2013 was the year that saw Russian prodigy Arty’s transformation from a next-gen hero of the trance scene into a DJ titan who’s performed at some of the world’s biggest festivals. New singles Together We Are' and 'Grand Finale'both showcased his growing turn towards the main stage and progressive house, and he was given the chance to showcase them at UMF in Miami, as well as Tomorrowland in Belgium, which he nominates as his year’s highlights.

“It's impossible to explain the feeling when you are standing in front of thousands of people and doing what you do best and love most,” Arty told DJ Mag. As he shifts increasingly towards the main stages, Arty resists the idea he’s necessarily producing house exclusively for the big rooms. “My music is on the edge of different styles, and it still sounds more progressive. My last remix for London Grammar Hey Now can totally prove this.And yeah, trance is still massive! Armin van Buuren and Above & Beyond are headlining every big festival, and they have huge support every time.”

As an artist who rose to fame on the back of his innovative work as a producer, Arty says there are challenges inherent in stepping up as a DJ. With experience though, the whole world becomes his studio. “You start to work in hotels and planes, then you test out your tracks at shows and tweak it after. I think it's a good opportunity to develop your track in the right direction."