Attending Dreamstate SoCal 2023 at the Queen Mary in Long Beach was an ethereal experience, one that will linger in my memory as a magical blend of historical charm and electrifying trance music. The festival, known for its grandeur and its role in defining the trance scene in North America, embarked on a new chapter this year by moving to this iconic venue, which proved to be a masterstroke.
The moment I stepped onto the Queen Mary grounds, I was enveloped in a realm that transcended time. The historic ship, with its majestic presence, added a unique maritime allure to the festival. This smaller, more intimate venue offered a stark contrast to the expansive NOS Events Center, but what it lacked in size, it made up for in ambiance and ease of navigation.
Dreamstate’s production was, as always, a sight to behold. Each of the four stages – The Void, Sequence, Vision, and the mainstage, the Dream – was not just a platform for performances but a gateway to different dimensions of trance. The light shows, the lasers piercing the night sky, and the visuals that seemed to dance in harmony with the music created an immersive experience like no other. The backdrop of the Queen Mary, lit up and majestic, added a fairy-tale-like quality to the whole setting.
The lineup was a diverse tapestry of trance and techno sounds. I was particularly mesmerized by the high-energy set from Sneijder at the Void stage and the techno-infused trance rhythms of Aly & Fila at the Dream. The back-to-back set from John O’Callaghan & Giuseppe Ottaviani was a true highlight, blending techno elements smoothly into their trance repertoire. The second day was just as enchanting, with Cosmic Gate’s euphoric melodies and the Lane 8 & Yotto collaboration, which was a masterclass in melodic techno and progressive house. But it was Armin van Buuren who stole the show, delivering a genre-defying set that encapsulated the essence of trance music in its purest form.
What really struck me throughout the festival was the sense of unity and joy that pervaded the air. People from all walks of life, connected by their love for trance, shared smiles and danced together, creating a community that felt like family. The VIP areas offered a welcomed respite with their additional amenities, and the food, drink, and bathroom facilities were well-organized, ensuring that our physical needs were well taken care of.
Yes, there were a few logistical hiccups, especially during the shuttle departures, but they were minor blips in an otherwise flawless event. As I left the venue, with the sounds of the final set echoing in my mind and the image of the lit-up Queen Mary etched in my heart, I knew that Dreamstate SoCal 2023 had not just been a music festival; it had been a transcendent experience, a journey through the magical world of trance. For trance enthusiasts and first-timers alike, Dreamstate SoCal at the Queen Mary was more than an event; it was a pilgrimage to the heart of trance music.
