PICK OF THE WEEK: Armin van Buuren – Intense

DANCE music changes as quick as the sweaty fans jump around in the neon-lit clubs. At the moment, the dance scene focus seems to be centred on ‘house’ and ‘drum ‘n’ bass’.

Just as it seems everyone has forgotten about that little niche genre called ‘trance’, Dutch DJing sensation Armin van Buuren is back with a new album.

Buuren’s Intense is everything dance music needs at the moment; something to step out of the sea of mundanity which is sweeping the nation’s dancefloors.

Title-track Intense is a brilliant concoction of classical melodies, synth-bashing beats and pulsating notes.

Alone is a lyrically-heavy, summer anthem in-the-waiting. The track draws upon 80s-inspired beats, instantly making you feel the need to be a on a beach in a far away country without a care in the world.

Armin van Buuren is undoubtedly one of the greatest, electro-pioneers of our time. Intense is the album of the forthcoming months. Whether you love or hate dance music, give this album a go...

OLLIE’S HOT THREE THIS WEEK

  • The Fall @ East Village Arts Club, Liverpool. Friday, May 10
  • Alt-J @ Academy, Liverpool. Saturday, May 11
  • Noah & The Whale @ Opera House, Manchester. Monday, May 13