IS trance music dead in Malaysia? Once a hot topic for debate, the answer has been made abundantly clear: it's alive, thriving and more euphoric than ever.
This year, trance fever gripped the nation with festivals popping up like mushrooms after rain.
The momentum hasn't slowed and spearheading this movement is the trailblazing Pinkfish, which debuted its latest sub-brand, Pinkfish Arena, with the highly anticipated 'Find Your Harmony 2024' show recently at Kuala Lumpur's Mega Star Arena.
LIGHT AND SOUND EXTRAVAGANZA
Walking into the venue that night, I joined a crowd of more than 3,000 trance fans.
The air was electric with excitement, as the space transformed into a dome of light, sound, and bliss.
This wasn't just an event — it was an experience designed to connect hearts and souls through music.
Kicking things off at 6pm were Malaysia's trance stalwarts, Chukiess & Whackboi.
With their powerful beats and hypnotic rhythms, they warmed up the crowd setting the perfect tone for the night ahead.
Representing the country's thriving electronic music scene, the duo proved that local talent is more than capable of holding its own on the global stage.
ALTER EGO
At 7 pm, the crowd erupted as the man of the hour, Andrew Rayel, made his first appearance — but not as himself.
Rayel introduced his techno alter ego, Arisey, for the very first time in Malaysia.
The Moldovan producer and DJ, who has been captivating audiences since 2009, stepped into new sonic territory with this atmospheric and moodier set.
It was a daring move, showcasing his versatility and ability to push beyond traditional trance boundaries.
HIGH-ENERGY PERFORMANCES
By the time Billy Gillies took over at 8pm, the energy was dialled up to maximum.
The Northern Irish DJ and rising trance prodigy brought a high-octane performance, delivering each drop with precision and leaving the audience hungry for more.
Next up at 9pm was the legendary Giuseppe Ottaviani, a trance icon with more than two decades of experience.
Known for his energetic live sets and masterful production skills, the Italian DJ and producer had the crowd spellbound.
Each beat felt like a jolt of ecstasy, and his set showcased why he remains a giant in the scene.
BLISSFUL HARMONY
Then, at 10 pm, Rayel returned to deliver his signature Find Your Harmony set.
He masterfully blended uplifting melodies with electrifying basslines, keeping every hand in the air and everybody moving.
Rayel's charisma and energy were infectious, cementing his status as a global trance powerhouse.
DYNAMIC DUO
But the night's pièce de résistance came at 11pm when Rayel and Ottaviani joined forces for an exclusive back-to-back set, a first for Malaysian fans.
Seeing these two legends on the same stage was nothing short of magical.
Their chemistry was undeniable as they seamlessly crafted a sonic journey that pushed the crowd into a state of pure euphoria.
UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES
It was the perfect climax to an unforgettable night.
As I left the Mega Star Arena, still buzzing from the adrenaline, one thing was clear: Pinkfish Arena Presents Find Your Harmony 2024 was more than just a concert.
It was a testament to the enduring power of trance music — a genre that continues to unite, inspire and transcend borders.
Here's to many more nights of euphoric beats and unforgettable memories.