Paul van Dyk’s VENTURE X: A Genre-Defying Journey and a Triumphant Return to Avalon Hollywood
In a triumphant return to Avalon Hollywood after an 11-year hiatus, electronic music icon Paul van Dyk delivered a captivating performance that left the packed venue in awe. The legendary DJ and electronic music pioneer showcased his new project, VENTURE X, at the historic venue, making for an unforgettable night for trance enthusiasts and electronic music fans alike.
Van Dyk took to the stage for an electrifying four-hour set, blending his timeless trance anthems such as “For An Angel,” “Nothing But You,” and “Eternity,” with remixes of Energy 52’s “Cafe Del Mar” and Cygnus X’s “Superstring.” His performance, which continued until almost dawn, was a mesmerizing journey through his storied career.
Avalon Hollywood, a cornerstone of Los Angeles nightlife and electronic music since its opening in 1927, has hosted countless iconic performances, from The Beatles’ first West Coast appearance to modern-day DJ legends. The venue provided the perfect backdrop for van Dyk’s VENTURE X, a project that redefines the electronic music landscape by blending elements of progressive, trance, and techno into a unique sound experience. The show’s lighting and effects added a new dimension to van Dyk’s already exceptional set.
“VENTURE X allows me to explore the width of what electronic music means to me,” van Dyk says. “It’s about the drive, the push, the pull, and the memories you create.”
Trance music, known for its rhythmic beats, uplifting melodies, and atmospheric elements, has been a staple of Paul van Dyk’s career. Originating in the early 1990s, trance has evolved into a global phenomenon, celebrated for its ability to create euphoric and immersive experiences on the dance floor. Van Dyk’s contemporaries, such as Armin van Buuren, Ferry Corsten, and the early days of Tiësto, contributed to the genre’s rise before it became mainstream.
Van Dyk’s evolution in music reflects his belief that genre names and sounds continually change. “When I started DJing, all electronic music was called techno,” he reflects. “What was called progressive house some 20 years ago would probably be called melodic techno these days.” His goal is to continuously introduce fresh and transformative music to his loyal fans.
Paul van Dyk’s VENTURE X project also features the track “Venture X,” a collaboration with progressive house duo Weekend Heroes and singer/songwriter Christian Schottstaedt. This track embodies a dark, evolving sound that aligns with van Dyk’s vision of pushing musical boundaries. “I like the proggy, deeper stuff, but with a tougher approach as you can hear,” van Dyk notes. “[Making this music] feels very natural and organic.”
Paul van Dyk’s return to Avalon Hollywood was a testament to the enduring power of trance and the artist’s unparalleled skill in delivering an extraordinary live experience. Don’t miss the chance to see his show when it comes to your city—you won’t want to miss it.
Upcoming Tour Dates
*denotes VENTURE X show
August 10 – Insomnia Festival Zurich, Switzerland
August 14 – Bunker Santiago, Chile*
August 16 – Amerika – Buenos Aires, Argentina
August 23 – Omni Taipei, Taiwan
August 24 – Alta Taichung, Taiwan
August 29 – SHINE Ibiza – Ibiza, Spain
September 5 – SHINE Ibiza – Ibiza, Spain
September 15 – EDC China
September 19 – SHINE Ibiza – Ibiza, Spain
September 20 – Lourdes Music Hall Bogota, Colombia*
September 21 – Rodeo City Hall Medellin, Colombia*
September 26 – SHINE Ibiza – Ibiza, Spain
October 5 – Rong – Manchester, UK
October 19 – Melkweg Rabozaal – Amsterdam, Netherlands*
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Written by Eric B Thornton | @ericbthornton
Edited by Bernadette | @berntree