TRANCE VETERANS DARREN PORTER AND XIJARO N PITCH TEAM UP TO RELEASE "REACH FOR THE STARS," VIA DREAMSTATE RECORDS

The two veterans are joining forces to release their inspiring new collab on Dreamstate Records.

Darren Porter is teaming up with XiJaro & Pitch on their newest single, “Reach for the Stars,” an awe-inducing, uplifting trance collab releasing via Dreamstate Records on July 5th.


Riddles with hope and optimism, “Reach for the Stars" is an enthralling and uplifting trance offering. The instrumental is underscored by an orchestral backbone, which is adorned with ethereal vocal chants and bright bursts of euphoric arpeggiated melodies. Written about the hard work and determination needed to chase one's aspirations, the track’s message emphasizes the notion to aim higher, and embodies the endless pursuit of achieving personal goals.

Based out of England, Darren Porter is a revered name within the trance music community, responsible for some of the farthest-reaching uplifting and vocal-led club tracks from the last decade. Darren was honored with the coveted FSOE ‘Track of the Year’ title in 2018, and has performed at high-profile shows such as Transmission, Dreamstate (including its flagship festival inSoCal, as well as satellite editions hosted in Australia and Europe), Airbeat Festival, Nature One, Ministry of Sound, and Untold Festival.

Darren Porter sheds light on the meaning of the collaboration, saying, “It was a pleasure working with XiJaro & Pitch. Their knowledge and understanding of music made this one of the best tracks I’ve ever worked on.”

Hailing from the Netherlands, XiJaro & Pitch is a trance music duo that has been putting their stamp on an endless supply of uplifting trance music since forming the project in 2014. They recently graced the label with their “Over The Moon” single, garnering radio support from Alex M.O.R.P.H., Paul van Dyk, Mr Smith, and KUNO.

XiJaro & Pitch also touched on the collaboration with Porter: “Ever since we started XiJaro & Pitch, Darren has been a major inspiration for us and our productions. Collaborating on this track with one of our absolute idols has been an amazing dream come true. We are extremely proud of this one and are thrilled to finally share it with the world.”

With “Reach for the Stars,” Darren Porter and XiJaro & Pitch present a testament to the hard work, determination, and passion that pays off when fully committing to chasing your dreams.

Darren Porter is a renowned British DJ and music producer celebrated for his contributions to the trance music scene. With a passion for electronic music that ignited in his early teens, Darren has carved a niche for himself as one of the

leading artists in the genre. His signature sound, characterized by powerful melodies, intricate soundscapes, and driving beats, has captivated audiences worldwide.

Darren's journey into the world of music production began with a deep fascination for synthesizers and sound design. Over the years, he honed his skills and developed a unique style that seamlessly blends emotional depth with energetic rhythms. His breakthrough came with a series of successful releases on prominent labels such as Armada Music, Black Hole Recordings, and FSOE Recordings.

One of Darren's most notable achievements is his collaboration with some of the biggest names in trance, including Sean Tyas, Aly & Fila, and Ferry Tayle. Tracks like "Nova 7," Split," and "Remember" have become anthems within the trance community, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

In addition to his studio work, Darren Porter is a dynamic live performer, known for his electrifying DJ sets at major festivals and clubs around the globe. His ability to connect with the audience and create an immersive experience has made him a sought-after act in the trance circuit.


Darren's contributions to the music industry extend beyond his own

productions. He is also involved in mentoring aspiring artists, sharing his

expertise through masterclasses and online tutorials. His dedication to the craft and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of trance music continue to

inspire both his peers and the next generation of producers.

With a career that shows no signs of slowing down, Darren Porter remains a pivotal figure in the world of electronic dance music, consistently delivering tracks that resonate with emotion and energy, solidifying his legacy as a true innovator in the genre.

Connect with Darren Porter

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XiJaro & Pitch is the trance music producer/DJ duo of Xander van Dommelen and Anthony Reyers. Formed in 2014, they are best known as the musical minds behind dozens of spine-tingling, uplifting releases on some of the most

prestigious labels in trance and as the creators of the weekly Twitch show and podcast “Chasing Dreams.”

Most notably their work has already seen them be hand-picked by Armin van Buuren for his famous “A State Of Trance” mix compilation as well as landing

them the opportunity to make their US debut at the Dreamstate SoCal festival in 2021.

Anthony, born in Belgium on April 29th, 1992, never let the fact he is blind stop him from chasing his dreams and living his passion for melodic dance music. Discovering trance at the age of 10, listening to the sounds of Tiësto and Armin van Buuren through the FM airwaves, he immediately knew his life would be changed forever. Not much later, in 2005, he started his own trance radio show as DJ Pitch.

Xander, born in Holland on August 28th, 1985, felt the pull of the emotion and energy that makes trance music so unique through the same airwaves, with the radio show A State Of Trance being a big early influence. Armin van Buuren’s Year Mixes inspired him to make his own mash-ups and megamixes, which

would later lead to him producing his own music. In 2005 he founded the XiJaro music project along with some friends and, like Anthony, he soon started to

broadcast his own radio mixes to the world.

Anthony and Xander crossed paths during their radio efforts in 2007 and began discussing music and exchanging guest mixes. This quickly led to more

collaborations; first on mixes and mash-ups, and eventually also on their own music productions. Feeling their skills really complemented each other, they decided to officially join forces as “XiJaro & Pitch” in 2014 and set out to take their adventure in music to the next level.

Connect with XiJaro & Pitch

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | SoundCloud | Spotify

FINAL COUNTDOWN TO FAMILY PIKNIK 2024

3 & 4 August 2024 – Frontignan, France

With just one month to go, the excitement is building for the globally renowned annual music festival, Family Piknik. Since its inception in 2012, Family Piknik has flourished to claim its position as one of the world’s leading festivals, as voted in the DJ Mag Top 100 Festival Awards in 2022 and 2023. Returning to its picturesque seaside location in Frontignan, South of France, the open-air festival returns with its stacked lineup for the two-day event on August 3 & 4, 2024.
 
Ready to host some of the globe’s most celebrated DJs and live acts from the house, techno, and hardstyle circuits, Family Piknik attendees will be spoilt for choice with over sixty artists across the festival’s three stages – the Main Stage, Nomad Stage, and the Hard Stage.
 
The Main Stage will see performances by Albanø B2B Mood Gorning, Amber Broos, Anfisa Letyago, Camelphat, Deer Jade, Dubfire B2B Ilario Alicante, Eelke Kleijn, Emanate, Fideles, Layton Giordani B2B Nicole Moudaber, LP Giobbi, Massano, Nicolas Moore B2B Nikko, Reinier Zonneveld (Live), Stella Bossi, Sven Väth, Tom Pooks & Sebass aka Harmonik Kontrol (Live), and Who Else.
 
The immersive Nomad Stage will offer a mixture of DJ and live sets, including artists such as Alan Dixon, Alex Escalofrio, Andhim, Arno, Argia, Berengere, Cabanne, Erol Alkan, Hostom (Live), Josh Wink, Magda B2B Morgan, Mathew Jonson (Live), Monark, Priku, Shimza, Stephan Jolk, Talal, Theus Mago, and Thurman.
 
The electrifying Hard Stage will take things to a heavy dimension with the likes of Balagan, Dr. Peacock, El Desperado, FLKN, Hackerz, Hysta, Jacidorex, Le Bard, Le Bask, Nikita, Powercore & MC Hardervoice, Rooler, Sköne, Sonico, Teksa, Unicorn on K, and Vortek’s.
 
Hosting a free opening party on Friday, August 2, 2024, Family Piknik will warmup from 5pm, and will continue into the early morning with sets by Abstraal, Janoz, Krispr B2B Poem, Lucye B2B Kiko, Nihil Young, Propellar (Live), and Tom Pooks B2B Siavash.
 
In an interview, Family Piknik founder Tom Pooks shared insights into what sets the festival apart. "I launched the festival in 2012 with a strong concept inspired by open-air events in Canada and Germany but unique to France. We created an open-air, daytime festival open to all generations, with free entrance for kids and seniors aged 55+. The concept of everyone bringing their own food ('pique-nique' in French) formed the DNA of Family Piknik."
 
He also highlighted the festival’s growth: "From 1,200 attendees at the beginning, we've grown to 25,000 over the weekend in recent editions. Our festival experience, with doors opening in the morning and closing at 2 am, offers a distinct 'southern' atmosphere with its seaside location and vibrant decorations."
 
On curating the lineup, Tom mentioned, "Each year, we aim for exclusive performances from influential artists, blending established names with emerging talents. My decades of experience as a DJ and connections with international artists help in curating a diverse lineup. This year, we're introducing the first Hard Stage in our history."
 
Family Piknik also emphasizes community and environmental consciousness. "We've stopped selling plastics, pioneered free eco-cups, use solar energy, and collaborate with green local collectives," said Tom. "Our core values of fun, mixity, and happiness guide our events, ensuring they cater to a diverse audience while maintaining our unique identity."
 
Looking ahead, Tom shared, "We're expanding to new territories, with our first big production abroad in Cyprus on August 29-30. We're excited to bring the Family Piknik experience to new audiences."

Don't miss out on this unique and all-encompassing event, secure your tickets below. 

Remaining Tickets to Family Piknik

SXM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES DEBUT IBIZA SUMMER RESIDENCY: BRINGING THE CARIBBEAN INFLUENCE TO THE WHITE ISLE

The renowned SXM Festival is thrilled to announce its first-ever summer residency in Ibiza. This series of three exclusive events will bring the unique SXM Festival magic to the iconic White Island, promising unparalleled electronic music community spirit.

click here to purchase your tickets

The residency will take place at Akasha/Las Dalias, a venue chosen for its exceptional sound quality, exquisite design, and boutique size, perfectly embodying the off-the-beaten-path charm that SXM Festival is celebrated for. Attendees can look forward to intimate events filled with surprise performances and the signature decorations that have made SXM Festival a standout in the global festival scene.

Resident DJs for this residency are next level and include the talented Kadosh who is known internationally for his distinctive blend of melodic house and techno. He is joined by Julian Prince, the founder, artistic director, and curator of SXM Festival whose love of the culture fueled the desire to create this experience. Julian’s music reflects the festival's visionary narrative and evident passion for what this music and movement always stood for—love and happiness.


Next is a true dance music legend Sander Kleinenberg who has held major residencies in Ibiza over the last two decades and now makes a triumphant comeback with SXM Festival.

The first event in the series will also feature special performances by SXM Festival favourite Nicolas Masseyeff who is known for his deep, rhythmic intensity and his immense library of releases including his recent collaboration with Parallel on Crosstown Rebels. Oxia, Fellow trailblazer Oxia also lines up and is one of the artist pillars of SXM Festival who promises to deliver the same goods that have made him such a legend in the scene.

The following events of this trilogy will feature the festival’s favourites and are acts to be featured in the next edition of SXM Festival, unfolding March 12-16, 2025.

SXM Festival is committed to creating unique and magical nights for all who venture to join. Each event will be a testament to the elements that have made SXM Festival renowned; immersive decorations, top-tier sound quality, and an atmosphere of surprise and high end cabaret circus like performers.

“Bringing the Caribbean vibes to Ibiza is a dream come true,” says Julian Prince. “We’re excited to merge the best of both worlds, creating a series of events that will be remembered for their innovation, intimacy, and incredible music. This is the beginning of something very special”

Sander Kleinenberg shares his excitement, stating, “My long-standing love affair with Ibiza is ready for a rejuvenation. In conjunction with SXM, I will join the residency at Akasha for three nights, making me a part of the Ibiza I fell in love with many moons ago. Akasha represents the authentic spirit Ibiza is famous for.”

Lineup (5th July)

Julian Prince
Kadosh
Nicolas Masseyeff
Oxia
Sander Kleinenberg