Blue, red, and green laser beams pierce through my skull as the heavy bass trembles me across the dance floor. I have officially stepped foot into one of the most anticipated events in dance music — trance, to be specific. Who would have seen an all trance event brewing from Insomniac, let alone two in a row within just a couple of months! Hearing about how epic Dreamstate LA was, I was absolutely devastated and kicking myself over and over again for not being able to clone myself to be at two shows at once. Jordan Suckley, Aly & Fila, and John O’Callaghan blew my eardrums off at FSOE 400 just a few months back. Bryan Kearney, Paul Van Dyk, and Simon Patterson were of course at the top of the “must see again” list as well. I clawed my eyes out when Ben Nicky told us he played one of his best sets in the U.S. yet at the LA event. When Dreamstate SF got announced, I knew it was my opportunity to make up for lost trance.
Even for those who had not tapped into trance before, the Dreamstate SF roster had almost no unfamiliar names. There had been a lot of chatter among people about which Dreamstate event would be better. Aside from the genre itself, the biggest debates were between the venues and both lineups. Comparing a more underground warehouse type of feel of The NOS Event Center to a grand venue like The Bill Graham Auditorium, seasoned ravers already seemed to have their money on Dreamstate LA being the more organic experience of the two even before SF came around. Of course, the lineups were set up differently as well. Headliners dominated the second half of the SF schedule on both days, being set up more like a mainstream festival. LA seemed to have put the names of the artists and set times in a drawing machine, not differentiating the big names from the smaller ones.
Recently, a lot of talk about the comeback of trance has come up. Some say that trance never left, but had been quietly existing in the background for the true and loyal. There has been a lot of debate back and forth between those that stayed true to the sound and those that ventured off onto a more commercial path. I got the chance to sit down with Markus Schulz, Solarstone, and RAM to discuss this matter as well, along with other music lovers throughout and after the event. Some say that the more melodic sound is coming back, hand in hand with psy, versus the commercialized big room and progressive sound. This is why trance-heavy lineups will gradually continue to reveal themselves among small shows and big festivals. Those that have stirred more in the massively appealing direction have been deemed as “mainstream” which apparently has become a negative term in the music industry these days. I’ve scrolled through countless number of threads within EDM, trance, house music, and festival groups with heated debates and fans bashing on others for liking a certain artist or their sets. These threads sometimes go for miles, and often take away from the original purpose of the group, which is to share and promote our unified love for music.
Dreamstate was an incredibly amazing event. The music and production blew my socks and eardrums off to the moon and back! Who the hell cares if SF had a few more mainstream artists that drew in the masses? Yes, many people came to the San Francisco event for Gareth Emery, Cosmic Gate, and Markus Schulz because they had never heard of some of the other artists before. They came because they saw these guys at other “mainstream” festivals and fell in love with their music. These are the exact types of artists to introduce people into the genre who have never experienced it before. I thought that the purpose of music, including trance, was to uplift, connect, and express! Why would we be so closed-minded to having an exclusive event for the “real trance” lovers only? This event along with any others should be for ALL music lovers, and we should invite them in with open arms and ears. If I were to look at the lineup four years ago, I would have only known Markus Schulz, Aly & Fila, Cosmic Gate, Paul Oakenfold, Paul Van Dyk, and Gareth Emery. But names like those are what led me to guys like Solarstone, Bryan Kearney, Neptune Project, RAM, Simon Patterson, and John O’Callaghan! I’m proud to admit that although Solarstone and RAM’s set completely blew me away into trance heaven, I also happen to be a huge fan of MaRLo, Andrew Rayel, Ilan Bluestone, SOMNA and Dash Berlin! Progressive trance, pure trance, melodic trance, psy trance, hard trance, old trance, new trance — it’s all trance! If the music industry and the rave community need more of something, it’s definitely tolerance, compassion, and acceptance. Instead of sitting here debating whose trance is best, how about we just hold hands, embrace the music, and enjoy the show? Music is a universal language that connects us all, and it’s events like Dreamstate that bring us together from all over the world.
My event count is in the hundreds, ranging from local shows to music festivals across the country. I’ve flown, I’ve driven, and even hiked miles after miles to attend different festivals. I’ve experienced tear-jerking trance to head-banging bass music. I’ve fist-pumped to Hardwell and cried to MaRLo. At the end of the day, if it weren’t for me heading to EDC for the headliners at the mainstages, I would have never discovered all the amazing artists and genres I now know and love. As far as the music goes, Dreamstate absolutely ranks in my top 5 of all the events I have ever attended. There was not a single bad set, which made choosing my favorite extremely hard. I went around asking people to choose 1, 2, or even 3 of their favorite sets as I scratched my head and rolled my eyes when it got to my turn. The event had something for everyone, from the trance noobs to the trance veterans. It is safe to say that Insomniac put together another amazing one in the books. Word from the trance gods is that the chance for Dreamstate 2017 is more than likely. See what some of our festival goers had to say about their experience!
Age: 32 (yikes)
Hometown: Seattle
Traveled to Dreamstate from: SF
Favorite Color: rainbows
IG/Twitter: emileu529
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
There was no question, I never would have missed it. So many of my friends and I have talked about an all-trance event for so many years, and for it to be a reality is literally a dream come true. On top of that, for it to be where I live was incredibly lucky. And that lineup…
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
Between concerts, festivals and club nights, I’ve been to countless events. Even 10 days later it’s hard to put the right words together to describe the feelings I felt that weekend. The production at both Dreamstates was top notch, not that I would expect anything less from Insomniac but WOW, I thought they were done so well. Dreamstate was everything you’d want from a rave, and the kicker for me was the music. 8 hours of musical bliss. Tears were shed, hugs were given and love was all around.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Day 1, Vini vici because I hadn’t seen them before, and Day 2, j00f & CL no explanation needed
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
J00F & CL absolutely killed it, but Solarstone will always be my #1, no matter how often or how many times I see him, listening to him is my happy place.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
I’d have to vote for SF. TBH 10 hours is REALLY long, and it was freezing that weekend in San Bernadino. Furthermore, we had to go outside to get drinks, or sit down, so we were forced to be in the cold. NOS is such a great venue for a festival but I love Bill Graham and being able to walk home is an obvious plus. I loved the structure in LA, and how the spotlights played on the metal, but then that massive screen in SF was incredible, and the lasers, I’m so glad we are upping our laser game in the US!
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
All of night 2. Night 2 was impeccable.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance is my reprieve and my drug of choice. It has helped get me through tough times. I can find a song to match my mood, or I can reach out to Trance Family and they will shower me with more songs because that is what the scene is all about. Most often, it makes me feel complete. Music, specifically the sub genres of electronic music I listen to (trance, deep house, progressive and a little techno) is my religion. Not that I worship the producers (ok, I kinda do) but there is a very strong spirituality I get from music.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Solarstone, chicane, a&b, orkidea, 16bl/cubicolor, jody wisternoff, j00f, menno de jong,
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
DJ Emileu haha, i don’t know… that’s just my insta and twitter handle
Age: 23
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Tiburon, CA
Favorite Color: Teal
IG/Twitter: @kelseyelizz
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
I actually wasn’t supposed to go! One of my girlfriends that I went to school from Kindergarten through college with was in town for Dreamstate with her friends! I was hanging out with the girls earlier that day and was planning on driving them to the concert so they wouldn’t have to take an Uber and they ended up asking me to accompany them, buying my ticket, dolling me up, and taking me to a life-changing night!
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
None- I have never been to Trance, EDM, anything. This was my first time and it was literally life-changing. It opened up my heart and my eyes to a community of loving energy and good vibes. It was my first, but definitely not my last.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
I didn’t honestly know any artists on the set list to expect- but my girlfriends were looking forward to Gareth Emery (and I can see why!)
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Aly & Fila was my favorite (Emery was a close second). There was just something so amazing about the vibe of their set. It took me to a different place. I have always loved music because of the way it can make me feel and Aly & Fila was a whole ‘nother level. They blew my mind and I could literally feel the music moving me.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
The most memorable moment at Dreamstate, for me, was meeting people! (Bryan and Lara in particular) I have been on a long journey of self-discovery and self- love this last year and everyone I met there kept saying that I was radiating light, radiating love. It moved me, made me feel so good because I have been working towards that for a long time and I had no idea how tangible it was and how apparent it was to strangers. It was an amazing experience, to say the least.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance makes me feel uplifted, light, airy. The music, the beats- you can’t help but want to dance. I danced the entire night without a care in the world because the music moves you down to your core. To me, trance means a family. A family of people from all walks of life, with different stories that come together to smile, love, and dance in the same place. The energy fills the room and the light, the love is tangible in that space. You could feel the good energy permeating the event center. It was hard not to smile and even harder not to dance. Trance is not just music, to me, it’s an experience; one that I had never thought I would venture out and try and now I can’t wait until the next show!
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
Calypso (Reason: I love African culture and dance and I would try to incorporate Trinidadian beats and music into my sets)
Age: 28
Hometown: SF
Traveled to Dreamstate from: my house
Favorite Color: blue
IG/Twitter: thehellokitty/elainie_huang
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
Because I adore trance and couldn’t make Dreamstate LA last minute. I was kicking myself ever since because I heard it was beyond epic and amazing and Ben Nicky said that was the BEST set he’s played in America ever. I did manage to make it to his Fresno show the month after, but I had to make up for lost trance.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I’ve probably been to about 500 events (kid you not) ranging from clubs, to shows, to festivals. They are all very different, but I would say that Dreamstate was definitely up in the top 3 for BEST MUSIC overall, because I didn’t hear a single bad set. It was so incredibly hard to choose which ones my favorites were, as so many of them were neck and neck! The production was also AMAZING, and Bill Graham is one of my favorite venues. I do enjoy festivals with diverse sounds and genres, but this was definitely TRANCE HEAVEN!
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
I was most looking forward to seeing RAM and Solarstone because I’ve managed to miss them at every single event prior to this one. Of course, I was also dying to experience some epic PSY from Bryan Kearney and Jordan Suckley again. It was so hard to choose with such an amazing lineup.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Everyone I wanted to see blew me away to the moon and back! RAM and Solarstone had those melodic moments that got everyone swaying in a state of trance, and Bryan Kearney blew my f*Cking head off! I’ve experienced Aly & Fila before, but it was on a whole new level this time, especially standing up on the top floor smack in the middle with the lasers cutting my eyes! If I super duper had to choose, I think PVD took it away by half an inch. I had just finished an interview and was high on life as I slithered my way into the front of the crowd. MIND. FREAKIN. BLOWN.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Finishing up my interview with Markus, I was super stoked about everything in general (including the interview). We were done with “work” for the night and it was time to play! I was super excited to catch PVD’s set, so managed to rummage my way through the crowd into the front row. His set was incredibly high energy with both the feels and headbanging tracks. I danced. I got emotional. I was in the moment. That was probably the most epic moment of Dreamstate for me.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance makes me feel all sorts of emotions. The pure, melodic trance takes me on a journey while it soothes and calms me. It helps me release the emotions inside and embrace whatever it is that I’m feeling. The harder hitting trance like PSY just gets me AMPED and PUMPED to take on the world! Whatever it is, I’ve always loved that trance is able to tell stories with very little words. No hype man. No crazy production needed. It’s a type of music that stands well itself with or without any of the additional glitz and glam.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
MaRLo, Jenaux, Prince Fox, 3LAU, KYGO, Andrew Rayel, Bryan Kearney, Paris Blohm Slander and Party Favor are some of my favorites.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
This conversation has definitely been had more than a few times over. The names have also changed among conversations and friends, haha! At this moment, I’d be DistortedKat and I’d be producing hardstyle meets trap or dubstep meets progressive house. Trance is my fave, but knowing my attention span, I think it’s a genre I’d be better off appreciating. If I was a producer, I’d be doing the crazy madwoman dance and causing an earthquake of some sort to hardstyle, trap, dubstep, and prog house combined 🙂
Age: 32
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Dallas, TX
Favorite Color: Blue
IG/Twitter: @exodius
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
After meeting my girlfriend Ayumi at the last Dreamstate, it seemed like a no-brainer that we would both want to experience DS once again.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
If I had to choose just one (and if it were someone I’d never seen before), I’d have to say John O’Callaghan. Runner-ups would be Jordan Suckley, Bryan Kearney, Allen & Envy, and Solarstone. I’ve seen Aly & Fila so many times but I’m always anxious to see Fadi each time 🙂
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Depending on the time of day and overall mood, it’s a toss-up between Suckley’s and Kearney’s sets from DS SF! Both delivered SO much energy that I can listen to either set and dance the night away! I’m a HUGE fan of uplifting/psy, so while there were MANY artists/sets that really “brought it” to DS (Patterson, Tyas, Vini Vici, and Aly & Fila are just a few notable ones), these two sets made me move the entire time!
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
It would undoubtedly be the first time Ayumi and I kissed at Dreamstate LA. We met due to a mutual friend named Nana Kato who had came from Japan to enjoy DS with the rest of us. She knew someone from the DS group who happened to also be Japanese and who was going to DS. We only spoke the first day, but things intensified during the second day once Aly & Fila and PVD dropped some really emotional tracks. I had met up with Ayumi again during the beginning of JOC’s set and was feeling in a true “state of trance”. We mingled and I told her I liked her, but she told me she liked me, too! I didn’t believe it at all until we slowly kissed. Before you know it, we just stayed close the entire night as nothing mattered to me but her. From JOC’s set til the end of Kearney, I felt like the happiest guy in the world!
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
No matter what mood I previously was in, Trance has ALWAYS uplifted my spirits! Since following the genre in late 1999/early 2000, I’ve always been interested in the melodies and vibes Trance gives out. It’s unlike any other genre out there, conveying feelings of love and friendship vs. the nonsense spewed on the radio that conveys drugs, rape, violence, and more. Whether it’s a vocal track or purely melodic, Trance can make me smile, cry, dance, and feel more confident in just one song!
Who are some of your favorite artists?
(In no real order) Aly & Fila, Simon Patterson, RAM, Solarstone, Sean Tyas, TrancEye, Manuel Le Saux, Fleming & Lawrence, Bryan Kearney, Jordan Suckley, Allen & Envy, Adam Ellis, Photographer, Alex MORPH, Above & Beyond, Arctic Moon, Sunlounger, Markus Schulz, Ahmed Romel, The Thrillseekers, Armin van Buuren, and MANY more!
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I’ve had the online alias of “eXodius” for years!! I don’t recall exactly where it came from, but that’d be my name 😉
Age: 22
Hometown: Los Angeles
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Los Angeles
Favorite Color: Yellow
IG/Twitter: forbiddenkitten
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
Trance was one of the first genres of “EDM” that got me into this scene and loving all these genres of music when i was 9 thanks to my mom. It was nice to “go back to my roots”.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I can’t even tell you how many events I’ve been to. I lost track at about 40… Dreamstate was refreshing. I didn’t hear not one song played twice.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Paul Oakenfold. Because that’s one of the DJ’s my mom would play alot when I was growing up. And I got to facetime her while he was playing.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Gareth Emery. Just the energy in the crowd was amazing.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
No I did not.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Just the vibes of every I met. I got to meet so many people that truly were there for the music and the plur. There was not one “not nice” person I met. It was also getting to hold hands with my best friend during Gareth Emery and just feeling like our friendship grew even more in that moment.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
It makes me remember my youth. It means love, and unity, and so much more. It’s what got me to love house. It’s what got me into wanting to produce music of my own that will bring others together, and make them feel like they have a place they belong.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Kaskade, Alison Wonderland, Loco Dice, M83, Rufus Du Soul, Crystal Castles, Odesza, etc.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I actually do DJ and produce, I go by Forbiddenkitten.
Age: 27
Hometown: San Jose, ca
Traveled to Dreamstate from: San Jose
Favorite Color: rainbow
IG/Twitter: @JakeryanDuh / @JakeRyan06
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
I came to dreamstate SF because I love trance, trance is one of the only Edm genres that I feel like everyone can connect with. The lyrics, songs and just beauty of how calming the music is. It was amazing insomniac finally produced an all trance event since trance is slowly dying.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Definitely Gareth Emery haven’t seen him throw down an all trance set since probably 2009.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
I would say joc and and Gareth Emery they both were amazing. Pure trance and amazing talent
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
I would have to say just being with my best friend Janelle aka @forbiddenkitten she lives in la so we don’t see each other as much as we want to! But so blessed that Instagram brought us together!
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance makes me alive and loved. The lyrics just speak to me. Everything about trance is pure happiness and joy!
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Dash Berlin, Nicole moudaber, get real, kaskade, Armin van Buuren
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I think it would just be JAKERYANDUH
Age: 26
Hometown: Manila
Traveled to Dreamstate from: San Bruno, CA
Favorite Color: BLACK
IG/Twitter: TAMCAMBRONERO
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
Need I say more? Because #TRANCE
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I’ve been a few festivals in and outside the US; Like Beyond Wonderland, EDC, TomorrowWorld, Amsterdam Music Festival and A State of Trance in Utrecht but nothing compares to Dreamstate. Aside from the fact that it’s a standalone trance event, it felt like homecoming. Being surrounded by people who share the same same passion and love for the music just creates an indescribable vibe. Everyone look out for each other. DJ’s were mingling with the crowd even other DJs came to support other artists. It was just pure bliss. 🙂
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Fleming & Lawrence. It was my first time to see both of these legends and they definitely did not disappoint.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
John O’Callaghan. That bald wizard always have something up his sleeve. From Fleming & Lawrence to Aly & Fila’s set were one of the best 4 hours of my life.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
Yes, I did. I enjoyed both Dreamstate but I liked the vibe in SoCal better.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Meeting Fadi!!! I’ve always wanted to meet Aly & Fila and finally I got the chance to meet one of them. Thanks to Bryan Kearney for giving me Access All Areas guestlist. 🙂
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance is everything to me. I can always count on trance during my darkest hour and even on my happiest days. Trance will never leave you.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Aly & Fila, Ben Nicky, and Bryan Kearney
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
LOL! Uhmm Vishnu! And I’ll be producing Psy tracks. HAHA! Sorry I’m not creative like that. LOL
Age: 29
Hometown: SF Bay Area
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Fremont, CA
Favorite Color: Blue
IG/Twitter: Don’t use them.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I’ve been to many events (EDC, Beyond, POP, etc.) and I must say the atmosphere at Dreamstate is a bit different. Everyone is much more polite and respects each other and the trance culture. It’s a lot different than the vibe you get at EDC where you get a lot of people that are not there for the music.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
RAM
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Paul Van Dyk. This was my first time seeing him live and his set was just full of energy from beginning to end with classics and new songs mixed perfectly. Plus, how can For An Angel not blow you away..
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Being with my buddies when Cosmic Gate dropped Exploration of Space (favorite all time track).
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance always has a special place in my heart since it’s the first genre I listed to that got me into electronic music. It never ceases to give me the feels. I’ve been listening to Trance since I was a freshman in high school. That was like the golden era with classic Tiesto, Armin, Gouryella (Tiesto & Ferry Corsten), ATB, and Cosmic Gate just to name a few.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
There are so many artists that I like. My Top 5 would have to be Armin, Andrew Rayel, Dash Berlin, 3lau, and Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
DJ V.. yea i know, not too creative.
Age: 34
Hometown: Middletown, NJ
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Bay Area!
Favorite Color: Neon Green
IG/Twitter: N/A
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
I’ll always have a soft spot in my heart for trance, as my friend introduced me to EDM by bringing me to Armin Only Together As One 2009. Having a two-day event dedicated to trance just miles away from where I live? How could I resist?
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I’m very loyal to Insomniac, so I try to attend all of their major festivals: Beyond Wonderland (both LA and SF), Nocturnal Wonderland, Escape from Wonderland, White Wonderland (RIP), and EDC. I’ve also traveled abroad for ASOT700 in the Netherlands and ABGT150 in Sydney. Despite all those events, Dreamstate SF and LA still managed to bring artists that I rarely get to see, and some I’ve seen for the first time!
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
I’m a huge fan of vocal trance, so I was most looking forward to Cosmic Gate and RAM. Paul van Dyk had also been surprising me with his sets at Dreamstate LA and Escape, so I made sure not to miss his set.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
After experiencing Ferry Corsten’s set at EDC and Chicane’s at POPNYE, I’ve been yearning more and more for that classic trance sound. And when Solarstone took the stage with his dulcet melodies, my ears melted into my heart. Definitely looking forward to seeing him again at Beyond Wonderland LA with Giuseppe Ottaviani and their PureNRG moniker.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
Wouldn’t have missed either one for the world! I personally liked Dreamstate LA better due to the venue having more space and slightly better production. I also liked the variety of genres at the LA show, including some artists from the Anjunabeats label.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Chilling with DJ RAM in the crowd after his set. He’s always hilarious to hang out with, and very grateful for his fans.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance is the only music genre that gives me goosebumps even when I’m simply listening at home. I associate my favorite tracks with memories of when I’ve experienced them live, always in a positive environment surrounded by friends, old and new.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
I like artists that skew towards the softer sounds, pretty much anyone on the Anjunabeats label (especially Ilan Bluestone and Jason Ross), and the vocal tracks of artists like Arty, Myon & Shane 54, and MaRLo.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I’ve actually thought about this for quite a while. It’d be the alternative spelling of my Chinese last name in all caps: DJ XIE
Age: 22
Hometown: Bay Area( Oakland )
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Seattle
Favorite Color: All black everything.
IG/Twitter: BrendenisNguyening
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
I have been fantasizing about Luminosity for years so when Dreamstate LA and SF came up it was an easy choice in my mind. I also have rave family and real family in the bay so it was 3 birds with one stone.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
My first event was Freaknight 2014 and I’ve gone to 6 festivals so far which none of them even measure up in terms of vibes. The production especially at both Dreamstate LA and SF were by far spectacular. I got into this dark place where I wasn’t as in love with going to events as I once was then I attended Dreamstate LA and it just sparked it up all over again for me.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
For names I haven’t ever seen live
Vini Vici
Fleming & Lawrence
Sean Tyas
For my favorites I wanted to see again
PVD
Jordan Suckley
John O’Callaghan
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Fleming & Lawrence came out of nowhere with their set. They literally set the tone high for night 2 for me.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
Yes I did. There were a lot of pros and cons to each Dreamstate but I enjoyed Dreamstate 1 overall more than I did Dreamstate SF. I enjoyed Dreamstate SF still but it was special in it’s own way. LA’s event sold out within 6 hours so it told me in my mind that it was the dedicated trance fans who wanted in to this special point in history. Met people from Japan, Korea, Singapore, UK, PDX, Toronto, Vancouver, and all parts of the USA.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
-PVD dropping “I don’t deserve you” and “Home” and screaming the lyrics out with the crowd.
– Bryan Kearney dropping his remix of “Need you now”
– Running into two shufflers I shuffled with at PopNye then dancing with them for a bit
– A member of Trance Family SF gave me this sweet glow in the dark bracelet that has the lyrics to “Home” by PVD on it.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance is a whole range of emotion for me as it is a vast genre to talk about. Some days it helps me get through and some days it’s the lemonade on a sunny day. It for helps me bring me out of myself as I am quite a hermit. Just loving something has connected me to so many other people because they love it if not more than me in such a raw emotional way.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
I started off trance with Armin, Dash, Above and beyond, and Rayel but as I grew into the genre more I have taken quite a liking to most if not all of the Dreamstate 1 and 2 lineup’s.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I am totally infatuated with one punch man right now so Mumen rider would be in honor of him.
Age: 36
Hometown: San Jose, CA
Traveled to Dreamstate from: San Jose, CA
Favorite Color: Blue
IG/Twitter: berto2k1 / berto2k1
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
Dreamstate SF was going to be a destination for me to have the chance to jump into a genre I haven’t had a lot of variant exposure to. It sounded like it would be an amazing experience, and it would also be an amazing way to celebrate my birthday on that Saturday.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I have probably been to about 15 events. Dreamstate SF absolutely ranks up there as the best. I did not want it to end more than any other event I’ve been to.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Markus Shulz
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
I think I would have to put my vote to Gareth Emery. There was a lot of speculation around the internet as to if her really would play an “true” trance set, vs what he currently tends to play. He played remixed versions of his hits so they fit the theme of Dreamstate, as well as some of his older goodies.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
I went out with my friend to the smoking area for her to take a break. We started talking to a group of friends and when they found out it was my birthday, one of the girls started to lead them in singing happy birthday to me. Others around us also started to join in.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance helps me to escape in my mind. It can assist me in taking a look at what’s going on in my life or at the moment and reset, putting it all back in perspective.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Zedd, John Beaver, Andrew Rayel, Kygo, tyDi, Kennedy Jones, Ilan Bluestone, Marlo, Laidback Luke, Bingo Players, 3lau, Dada Life
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
Robby Mills
Age:36
Hometown: Santa Clara
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Santa Clara
Favorite Color: blue
IG/Twitter: @billyhornmusic for both
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
As a trance lover how could I not with the lineup and production quality of Insomniac
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
Too many to count, closest event I’ve been to compared to Dreamstate was probably POPNYE 2012
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Markus Schulz, I’ve mostly just seen him live in the open to close sets so curious to see what he had in store for the 1 hour journey
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
This is a hard question to answer, all the sets were good. Maybe I’ll say Oakenfold. The whole night was a lot of hard psy trance and he came in and changed things up. Before I knew it PvD was mostly over and Markus was about to come on. Kinda like how the opening DJ will switch things towards the end of his set right before the headliner sometimes
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Hearing JoC play a remix of Find Yourself. It created a special moment while listening to it
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
For me with instrumental tracks it’s kind of a duality, the melodic breakdowns float me up into the heavens and then the hard beat comes in and brings me back to earth. And then a lot of the vocal tracks usually strike a chord with something I’m going through or had gone through. There’s quite a few different genres of trance and not all the music is congruent to this style. Although the tracks I tend to like generally are
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Markus Schulz, Cosmic Gate, Solarstone, Above & Beyond, Armin, Chicane, Eric Prydz, Ferry Corsten, Ilan Bluestone, Jason Ross, Khen (I’m probably missing a few big ones that I like but this is a good start)
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I am and just go by Billy Horn. You might be able to catch me sometime opening up for trance artists playing at Ruby Skye 🙂
Age: 25
Hometown: East LA
Traveled to Dreamstate from: San Francisco
Favorite Color: Blue
IG/Twitter: @norcalraves / @ecorona16
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
I chose to go to Dreamstate SF because I missed out on Dreamstate LA and heard nothing but AMAZING reviews about the event from a lot of my friends from Southern California. I just had to experience an all trance event because its my escape from reality and I wanted to be in trance heaven.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I promote for Insomniac and have been going to festivals since 2012. My first event was Beyond Wonderland Bay Area 2012, but Dreamstate totally blew me away. First, meeting trance families from all over the US before Day 1 of Dreamstate was MAGICAL. Second, the PLUR vibes throughout both nights were so BEAUTIFUL.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
I was most looking forward to Aly & Fila because I missed their FSOE event in San Jose.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Lawrence & Fleming’s set totally blew me away. The Psy Trance in their set was PHENOMENAL. I honestly thought their set was one of the best out of Sunday’s lineup.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
The most memorable moment of Dreamstate SF was getting so many ravers to help pick up Jose Perales, from Under The Electric Sky, and crowd surf during Aly & Fila’s set. So many ravers even switched with other ravers holding his wheelchair, so that Jose can have one of the best views and experience as we all did. It was such a beautiful moment to be a part of that I literally cried with tears of joy simply seeing all of the PLUR love being shown to Jose.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
I have been listening to trance music since my teenage years from high school. Listening to trance music takes me to my paradise. Listening to music in general is my escape from reality. Trance music soothes my soul from any pain, hardships, or life in general.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Favorite artists vary for every genre, but in this case for trance some of my favorite artists are Armin Van Buuren, Above & Beyond, Aly & Fila, GAIA, and Solarstone.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
If I was a DJ, my name would be DJ RAIZE because I would want to play music in order to raise and lift peoples’ emotions to bring them to their happy place to escape reality.
Age: 24
Hometown: Danville, CA
Traveled to Dreamstate from: San Francisco, CA
Favorite Color: Black
IG: @tamlynk
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
After hearing the reviews about Dreamstate SoCal, it reaffirmed that I had to to go to Dreamstate SF. Not only that, but the live sets from that Dreamstate further convinced me to go.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I kinda stopped keeping track as I’ve been going to events since 2008, but safe to say over a hundred. In comparison to other events, Dreamstate definitely had more devoted fans with all the trance families from around the world which was amazing to see. In addition, the vibes were on point and everyone seemed to be having a good time.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
John O’ Callaghan 🙂
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
John O’ Callaghan of course, it was my first time seeing him and he definitely did not disappoint. His set was both uplifting and it kept me and my friends dancing into the night.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Finally getting our group photo, I swear we are never able to make it happen at events. I know it sounds lame, but seriously getting a group photo is a mission.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance has the power to uplift you and put you in a more positive state of mind. This is what trance does for me.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Tchami, Above & Beyond, Wax Motif, John O’Callaghan, SNBRN
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
DJ Pusheen =^._.^=
Age: 24
Hometown: San Francisco
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Daly City
Favorite Color: Red
IG/Twitter: @RosieTRK
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I’ve been to countless events (more than I can count) and none of them compare to Dreamstate. It’s definitely its own kind featuring nothing except trance artists and amazing production value.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Honestly Vini Vici, Bryan Kearney and Simon Patterson were all fighting for my personal “must see” list for the weekend and I was not disappointed.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Fleming & Lawrence definitely was the biggest surprise to me. I’m still new to psytrance and I had never heard of Fleming & Lawrence so I didn’t know what to expect. I couldn’t have been happier to be on the dance floor when they started their set.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
I did go to Dreamstate LA but I can’t really say which one I enjoyed more. Its more that I enjoyed each differently. Dreamstate LA I discovered that I liked psytrance and met a lot of new people and became closer to friends that I didn’t know well before. Dreamstate SF just felt like I was coming home and raging hard with my family along with having reunions with friends I met at Dreamstate LA. Each show had its own quirks that I liked and didn’t like but both were amazing events.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
The most memorable moment for me was probably seeing Christina Novelli’s face singing Concrete Angel on the giant visual background and everyone singing and crying along (including myself =P).
Who are some of your favorite artists?
If its restricted to trance only, definitely the earlier versions of Armin, Tiesto and Paul Oakenfold. #dealwithit
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
DJ Rosie or DJ ST(or something that has to do with stormtroopers without me getting sued by Disney…)
Age: 21
Hometown: San Mateo, CA
Traveled to Dreamstate from: The Peninsula
Favorite Color: Blue
IG/Twitter: @albertryan / @aalbertryan
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
Dreamstate LA was epic that I have to go for round 2 in SF.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I lost the count, but Dreamstate is definitely one for the books.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
Aly & Fila!
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Vini Vici. I was dancing non-stop for an hour. Every song he played was a banger!
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
Yes. I guess the vibe SoCal vibe made DSLA better. Why? I can’t tell. It’s hard to explain because it was something that you have to experience yourself.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
After a year of waiting, I finally got to hear Ben Nicky’s live set. My crew and I were also lucky enough to have a photo taken with him.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance makes me happy, sad, hopeful, and a bad ass (Sometimes).
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Aly & Fila, Ben Nicky, Bryan Kearney, Standerwick. etc.
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
Illastron (My last name)
Age: 25
Hometown: Alameda CA
Traveled to Dreamstate from: Alameda CA
Favorite Color: green / blue
IG/Twitter: via6six7 / via.joel
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
I’m a trance lover and after going to countless festivals and shows both big and small, I noticed that trance crowds are by far the best! Also you can’t beat all those names in one spot!
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
Well in the hundreds by now and Dreamstate is well in the top 5!
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
That’s always a hard question to answer but out of all of them it would have to be Gareth Emery. One deciding factor is I’ve seen him only 2 times.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
Markus Schulz, I knew he would be good but he definitely gave me my money worth!
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
When “Now I can breath again – Simon peterson” played and the group around me just started linking arms and embraced the music. No phones, no distractions just embracing the music with one another. That moment I won’t forget.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance takes me away, more specifically female voiced trance. It’s one of the few genres that I can get lost in for hours on end. To me, Trance is the music that will put you in a trance lol It means to connect us on a deeper level than just what’s on the outside – on a soul level.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
ATB, Dash Berlin, TripL, Armin, Kygo, Gareth Emery, M83, John Beaver, and Nic Chagall. Just to name a few ^.^
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
HUGS, because I do love to give hugs haha.
Why did you choose to come to Dreamstate SF?
Because I love trance and Paul Oakenfold full on fluro set from Dreamstate SoCal was so fire I had to see it again.
How many events have you been to and how does Dreamstate compare?
I’ve been to I’ve been to hundreds of events I stopped counting after the first year. Dreamstate is definitely at the top of my events list. A list that includes EDC and Dirtybird campout voted #1 festival of 2015 by DJmag.
Which artist were you most looking forward to seeing?
I feel obligated to say Bryan Kearney bcuz he just foreal too good but it was Bryan Kearney bcuz he is foreal just too good.
Which set ended up blowing you away the most? Why?
John O’Callaghan because he came on so hard and then he ended with rapture with some uplifting sounds.
Did you go to Dreamstate LA? If so, which one did you enjoy more and why?
Yes and I enjoyed SoCal much better. The lineup and venue was on point. It had an underground feel to it.
Favorite or most memorable moment of Dreamstate?
Going crazy hearing so dark trance and psytrance beats. There’s a dance me and a friend do. I call it Cholo beats. I can show you better then I can describe.
How does trance make you feel? What does trance mean to you?
Trance makes me feel like there’s heaven on earth. Like I’m always safe and everything will be ok. Trance to me unites people in a peaceful state and brings love all around you.
Who are some of your favorite artists?
Bryan Kearney, Simon Patterson, Standerwick, Aly & Fila
If you were a DJ, what would your name be?
I’d be called Ben Godinez I like when DJs use their real names but if I had to make one up I’d be DJ Ben go dumb
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