Dreamstate SoCal 2024: Five artists to catch at the festival

Dreamstate SoCal 2024 returns to the Queen Mary Waterfront in Long Beach for its second edition at the venue! To further build the anticipation for Southern California’s trance music destination, we’ve picked out five performances you don’t want to miss out on. 

As fall deepens and the cool, crisp air settles over Southern California, Dreamstate SoCal returns to the Queen Mary Waterfront in Long Beach, inviting trance music enthusiasts to embrace the season with an immersive, transcendent experience. The shifting autumn light glimmers across the water, setting the stage for a weekend that promises not only music, but a profound emotional journey under the late-night sky from November 22-23.

For 2024, the festival boasts a stellar lineup of legendary and groundbreaking artists such as Andrew Rayel, Anfisa Letyago, MaRLo, Solarstone, Ace Ventura, Ben Gold, Darude, and more who will provide the warmth needed to offset the chill in the air. To help you make the most of this trance haven, here’s a look at the top five can’t-miss performances at Dreamstate SoCal 2024. 

Astrix

For fans seeking an intense, immersive journey, Astrix is a must-see at Dreamstate SoCal 2024. The psytrance master is celebrated for his high-energy, mind-bending tracks that transport listeners into uncharted sonic territory. With hits like ‘Deep Jungle Walk’ and ‘Adhana,’ Astrix’s sets are a visceral experience, blending dark, driving rhythms with hypnotic melodies. Psytrance enthusiasts will find themselves fully engaged as he takes over the decks, bringing a unique flavor to the festival that showcases the deeper, experimental side of trance.

Ørjan Nilsen & Mark Sixma present nilsix

Norwegian powerhouse Ørjan Nilsen and Dutch maestro Mark Sixma join forces as nilsix, promising a set filled with high-octane energy and infectious melodies. Known for their individual hits like Nilsen’s ‘Violetta’ and Sixma’s ‘Requiem,’ the duo brings a seamless blend of progressive and melodic trance in tracks such as ‘Fired Up’ and ‘Falls Apart’ that captures the best of both worlds. This collaborative project adds an exciting twist to the Dreamstate lineup, delivering a set filled with dynamic drops, captivating rhythms, and plenty of surprises. Don’t miss them as they showcase the synergy that makes nilsix an act to remember.

Paul van Dyk

As one of the original pioneers of the genre, Paul van Dyk has influenced trance music since the ’90s and continues to leave his mark with every set he plays. Known for classics like ‘For an Angel’ and ‘We Are Alive,’ the German artist’s powerful, emotive style resonates with fans across generations. At Dreamstate SoCal, he’ll bring his unique fusion of old-school and modern trance, promising a set that both long-time fans and newcomers can enjoy.

Armin van Buuren

No Dreamstate experience is complete without a performance from A State Of Trance bossman Armin van Buuren when he is on the lineup. With over two decades of hits and a commitment to continually pushing the trance genre forward, Armin is sure to deliver an unforgettable set. His recent releases such as singles like ‘Pulstar,’ ‘Love Is Eternity,’ ‘Space Case’ and ‘Love Is A Drug’ reflect his ability to evolve while staying true to his roots. Expect a powerful, emotional set from the Dutch artist as he takes everyone in attendance into a “DreamState Of Trance.” 

Above & Beyond

Few acts can ignite a crowd like Above & Beyond. Known for their emotionally charged sets and iconic productions like ‘Sun & Moon’ and ‘Thing Called Love,’ the trio, composed of English artists Jono Grant and Tony McGuinness and Finnish artist Paavo Siljamäki, has long held a special place in the hearts of trance fans. Their performances are transformative, often featuring heartfelt messages that foster an atmosphere of unity and connection. This year, Above & Beyond are set to deliver an uplifting set full of Anjuna classics and new releases such as ‘React’ and ‘Heart Of Stone,’ creating an unforgettable experience for Dreamstate attendees.

Which artists are you most excited to catch at Dreamstate SoCal 2024? View the lineup and follow Dreamstate’s Instagram page to be the first to know when set times drop. Tickets for the festival and on-site afterparties can be bought here. This year’s edition is set to be one for the books, so get ready to reenter trance music paradise at Dreamstate!