WHO?
Dystopian - a DJ and music producer driven by the powerful energy of psy-trance and 90s trance.
The Journey So Far...
My DJ journey began with a dream, sparked by the sights and sounds of local festivals and underground events in the Northwest of England. Standing in the crowd, I was captivated by the energy, the creativity, and the connection DJs had with their audience. I remember watching them command the dancefloor - blending tracks, shaping emotion, and creating something unforgettable - and thinking, one day, that’ll be me. From that moment on, the drive was clear: not just to reach those stages, but to bring my sound to legendary European festivals and share that same feeling with others.
Choosing a name felt just as important as shaping my sound. I wanted something that reflected my personality, my vision, and the themes that inspire me. The name "Dystopian" felt right - it’s a nod to the gritty, dystopian art and visual aesthetics I’ve always loved, and it allowed me to keep part of my real name, Ian, embedded in my identity. It’s personal, distinct, and aligns perfectly with the atmosphere I aim to create in my music.
As Dystopian, I’m building a world - sonically and visually - where underground rave culture, analogue nostalgia, and futuristic intensity collide. Whether I’m behind the decks or deep in the studio, I’m always chasing that euphoric moment, and doing it with authenticity, passion, and a deep respect for the scene that raised me.
The Sound...
My sound as a producer and DJ is deeply rooted in the late ‘90s and early 2000s rave culture the golden era that shaped me. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of trance, techno, and acid that my mother would play, those early influences became the foundation of everything I create. There’s something timeless about that raw, euphoric energy, and I strive to keep it alive in my work.
I use traditional '90s samples, analogue textures, and gritty, nostalgic elements to build tracks and DJ sets that feel both familiar and fresh. Whether I’m spinning vinyl or producing in the studio, I’m always chasing that feeling - the pulse of a packed room, the glow of strobes on a foggy dancefloor, and the sense of escape that only music can bring.
If I had to describe my sound, I’d say it’s a journey - one that’s energetic, immersive, and euphoric. It balances dystopian darkness with uplifting intensity, drawing people in and keeping them locked into the moment. For me, it’s not just about tracks - it’s about storytelling through sound, about connecting with something deeper, and about honouring the past while pushing forward.
The Process
I don’t overcomplicate my process. I believe in letting the music speak for itself – I go with the flow and see where the sounds take me. There’s something incredibly organic about allowing the creative process to unfold naturally, without forcing it. Whether I’m in the studio or behind the decks, I follow the vibe and let the energy of the moment shape the direction. For me, it’s all about being in tune with the music, not controlling it.
What makes my music stand out in the trance scene is my approach to reimagining the old and making it new. I’m drawn to the raw, emotional energy of the classics, and I’m passionate about keeping that essence alive while adding my own modern touch. Whether it’s through sampling, remixes, or re-creating that first unforgettable wave of euphoria, I aim to capture the spirit of those early rave experiences and bring them into the now. I want listeners to feel the same connection, the same rush, while discovering something fresh. It’s about honoring the roots of trance while pushing the boundaries of what it can be.
This balance of nostalgia and innovation is at the heart of my music – it’s not just about what sounds good, but about creating moments that resonate emotionally, stirring memories and building new experiences for everyone who hears it.
Connecting with You
Music is about connection – whether it’s on the dancefloor, through the energy of a live performance, or online. For me, it’s all about creating those moments that resonate with people, no matter where they are. I thrive on that electric energy when I’m playing live, feeling the crowd’s pulse and responding to the vibe. But the connection doesn’t end there. Through my YouTube series with friends, I’ve found a way to reach beyond the local scene and connect with listeners worldwide. We combine live DJing and VJing, bringing together the power of music and visuals, and creating something immersive for the global audience.
In this digital age, platforms like TikTok and Instagram allow me to share the energy of my performances, even when I’m not physically on stage. These platforms aren’t just about promoting my music; they’re about sharing the vibe, giving followers a behind-the-scenes look, and creating a dialogue with a community that stretches across borders. Whether it’s sharing new mixes, recording live sets, or just giving a glimpse into my creative process, social media helps me keep the connection alive and vibrant, making sure the energy never stops.
Ultimately, it’s not just about playing music – it’s about building a community, uniting through sound, and creating a space where people can feel something real, no matter where they are or how they experience it.
Looking Ahead
Whether behind the decks or in the studio, my goal is to create immersive soundscapes that take listeners on a journey – from the depths of dystopia to the heights of euphoria. Every track, every set, is an opportunity to transport the audience, to create an atmosphere that resonates deeply and moves them physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s about crafting moments of pure energy, allowing the music to tell a story that unfolds throughout the night, and giving people the space to lose themselves in sound.
The future of Dystopian Music is all about growth, innovation, and most importantly, staying true to the sounds that have shaped me. While I’m always looking forward and experimenting with new techniques, genres, and ideas, I’ll never lose sight of the roots that define my identity. The balance between nostalgia and innovation is what makes my music unique – blending the old with the new to create something that feels timeless yet fresh.
As a music producer and DJ, my ultimate goal is simple: to bring the euphoria of trance and techno to audiences all over the world. I want to play the music I love on stages, at festivals, and in intimate club settings – connecting with people through the universal power of sound. The energy of the crowd, the shared moments of joy, the unity that music can bring – that’s what drives me.
But my journey isn’t just about performing. Dystopian Music is also about constant evolution – producing, collaborating, and constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I’m not just focused on solo projects; I’m excited to team up with other artists, experiment with new styles, and create together. There’s so much to learn, and so much to create, and I know that the best is yet to come.
Stay tuned for upcoming projects, releases, and performances – I’ll be sharing everything on my socials, so you’ll never miss out on the next chapter. The journey of Dystopian Music has just begun, and I’m incredibly excited for the road ahead. Together, with the support of my listeners and collaborators, we’ll continue to grow, evolve, and chase the music that drives us. Let’s see where this journey takes us.