Trance journeyman Max Graham continues to refine his sound as a DJ/producer and blaze new musical trails on his own terms. The Canadian, who was born in London and is based in Amsterdam, released his majestic Cycles 5 compilation in January, toured all over the place to support it and is now getting ready for a big summer by issuing his latest and greatest track called “Purple” on his Rebrand Records. Graham’s popular Cycles Radio show topped 150 shows earlier in the year, and he shows no signs of slowing down. With his finger on the pulse of all things trance, progressive, tech-house and beyond, we asked Graham to share his five favorite tracks of the moment on SoundCloud.
Max Graham’s “Purple” is released on May 12. Graham plays Case Study at Riff Lounge in Chicago on May 29, Fez Ballroom in Portland on May 31 and FSOE vs Subculture at Westerunie in Amsterdam on June 7.
1. Guy J – “Dizzy Moments”
Guy J has used such simple chords but to such great effect, creating the perfect mood with this one. This is a perfect set ender for me. I’m so happy to hear more of this melodic, progressive sound returning to the scene.
2. Hollen – “X Line” (Original Mix)
Hollen is always in my sets with one track or another. This new one is the perfect building track that lets my dance floor know that warmup is over and we’re ready to go to the next level. It builds in a sneaky way but when the peak arrives it lifts the floor perfectly.
3. Mr. Bizz – “Undermind”
Sounds quite basic at home, but I assure you this blows up the spot. Pretty straightforward but perfectly executed, and when adding some effects live on top of the already ace production it’s massive. A mainstay in my sets at the moment.
4. GusGus – “Crossfade” (Maceo Plex Remix)
After the peak of my sets I drop into something like this. It’s a huge remix from Maceo Plex. Lovely to hear such a fat production and some really lovely sounds. Going to be playing this all summer, I think.
5. Boris – “Music is Medicine” (Original Mix)
I’m a bit late on this one but it’s still rocking my sets every show. Another simple straightforward techno monster but it’s clean, crisp and fat as hell. Love it.