Music Definitions

Progressive : styles : progressive trance

In general:

Progressive trance (sometimes melodic trance) is popular sub-genre in trance music. It has elements of fast techno music and ambient music. The basic formula of trance became even more focused on the anthemic qualities and melodies, moving away from predictable arppegiated analog synth patterns (aka acid synth lines). Acoustic elements and spacey pads became popular, compositions leaned towards incremental changes (aka progressive structures), sometimes composed in thirds (like Brian Transeau frequently does), buildups and breakdowns became more elaborate and intense. The sound became more and more ethereal and heavenly. This sound came to be known as epic trance (sometimes called melodic trance or anthem trance), and became the foundation of what the modern progressive trance sound is today.

Progressive structure:

The structure of progressive trance is different from a typical techno track. The introduction generally starts with slower ambient beats. Following this section is a "breakdown" and then the main melody. There are build-ups with faster beats, and the track usually concludes with an "outro" that typically slows down as the track ends, though it can be fast. Electronic effects and vocals are usually in both the intro and the coda.

Progressive trance became popular because of the build-ups of beats and sparing use of vocals. Phrases can be any multiple of 4 bars (4-8-12-16 etc.) in most typical progressive trance tracks. Phrases usually begin with the introduction of a new or different melody, or the introduction of hi-hats to the track. In progressive trance there may be four more simultaneous layers.

Artists include:

Known artists in this electronic music genre include James Holden, Luke Chable, Transa, 4Strings, DJs Sasha and John Digweed. Newer artists include Terje Bakke, The Last Atlant, Hydroid, Gerry Cueto.

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