Apollo @ Alumbra, Melbourne (01/01/08)

The creators of Sunshine People have risen to a new level, bringing us the very first Apollo New Years Day event. I can say as a follower of trance it has been a long time since a single event has delivered such a trance day party in Melbourne. There was absolutely NO house music to be found, and that was exactly what the doctor had ordered.

Alumbra as most of us know is a modern, hip and stylish bar/club with a great feeling of movement due to the open decking at the back, central bar and main dance floor at the front with a very majestic stage. Upstairs was the place to chill for those who had access to VIP. Those in the VIP could observe the movement on the dance floor and take part in the action. The massive fans and the bay breeze coming through made the place cool and relaxed.

A star line-up of DJs including Melbourne’s very own Julian Reynolds who played an amazing set, along with DK Kat, Blinky, Ben Jackson, Ben Evans, LCK, Dr Willis, Trent McDermott and the trance-fabulous Mike Nichol. they all put in their own interpretations of trance, bringing in tunes from the past, future and present including their own original tunes. There were those standing on the floor singing with their arms in the air, while others grinning and cheering in excitement as the tunes played. Mike Nichol raised the bar, cheering at the crowd dancing in front of him, waving and smiling to those that were shouting in appreciation.

Our very first international guest to strut his stuff was the very talented Jonas Stenberg better known to most as Overworld. Jonas take on trance is know for bringing a techier sound with techier beats, while still very uplifting and melodic. Jonas continued his New Years celebrations on the dancefloor, interacting with all who introduced themselves to him and letting everyone know his love for Melbourne and Australia.

Our second international was the ‘Mystery Guest’. There were lots of different rumors floating around on who it would be. There was a stir on the floor with an uproar of delight when he appeared. It was Tanisha, and a set well done. Our third international guest was Fred Baker. Fred filled the dance floor with his masterful style and kept the crowd dancing in delight. He played the classic tune from Paul van Dyk For an Angel, and the crowd raised their arms in the air and the uplifting energy was felt from every corner of the room.

The last DJ to show his presence and get us dancing at the end of Apollo was the none other Giuseppe Ottaviani. Giuseppe as we know has been working alongside with Paul van Dyk at Vandit Records. The talented Giuseppe, who won the ‘Best Live Act Award’ at the 2007 Trance Awards, took us to the end of Apollo in style like a ride to end all rides, slotting in piece by piece and putting it all together, bringing things to a fitting close.

As we left the event we reflected on the day and we were very pleased with ourselves for coming to what could be the best trance party to begin our year as we know it 2008!