Having been hotly tipped by Tiësto a few years ago, Richard Durand has done his trance forefather proud in the ensuing years. 2011 has been “an amazing year” and saw the Dutchman mix his second instalment of the Black Hole Recordings 'In Search Of Sunrise' compilation back in the summer.
“It's always nice to work on that, and get in the summer vibe when putting it together before a busy few months of touring starts,” he says.
Also on Black Hole this year was a second full-length Durand album. 'Wide Awake' included key singles like the title track featuring Ellie Lawson, and 'Explode' featuring Kash, all of which showcase the man's lucid trance/house (or “trouse”, as he prefers to call it) style…
“A couple of years ago you couldn't start with house, then play trance,” says Richard, speaking on the phone from Australia during yet another tour. “But people are more open to new things now. It's been a good development in the scene this year and has influenced me as a DJ and a producer. It's been really exciting!”
Gig-wise there have been stop-offs all across Europe, Asia and America, as well as huge festival appearances at Global Gathering (in two different countries), Ultra Music Festival and Godskitchen (again on two separate continents), plus some esteemed sets as part of the In Search Of Sunrise tour alongside the likes of Cosmic Gate and Gareth Emery.
KRISTAN J CARYL