Sink into the Satisfying Atmospheres of Forerunners' 'Pure Progressive 2'

**From the heat of Arizona comes Forerunners’ Pure Progressive 2, an excursion into the cooling touch of progressive music.**

The progressive sensibilities of the Pure Trance family remind us that atmosphere remains king. Two years ago, the Pure Progressive label tapped resident Orkidea to launch the namesake compilation. Now, two years forward, the Solarstone Music collective taps the talents of Arizona-based Brenden LaBonte aka Forerunners for the second installment. He is no stranger to the fans of Solarstone’s labels over the years as his “Lifecycle” was released on their DeepBlue Records back in 2007. That sonic journey established the foundations for Forerunners – whether it was the way his tapestries unfold or the style and grooves he expresses.

Fast forward to 2022 and Forerunners smacks us with two unique affairs on Pure Progressive Vol. 2. The first is a brand new “album” of sorts; as the first disc of the compilation focuses on his own work. The second disc offers a blend of the artist’s motifs and flair as a DJ, and establishes the soundscape he describes as “more freedom to wander around.” Both represent the sonic weave of progressive moods that define the genre’s experience.

As shown in Mix 1, Forerunners definitely has standout productions, proving that he is a veteran of the trance and progressive market. Representing himself as a whole artist, this mix feature both original pieces and two brand new remixes by the curator. “Hazel Eyes” elevates with the smooth airy pads and groove laden percussion that accent the stab-driven melody. “Flood of Memories” brings the darker tones of Forerunners’ past works to the present – brooding bass and tribal percussion bits meet hypnotic synth choices.

For this listener though, the new remixes of Nugen’s “Deliverance” and Basil O’Glue’s “The Promise” shine brightest. Here, Forerunners plants a firm grasp on the wheel as he guides us across the sonic landscape. “Deliverence” is a tune and a half on its own and sure to be a favorite of Pure Trance fans around the world, while “Promise” is simultaneously intense and relaxing. Both will be easy fits into any record bag exploring the deeper moods of trance and progressive house.

Diving into Mix 2 though shows the diverse background that Forerunners plays with. Beyond opening with a track well over ten minutes long, the experience also captures the beauty of the mind’s eye. Tracks like Waxman CA’s “Never the Same” breathe effortlessly to trap the listener with its soft female vocal elements and wooing piano keys. Partenaire’s “Garden of Genesis” meanwhile, shows exactly why the opening hours at the club or the ascent into the sunrise can feel so good. Finally qoob’s “The Four Stages of Man” reminds us that acid synths and progressive moods are a perfect pairing to take us deeper into the darker vibes, while ManIsMetaphor’s “Escape” accelerates us upwards into the night’s grasp.

If you are looking to chill out with a moody affair as we bake in the summertime heat, look no further than Pure Progressive Vol. 2. Exuding a wondrous affair, this belongs both on the shelf and in your digital repository.

Want to grab your own copy? Add Pure Progressive Vol. 2 to your library today!