New releases this week: Trance

Review: Bristol's Dream Software collective (and label) have long been fans of the mid 1990s work of Alex Silvi, best known for his releases as Alien Signal. So much so, in fact, that they reached out to the Italian producer and asked whether they could put out an EP of some of their favourite back catalogue tracks. That's what they've done here, flitting between the chiming melodies, warped electronics and shuffling beats of 'North Polar Stars', the chugging dream house-in-space flex of 'Brilliant Evening Planets', the stargazing proto-trance (with jazzy solos) of 'Quantum Limit', the intergalactic, acid-flecked dancefloor psychedelia of 'Violent Volcanoes of Lo' and the bleeping lead lines, immersive chords and bustling beats of 'Atomic (Esoteric Mix)'. An expertly curated and beautifully presented retrospective

Review: Ministry of Sound's latest double CD delivers a vibrant collection of this year's biggest dance anthems alongside fresh tracks from emerging talent. Featuring chart-topping hits from Calvin Harris & Ellie Goulding, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike and Oliver Heldens, the compilation is packed with infectious melodies and powerhouse collaborations. With contributions from the likes of Swedish House Mafia, Clean Bandit, Becky Hill and Rudimental, it offers an exciting mix of vocal-driven hits and deep, danceable beats. On the second CD, you'll find bangers from Dom Dolla, Gorgon City, TSHA and Eats Everything, as well as remixes from Solomun and Pete Tong. The perfect soundtrack to dance through the year's most unforgettable moments.