdo is next, and he plays the coolest Happy/Hardcore anthems out there. Buzz Fuzz’s set isn’t without small errors, but he’s a crowd pleaser, and that’s what he does. And lastly, the Dark Raver and Gizmo (and also the bonus bit during which he coins the phrase ‘wacht effe’). They do what they are good at, and play one of the finest records on this disc: ‘Welcome To Deathrow’. The best set, without a shadow of a doubt, is DJ Dano’s set. Each record is a beauty, and mixed together insanely good. Second disc contains liveset. Bass-D & King Matthew are first to kick off. Playing their finest records, including the well spoken about ‘Like A Dream’, which has never been released. 3 Steps Ahead is after, and demolishes every brain cell you’ve got left. Neophyte just destroys the stage, and the guitar sound penetrates our souls. And DJ Delirium is the last to end it all, and does it with his unique style: American style. Best set? 3 Steps Ahead. All, and I mean all, records are amazing. I have listened to this over and over again, I can pin point each scream, noise and word. This is a superb set by the true legend (RIP). A wonderful 2 disc compilation of one of the greatest Hardcore events which have ever taken place. 22 years ago, but still alive in all our hearts. Thunderdome set the tone, really. And all of this because of a dream of a few youngsters. They changed the world, and during the 1996 event they paved the way for a future, a future with Hardcore dominating our lives. Ps. I’ve added two Soundcloud players, because magpie303 uploaded the CDs onto it. So you can enjoy it too! Act: Various Artists Genre/Style: Hardcore, Happy Hardcore Release Year: 1996 Album Info: Thunderdome ’96 – Dance Or Die! (Live Recorded At) CDs: 2 (two) Length CDs: 02:36:37 Tracks: too many Label: Arcade & ID&T Product Number: 9902299 More Information: Thunderdome – Official Website

This man doesn’t need an introduction at all. A legend since day one, a pioneer and one of the hardest DJs on Earth, a man who’s mission it is to bring only the hardest and finest music to those who can handle it. The voice of a nation of Gabbers: his legendary ‘Thunderdome’ shoutouts still give every gabber goosebumps. To most he’s known as Opa Drokz (or Grandpa Drokz, if you aren’t Dutch), and some might even know him as Richard K, Richie Gambino, Creatures of the Occult, etc. We will talk to this legend, ask him those questions most of us are afraid to ask him, and will indulge ourselves into his passion for the music, getting crowds to go mental, and his love for sneakers. Ladies and gentlemen, we are honoured to interview the legend that is DJ Drokz! Drokz, how are you doing? Enjoying the weather with a nice beverage? “Nah, sitting nice and comfy on the couch with a heinie (a.k.a. Heineken). Mazzel the diva dog is doing a beauty sleep next to me and a DJ set of Current Value is on the speakers. Pretty relaxed setting to do an interview.” You are a well known name in the Hardcore/Terror scene, seeing as you are a producer and DJ, and used to be an MC aswel. We could ask you the standard question, but we won’t: if you sum up who Drokz is in a couple of words, what would those words be, and why? “Dedicated, Loyal, Music maniac, Down to earth…but to be fair, people who know me well can give you a better description. And to keep it real, also impatient and grumpy at times hehe. But grandpa’s are allowed to be grumpy at times hahaha.” You’ve been in the scene for many years, as a producer and as a DJ. You’ve been playing since the early 90s, and had your first release back in 1995 (according to Discogs it’s ‘Bier EP’ by you and Conabis). Back in those days, when you were a bit younger, what was your goal? What was the reason you decided to change from the dancefloor to stand behind the decks? “My first EP was out in 1992 on my own 289 records label. Musical vandals ¨Hakke¨ (btw the first record with the word Hakke in it ;) ). When I was 15 I played Hiphop. The reason was that I wanted to share my taste in music  and that is still the reason today.” What possessed you to choose for the hardest style known to mankind? Why does it appeal to you so much you made it your way of living? “I always tend to like the harder end of genres. For example, with Metal I like: Deicide, DnB Current Value & and Hiphop Onyx. It´s just natural to me that I like the harder end. But I got a wide taste of music. A way of living, I don´t know, I just do what I got to do and music wise nobody tells me what to do. Maybe that is the mentality of a terrorhead, I do and like what I like….don´t like that, phonk you!!” A few days ago a memorable moment passed you by without knowing: your 400th performance as a DJ. Currently you have played 402 times so far. Ever look back at what you have achieved in all those years? “There are 3 things that I´m proud of. First of all, that I´m still active in a scene of the music that I love.  Second that I arranged that Akira, Noisekick, The Vizitor got their first records out. Not that I started their carreer or something, they would succeeded anyway, no doubt, but I´m proud of that I helped them just a little bit. Third,  when I was young people believed I would end up to no good, so I proved them wrong biaaattccchhhhh hehe.” You were and still are an inspiration person. Your music has touched many souls. And during the 90s people were able to witness you in a show on a music channel (TMF) called ‘Hakkeeh’.  For those who haven’t seen the show, it was focussed on Hardcore during the heydays of Hardcore. It had live registrations of Hardcore parties, and also interviews with DJs/producers. Your section of the show was called ‘Ouwe Hoeren Met Drokz’. You were clearly enjoying yourself when you recorded it, but how do you look back at this period in your life? “It was wild & strange. Wild because everything I dreamed of as a young boy came true. Being able to perform on small and really big stages, lots of ladies, lots of drugs and making enough money. Strange, because TMF ´Hakkeeh´ did put everything over the top. Recognized everywhere, 2 hours before and after shows signing autograhps and all that. From being an anonymous dude just before that, it changed everything too fast. I had conversations with MC Mouth of madness (who also presented the show) like ¨wtf is happening here¨. We improvised everything, there was nobody to guide us, nothing (what gave us maximum freedom). The whole ¨ff ouwehoeren¨ thing i´ve made up while just smoking some weed and writing some ideas on paper. Went to a partyshop to buy a hat and a beard and just started with that. So I enjoyed it a lot, but i´ve learned also a lot. It was crazy times x 666.” Hardcore went down the drain, and nearly disappeared completely. The music changed, and many left the scene. Only a handful remained active, and kept the scene alive and kicking, but more focussed on the underground side of Hardcore. Was there ever a moment in your life when you thought that ‘it has been good enough, I’ll quit’?  Or was the love for the music strong enough to keep you going? “I´m a supporter for life, not a succes supporter (not footbal related, I´m not a hooligan, but footbal supporters know exactly what I mean). I always say to people with big mouths…I was there when you came into the scene and I will be opening the door when you leave. 2012 was a really bad year for the Terror scene, there was no music coming out. Most producers had legitable reasons for it (building a new studio, private issues ect.), some had give up and it made me work harder to put music out there. But the foundation in the Terror scene is strong, we stand our ground. What I sincerely hate, is when everything is on the rise again, the leeches pop up. Blurrrghhhh. DJ wise I will perform in the next years lesser and lesser, because it´s not easy to combine with my dayjob plus I ain´t getting any younger. But I always keep those tracks coming, can´t stop won´t stop.” Edit: when I´m coming home at 9 o´clock in the morning (drunk, trashed and looking like a truck ran over me) I like to qoute Danny Glover as Rodger Murtaugh from the old Lethal weapon movies :¨I´m getting too old for this shit¨ hahaha” Over the years you have produced many anthems like ‘Clear The Air’, ‘Bust That Ass’, ‘We’ve Killed The Pengo’, ‘Home Of The Sick’, ‘Time To Unite’… the list goes on and on. Which production you made still takes your breathe away, which is the one track that still gives you goosebumps? “There is not just one track…but I will make a Top 3. Bust That Ass, because it got the mid 90´s big hall sound and flow. Tried to remix it, complete waste of time. Btw the track is a remix, the original version I didn´t like enough to put it out and due to time pressure I remixed it in 1 day. Shotta, timeless gangsterstyled track, kick, vibe and vocal just fit perfectly. Destroyed a few dancefloors through time with that track and gives me that special attitude behind the decks. Our Song, last track on the last Thunderdome, really special track and moment with DaY-már. Long break, but when it hits, it HITS, that special feeling. And ofcourse a lot of genuine terror tracks…..Creatures of the Occult allways nice to hear back and gives me that dark feeling.” Who inspired you when you were producing those tracks? “I just get inspired by a lot of music in general. I get inspired by people who are doing what they like and stand firm doing that. Also people who think outside their genre/substyle and got the balls to step out of their comfort zone. Lately there are too many producers/DJ’s judging other producers/DJ’s while they are prisoners of their own style. I listen to a lot of styles and if you listen closely to my tracks you can hear that. Reggae in ¨Henkie Lives On¨, Metal in ¨Heavy Narcotics¨, Hiphop in the ¨Stealing Yo Shit¨ series to name a few.” Not only has Drokz released anthem after anthem, but also albums. Yes, this man is a very busy bee. His first album was released back in 2003, and many have followed. One even got released as a free download, for all those Terror freaks out there. And that’s something I am curious about: you do give out a lot for free, from mixes to EPs. What’s the reason behind your generosity? “Several reasons. Tickets are nowadays expensive enough (people have to work hard for the tickets), music must be easy acessable and they are on free download sites within 24hrs anyway. When I  started to make music/noise it was for myself, but I also wanted to share it with those who appreciate it. So nothing changed. That´s why I always ask kindly ¨like it, share it¨ when I drop a release. If you are a loyal follower of my pages, you´ll get rewarded with free music. Play it LOUD!!” Once you’ve witnessed the legend that is Drokz, the impact will change your life. Many have witnessed you over the years, and there’s a cult following. You have become the inspiration for many, and 36k+ fans do agree with your passion and enthusiasm for the music. There are even fans who tattoo themselves with your logo. But looking at your Tweets and Facebook statuses, you are still a down to earth guy. Hasn’t being famous affected you at all? “I explain it always like this. Someone who is really good in construction get´s compliments if his works’ finished and showed to the customer. I´m horrible with building stuff, I could not get a nail right in a piece of wood. So everybody got a skill they are good in, only with the difference that music will touch your hart, balls, clit whatever. So my talent is that I can play & make some music, that´s it. I´m not the type that is ¨oh so artistic¨, making things more important then it accually is. I think that is pure bullshit. A firefighter puts his life on the line doing his job, an airplane pilot got the responsibility over hundreds of people. You can´t compare those jobs with entertaining people in a club or sitting behind a pc listening to a kickdrum over and over. So being famous isn´t that important to me.” “Also I have a day job where  I´m Richard not Drokz. They don´t care what I do as Drokz, so that keeps my feet on the ground. But don´t get me wrong, I totally respect and appreciate my followers (even I don´t have time to answer messages, sorry). I´m blessed with such dedication of people!!!” “As far with the tattoos, that is the ultimate dedication. The Drokz tattoo club  get some merchandise for free as a appreciation for their dedication. It´s the least I can do back for them!” Drokz is well known for his passion for everything hard and tough, but also for his passion for sneakers. A specific brand to be precise (just do it). Is this the result from the 90s, when ravers/gabbers wore those sneakers? How many sneakers do you actually have? “No, I loved sneakers all my life, but never had enough money to spend it on. I started to collect a few years ago and now I think I got around a 120 pairs. Funny detail is that I’m always busy, so to relax I hunt for sneakers on the internet.” Have you got a shoe fetish? Do you find women in sneakers the sexies sight you’ve ever seen? “Nah I just like to wear fresh sneakers, that´s it. And for woman, yeah, I like it when they wear some supercute Air Maxes, no competition for boots, Uggs, ect.” Back to the music. You’ve recently released ‘DROKZ015 EP’ as a free download. After many years you haven’t lost your production skills and strength, but what is the secret behind a Drokz track? How come you make each track sound unique, fresh, raw, unedged, tough, etc? “Nothing, I just sit and start. Sometimes I have a plan what kind of style I want to make (like Industrial, Gabber, Funky, BPM range), sometimes not. I always make sure that the track is good to mix and most important that it will work on the dancefloor and gets you moving. I don´t give a phonk what is credible or not, new school/old school or flavours. Ofcourse there is a certain sound that I have, like some say ¨a typical Drokz kickdrum¨ or so, but that is what I like I guess, not doing that on purpose. Production skills can always be improved, so I will keep learning.” What’s your equipment set up at home? Do you still work on ‘oldskool’ equipment, or do you work on the latest hardware? “Everything in the box. Worked with hardware in the past and phonk that, phonk midi bullshit. It was always playing tricks with me, giving me errors, or not well saved sounds. It killed a lot of times my vibe. Plus a lot of synths nowadays are digital anyway, so I love to start up my computer and start where I finished the last time. Keeping my workflow high.” Many don’t know that you do have a full-time job, and being a DJ is some kind of hobby. You don’t perform that often (maybe twice a month). But if there is one reader who hasn’t seen you live before, what can he/she expect? “Yep I only perform twice a month. Expect energy!! Not a flawless set (I mix quite like a caveman hahaha), but with a lot of tracks building up from hard till harder.” Your musical knowledge is unendless, and you have worked/played with many artists over the last couple of years. Artists such as Akira, Partyraiser, DaY-már, Noizer, Angerfist, and the list goes on. At Masters Of Hardcore 2014 you played with an upcoming artist Mithridate. You introduced her to us all, as your protogé. Is there a specific reason why we all should follow Mithridate, and why is she the next best thing to hit the Terror scene? “Glad you ask, because there is some confusion about that subject. People that went the last few years to Terror partys in Holland probably seen her on the dancefloor already. And after some pictures (when she was behind the decks) posted by her boyfriend Paranoizer, Akira & I invited her spontaniously to play with us at Masters of Hardcore during our set. She was nervous as phonk, but played very well. Most wanted booking agency saw the response and we started talking. The reason she is supported by me is that she is FROM the dancefloor, UNDERSTANDING the dancefloor and has that energy that I sometimes mis with other DJ´s. She loves terror so much and that is the complete package to me. ATM she is learning to produce, but experience can´t be learned, so she still has a path to walk, but didn´t we all? I strongly believe that she is a great add-up to the terrorscene. Full support!!” “Angernoizer is back and stronger then before. Danny Ovington is the hard kick supplier and still making progress. The Sinner is improving his sound & production and working hard. Deterrent Man is dropping great tracks. Khaoz Engine signed with MW and is full focussed on a mission. And at the hard end of Hardcore I really like what Dave Dope is releasing. So things are looking good!!” You keep on releasing new music, and with Mithridate you’ve released ‘Haters Gonna Hate’, which people can find on ‘De Nederlandsche Terreur BV’ EP. The thought behind it is a nice one: all proceeds will go to charity. (ik zet hier links naar de EP). The top 5 Terror artists worked on this EP, and the result is a 5 track EP, with the slowest track being 220BPM. An excellent track, if I must say. But how come your track is the ‘slowest’? And who are actually the haters? “Because we love the 220bpm tempo haha. The other tought behind the project was also to unite/connect the older big name generation with the newest generation. United we stand!!” “The haters? Well…. let´s say that some people didn´t understand my support of Mithridate or disagree. Phonk that!! Also the usual rumours when a chick is supported, even Paranoizer is her well-known boyfriend and a friend of mine. So we tought it was a good subject for a song, case closed hehe. Also people can relate to the song, there is a lot of hating on the internet, so people remember…..Haters gonna hate anyway, phonk em!!” You’ve once said that ‘Holland Is Godverdomme Het Hardste’. You still stand by that quote? “Ofcourse, we are the hardest. What would the Hardcore scene be without Holland? It´s not only about BPM´s  📷 ” Still got a hate against Hard House? (mentioned in Holland Is…..) “Still don´t understand the word HARD .. Hate is a big word, but I will never perform in a leather jacket so to speak hahaha” What can we expect in the near future (production wise)? Any releases coming up? Or maybe an album you are secretly working on? “No secrets, currently I’m working on a team up ep with Goetia, some remixes pending and then drokz016.” Oh, something people might want to know: if anyone wants to purchase a Drokz t-shirt, where can they get them from? Are they still available? “At the Masters of Hardcore store. And I must say, it´s always superdope seeing someone rock your shirt at a party, seriously!!” Last question, and I’ve saved the best for last. It’s quite tricky to answer this correctly, but if anyone could answer it correctly, it has to be you. Can you explain to someone who thinks that it’s just a lot of noise, what Terror music actually is? “Hard, faster than average, sometimes funky, but most of all in your face music.” If you want to thank anyone at all for becoming who you are, or do the complete oppossite, here’s your chance. “Mr.Courage, Akira, The Vizitor, Noisekick, Masters of Hardcore, Marilys of MW bookings, ID&T (incl Waxweazle for the introduction), GNS crew, my old homeboys, my new homeboys, my dead homeboys, Sjoerd (known as the boy on a lot of album covers) and everyone involved in the Hardcore/Terrorscene + my lady aka Grandma.” We would like to say ‘thank you’ to Grandpa Drokz, for this very interesting, and very insightful interview. As I said before, this man doesn’t need an introduction, but only admiration for the achievements over the years. If you are still unaware of who this pioneers and legend is, make sure you check these websites out, bookmark them, and if you don’t (I’ll use a Drokz quote) ‘phonk you’. Also, check out his latest track on ‘De Nederlandsche Terreur BV‘ EP, which he made with the talented Mithridate. Drokz, a pioneer, the voice of a generation. Drokz – Facebook Fanpage Drokz  – Twitter Page Drokz – Soundcloud Page Drokz – Booking Agency Drokz – Personal Website

When we are talking about big events, there are so many to choose from. As a present day raver, you can go literally everywhere you want to, but if you really want to party hard, you should always go to the Netherlands. The birth place of many styles, and the birth place of the big events. Many have copied what the Dutch have done before, which is a compliment. But events like Intents Festival are unique. And you know it. This year at Intents Festival, Rooler played there and had a whale of a time. Of however the saying is. Rooler is one of those artists who pushes the Rawstyle sound forward, and has become the face of it. His music has been embraced by many, and captures the atmosphere in the scene beautifully. He has the natural gift of making the music sound beautiful, and intoxicating at the same time. He also knows how to please the fans online, like when he uploaded a teaser for 'YES!', in which he showed his awesome dancing skills in his house. But truth be told, the teaser was too damn short, but got literally everyone excited. And now it has been released, and the responses have been amazing. And even I am hooked. His set at Intents Festival was only 30 minutes long, but within those 30 minutes he comes and destroys everything, and everyone. Worth checking out the tracklist! 01. Intro (Domination Orchestral Edit) 02. Rooler - Domination 03. Rooler - The 23 Is Here (Intents Live Edit) 04. Rooler - #END 05. Rooler - YES! 06. Rooler - You Are Extinguished (Intents Live Edit) 07. Rooler & Thyron - Hesitate To Kill (Intents Live Edit) w/ Warface x Malice x Rooler - Watch Your Back (Vocal) 08. Rooler - Rollin' (Oldschool Edit) 09. Warface x Malice x Rooler - Watch Your Back (Intents Live Edit) w/ Malice & Rooler - Aggressive Act (Vocal) 10. Rooler - Violence (Aggressive Act Remix) 11. Malice - Dictatorship (Rooler Remix) 12. Rooler - Dikke Stroopwafel (Koningsdag 2018 Edit) 13. Rooler & Sefa - Survive The Street (Whatsapp Intro Edit) 14. Rooler - Martyr (Uptempo Edit) That's a beautiful tracklist. All focussed on Rooler (and friends). But you don't want to hear anything else besides this man's music. Rooler has been breathing and living Rawstyle, and his enthusiasm is very addictive. During this liveset the MC does his thing (which isn't imprresive to be said), but I'm not bothered about the MC, it's all about the crowd. And they loose it. They fucking loose it. You can hear them out loud, screaming, singing, and giving their all. There were only Rooler fans during his set, and they knew exactly each and every song he played. Now that's dedication for you, for sure. When the music is good, and the fans all love it, there's only love you can give to the artist. And in this set, the legendary 'YES!' got played, which has become an instant hit everywhere. A proper Rawstyle record with a few hints to the older sounds, but oh so fucking good. I can only give Rooler credit for this set. And he has got my respect. I fucking love whatever he does, even the quirky 'Stroopwafel' song. It's Sunday, press play and let the music take you on a journey. DJ: Rooler Genre/Style: Hardstyle/Rawstyle Liveset Info: Recorded @ Intents Festival 2018 Length Liveset: 00:31:01 Tracks: 14 (fourteen) Download/Listen (via Soundcloud): LISTEN HERE File Size: unknown File Type: unknown Bitspeed: unknown More Information: Rooler - Facebook Fanpage