Rhythms of Revolution: The Legacy of ‘Access’ in Armada Music's 20th Anniversary Documentary
Armada Music, an influential force in the world of dance music, celebrated its 20th anniversary with the launch of a documentary series titled ‘Armada Music 20 Years Classics’. This series, a deep dive into the history of dance music, pays tribute to its early beginnings and seminal hits, spotlighting the artists who shaped the genre. It aims to educate a new generation about the roots of house music while giving lifelong fans a glimpse into the inspiration behind some of the genre's most impactful tracks.
As the biggest independent dance music label in the world, founded by Armin van Buuren, Maykel Piron, and David Lewis, Armada Music has been a pivotal platform in the evolution of the dance music scene. The label manages an extensive catalog of over 40,000 tracks and has been instrumental in nurturing and amplifying global artists. The label's mission, as articulated by CEO Maykel Piron, is to create excitement around and passion for dance music. This mission has remained steadfast since the label's inception in 2003.
The documentary series, part of the label's year-long 20th-anniversary celebrations, consists of five episodes, each delving into a different aspect of dance music's rich history. The first episode features a behind-the-scenes look at Joe Smooth’s ‘Promised Land’, a seminal house classic, and includes interviews with Joe Smooth and influential figures like BBC Radio 1 DJs Pete Tong and Judge Jules. This episode sets the tone for the series by exploring the inclusive ethos of the house music scene and its enduring impact.
The final episode of the series brings into focus DJ Misjah & DJ Tim’s ‘Access’, a track that epitomizes the 90s rave culture. Released in 1995, ‘Access’ is not just a song; it's a historical marker of an era defined by its pulsating beats and the distinctive "squelching" sound of the Roland TB-303. It became a rhythmic anthem that captured the essence of the 90s techno scene, carving out a niche that remains influential to this day.
This episode explores the origin and recent resurgence of ‘Access’, taking viewers on a journey through the song's creation and its impact on the dance music landscape. DJ Misjah and DJ Tim delve into how they crafted the original record and the crucial role of the Roland TB-303. The episode also highlights how Joris Voorn’s modern reinterpretation introduced ‘Access’ to a new generation, rejuvenating its status and influencing rising stars like KI/KI.
Armada Music's 20th Anniversary Documentary Series is not just a celebration of two decades of musical innovation; it's a chronicle of the evolution of dance music and an homage to the tracks and artists that have defined this genre. The series encapsulates the spirit of dance music, from its early beginnings to its current global resonance, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
The Genesis of ‘Access’
Background of DJ Misjah and DJ Tim
Mischa van der Heiden, known by his stage name DJ Misjah, is a Dutch DJ, music producer, composer, record label and booking agency owner, and mastering engineer. Born on September 1, 1971, in Rotterdam, Netherlands, he has been active in the music industry since 1989. DJ Misjah's significant contribution to the dance music scene includes the production of "Access" in 1995, a track that reached #16 in the UK Singles Chart in March 1996 and reappeared in a remix version in May 2000, peaking at #45. He has also worked on remixes for various artists like Josh Wink, Jam & Spoon, and others.
DJ Tim, on the other hand, is a Russian musician born in 1994 who has dedicated most of his life to music. He writes electronic music in the style of melodic house and techno. His music is characterized by a blend of grandiosity and a futuristic outlook, often recommended to be experienced with headphones and closed eyes for a fully immersive experience.
The Making of ‘Access’
‘Access’ was released in 1995 and composed by DJ Misjah and DJ Tim. The track is renowned for its impact on the techno and rave scenes of the 1990s. It gained popularity due to its unique sound and high-energy beat, which resonated with the rave culture of the time. Its revival through Joris Voorn's remix in recent years has reintroduced the track to a new generation, highlighting its timeless appeal.
The Role of the Roland TB-303
The Roland TB-303 played a crucial role in the creation of ‘Access’. This iconic bass synthesizer, commonly used in the production of acid house music, is known for its distinctive "squelching" sound. It was instrumental in crafting the unique sound of ‘Access’, contributing to the track's pulsating beat and rhythmic sense of urgency. This sound became synonymous with the 90s techno scene and has been a significant influence on the genre's evolution. The use of the Roland TB-303 in ‘Access’ exemplifies the innovative approach of DJ Misjah and DJ Tim in blending technology and musical artistry to create a track that has stood the test of time.
The genesis of ‘Access’ lies in the unique collaboration between DJ Misjah and DJ Tim, their innovative use of the Roland TB-303, and their ability to capture the essence of the 90s rave culture. This track not only made a significant impact upon its release but continues to influence modern electronic music and inspire new generations of artists and fans.
Impact on the 90s Rave and Techno Scene
'Access' in the Context of the 90s Rave SceneIn the 90s, the rave scene was characterized by its high-energy, pulsating beats, and 'Access' by DJ Misjah and DJ Tim encapsulated this essence perfectly. The track, with its rhythmic sense of urgency and iconic "squelching" synth sounds, became a staple in rave culture. It embodied the revival of acid techno, a genre defined by its raw energy and hypnotic rhythms, primarily driven by the use of the Roland TB303 "acid box." 'Access' resonated deeply with the rave audience of the time, capturing the unbridled spirit of the era.
Influence on Contemporary Artists and Tracks of the Time'Access' influenced numerous contemporary artists and tracks during the 90s. Its distinctive style, characterized by hard-hitting beats and a relentless tempo, set a new standard in the techno and rave genres. The track inspired a wave of producers to experiment with similar sounds and techniques, contributing to the evolution of the acid techno genre. This influence is evident in the works of various artists who adopted the track's energetic style and acid-infused soundscapes in their productions.
Reception by the Audience and Critics during the 90sThe reception of 'Access' in the 90s was overwhelmingly positive. It reached #16 in the UK Singles Chart in March 1996, marking its commercial success and widespread appeal. The track's ability to energize and captivate crowds made it a favorite in clubs and raves across the globe. Critics and audiences alike praised its innovative use of the Roland TB303 and its contribution to shaping the sound of 90s techno.
Joris Voorn’s Reimagination
Background on Joris VoornJoris Voorn is a renowned figure in the dance music scene, known for his contributions to underground house and techno. His work is marked by a blend of melodic and progressive elements, and he has a reputation for reimagining classic tracks with a contemporary twist.
Analysis of His Remix of ‘Access’Joris Voorn's remix of ‘Access’ is a modern interpretation that maintains the essence of the original track while infusing it with his unique style. He preserved the iconic 303 magic but added a distinct 2023 take, making it more compatible with contemporary techno sets. His version is characterized by a hypnotic sound and a modern approach to production, appealing to both fans of the original and new listeners.
Reception of the Remix in Contemporary TimesThe remix has been celebrated in contemporary times, featured in epic sets at major festivals like Tomorrowland Winter, Awakenings, Ultra Miami, and more. Voorn's rendition of 'Access' has been acclaimed for its ability to bring the spirit of 90s raving to modern dance floors, securing his place among the techno greats. The track's reception reflects the enduring legacy of 'Access' and its continued relevance in the electronic music scene.
The Resurgence of ‘Access’
How the Track Regained Popularity in Recent Years‘Access’ regained popularity in recent years, partly due to Voorn's remix. Its resurgence is a testament to its timeless quality and enduring appeal. The revival highlights the cyclical nature of music trends, where classic tracks often find new life in contemporary contexts.
Influence of Modern Technology and Social Media in Its ResurgenceModern technology and social media have played a significant role in the resurgence of ‘Access’. Platforms like YouTube and streaming services have made it easier for new audiences to discover classic tracks. Social media has facilitated the sharing of music and enabled the track to reach a global audience, contributing to its renewed popularity.
The Role of Younger Artists Like KI/KI in Reviving Classic Tracks
Artists like KI/KI have been instrumental in reviving classic tracks like 'Access'. By incorporating such classics into their sets and playlists, these artists introduce these timeless pieces to a new generation of listeners. Their appreciation and reinterpretation of these tracks help bridge the gap between the original rave culture of the 90s and today's electronic music scene. This blend of old and new influences continues to enrich the genre, ensuring that classic tracks like 'Access' remain relevant and celebrated.
The impact of 'Access' on the 90s rave and techno scene was profound, influencing contemporary artists and resonating with audiences and critics. Joris Voorn's modern reimagination of the track has introduced it to a new generation, while modern technology and artists like KI/KI have played a significant role in its resurgence, highlighting the track's enduring appeal and influence in the world of electronic music.
