Armin Van Buuren's Best Albums: A Musical Journey

Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving deep into the incredible discography of one of the greatest trance artists of all time: Armin van Buuren. If you're new to the world of trance or a long-time fan, this is your ultimate guide to exploring Armin's best albums. Get ready for a sonic adventure!

A State of Trance: The Foundation of an Empire

Before we jump into his studio albums, let's talk about "A State of Trance" (ASOT). This isn't technically an album, but it's such a monumental part of Armin's career that it deserves a spotlight. "A State of Trance" is a weekly radio show that Armin started in 2001, and it has since become a global phenomenon. Each episode features two hours of the latest and greatest in trance music, carefully curated and mixed by Armin himself. Think of it as a weekly dose of pure trance bliss! The show's influence on the trance scene is undeniable, helping countless artists gain exposure and shaping the sound of the genre. Beyond the radio show, ASOT has evolved into a record label, event series, and a massive community of trance enthusiasts. Attending an A State of Trance event is like stepping into a trance wonderland, with mind-blowing visuals, incredible energy, and of course, Armin himself delivering unforgettable sets. For many fans, ASOT is more than just a radio show; it's a way of life. It’s a community, a shared passion, and a constant source of inspiration. Each year, the anniversary episodes are celebrated with massive parties around the world, bringing together thousands of fans to celebrate their love for trance music. So, while it's not an album you can buy in the traditional sense, "A State of Trance" is an essential part of understanding Armin van Buuren's musical journey and his impact on the world of trance. It is the backbone, the very foundation upon which his musical empire is built, and it continues to be a driving force in the trance scene today. You can tune in every week to experience the magic firsthand and discover new tracks that will become your next obsession.

76 (2003): The Debut that Started It All

76 is Armin van Buuren's debut studio album, released in 2003. This album marked the arrival of a major force in the trance scene. It's a fantastic blend of uplifting melodies, driving beats, and ethereal soundscapes. Tracks like "Yet Another Day" featuring Ray Wilson and "Burned With Desire" featuring Justine Suissa quickly became classics, showcasing Armin's ability to create tracks that are both emotionally resonant and perfect for the dance floor. 76 is a bit more raw and less polished compared to his later works, but that's part of its charm. It captures the energy and excitement of a young artist bursting onto the scene, eager to share his musical vision with the world. The album's title, 76, refers to his year of birth, adding a personal touch to the project. Listening to 76 today is like taking a trip back in time to the early 2000s trance scene, a time when the genre was evolving and finding its identity. It's a reminder of Armin's roots and the foundation upon which he built his career. For those who are new to Armin's music, 76 is a great place to start. It provides a glimpse into his early sound and demonstrates the talent that would eventually make him a global superstar. And for long-time fans, it's a nostalgic journey back to the beginning, a chance to relive the excitement of discovering a new artist who would soon become a legend. So, dive into 76, crank up the volume, and experience the magic of Armin van Buuren's debut album.

Shivers (2005): A Step Forward

Shivers, released in 2005, is Armin van Buuren's second studio album and represents a significant step forward in his musical evolution. This album is characterized by its more polished production, deeper emotional depth, and incorporation of diverse musical elements. Tracks like the title track "Shivers" featuring Susana and "Serenity" featuring Jan Vayne are prime examples of this evolution, showcasing Armin's ability to blend trance with classical and vocal elements to create something truly unique and captivating. "Shivers" is notable for its intricate melodies, lush soundscapes, and Susana's haunting vocals, creating a track that is both uplifting and melancholic. "Serenity", on the other hand, features Jan Vayne's piano skills, adding a classical touch to the trance sound. The album as a whole is more cohesive than his debut, with a clear sense of artistic direction. Armin experimented with different sounds and textures, pushing the boundaries of what trance music could be. Shivers solidified Armin's reputation as a leading figure in the trance scene and demonstrated his potential for even greater success. The album received critical acclaim and helped to expand his fanbase around the world. For fans, Shivers is more than just an album; it's a journey through different emotions and soundscapes. It's a testament to Armin's ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level and create music that resonates long after the last note has faded away. So, if you're looking to explore the depth and artistry of Armin van Buuren's music, Shivers is an excellent place to start. It's a classic album that continues to inspire and captivate trance fans around the world.

Imagine (2008): Reaching New Heights

In 2008, Armin van Buuren released Imagine, his third studio album, and it's safe to say that he reached new heights with this one. Imagine is a truly ambitious album that showcases Armin's growth as a producer and his willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles. The album features collaborations with a wide range of artists, including Jacqueline Govaert, Sharon den Adel of Within Temptation, and DJ Shah, resulting in a diverse and captivating listening experience. Tracks like "In and Out of Love" featuring Sharon den Adel became massive hits, propelling Armin to even greater fame and solidifying his status as a global superstar. "In and Out of Love" is a perfect blend of trance and rock elements, with Sharon's powerful vocals adding a unique dimension to the track. Other highlights from the album include "Going Wrong" with DJ Shah and Chris Jones, a high-energy track that is perfect for the dance floor, and the title track "Imagine", an instrumental piece that showcases Armin's melodic sensibilities. Imagine is a masterpiece of trance music, demonstrating Armin's ability to create tracks that are both uplifting and emotionally resonant. The album's production is top-notch, with every sound and texture perfectly placed to create a lush and immersive soundscape. For many fans, Imagine is Armin's best album, a testament to his artistic vision and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. The album received critical acclaim and helped to further expand his fanbase around the world. If you're looking to experience the pinnacle of Armin van Buuren's musical career, Imagine is an essential listen. It's an album that will take you on a journey through different emotions and soundscapes, leaving you feeling inspired and uplifted.

Mirage (2010): A Sonic Tapestry

Mirage, released in 2010, is Armin van Buuren's fourth studio album, and it's a sonic tapestry woven with intricate melodies, driving beats, and captivating vocals. This album sees Armin further exploring different sounds and styles, incorporating elements of progressive house, classical music, and even rock into his signature trance sound. Mirage is a diverse and eclectic album that showcases Armin's versatility as a producer and his willingness to experiment with new ideas. The album features collaborations with a wide range of artists, including Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Christian Burns, and Nadia Ali, each bringing their unique talents to the project. Tracks like "Not Giving Up on Love" featuring Sophie Ellis-Bextor and "Feels So Good" featuring Nadia Ali became instant classics, demonstrating Armin's ability to create tracks that are both commercially successful and artistically fulfilling. "Not Giving Up on Love" is a perfect blend of trance and pop elements, with Sophie's silky vocals adding a touch of sophistication to the track. "Feels So Good", on the other hand, is a high-energy anthem that is guaranteed to get you moving. Other highlights from the album include "Youtopia" featuring Adam Young of Owl City, a dreamy and atmospheric track that showcases Armin's ability to create lush soundscapes, and the title track "Mirage", an instrumental piece that is both epic and uplifting. Mirage is a testament to Armin's creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of trance music. The album received critical acclaim and helped to solidify his status as one of the most influential artists in the genre. For fans, Mirage is a journey through different emotions and soundscapes, a testament to Armin's ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. If you're looking to explore the diversity and artistry of Armin van Buuren's music, Mirage is an essential listen. It's an album that will surprise and delight you with its inventive sounds and captivating melodies.

Intense (2013): Pushing the Boundaries Further

Intense, released in 2013, is Armin van Buuren's fifth studio album, and as the name suggests, it's an intense and immersive listening experience. This album sees Armin pushing the boundaries of his sound even further, incorporating elements of dubstep, hardstyle, and orchestral music into his signature trance style. Intense is a bold and ambitious album that showcases Armin's willingness to take risks and experiment with new ideas. The album features collaborations with a diverse range of artists, including Miri Ben-Ari, Laura Jansen, and Fiora, each adding their unique talents to the project. Tracks like "This Is What It Feels Like" featuring Trevor Guthrie became a massive global hit, winning numerous awards and introducing Armin's music to a wider audience. "This Is What It Feels Like" is a perfect example of Armin's ability to blend trance with pop elements, creating a track that is both commercially successful and artistically fulfilling. Other highlights from the album include "Beautiful Life" featuring Cindy Alma, a uplifting and anthemic track that is sure to get you singing along, and "Who's Afraid of 138?!", a high-energy and intense track that showcases Armin's love for harder styles of trance. Intense is a testament to Armin's creativity and his ability to stay ahead of the curve. The album received critical acclaim and helped to further solidify his status as one of the most innovative artists in the electronic music scene. For fans, Intense is a journey through different emotions and soundscapes, a testament to Armin's ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. If you're looking to experience the intensity and innovation of Armin van Buuren's music, Intense is an essential listen. It's an album that will challenge your expectations and leave you feeling exhilarated.

Embrace (2015): A Fusion of Genres

Embrace, released in 2015, is Armin van Buuren's sixth studio album, and it's a fusion of genres that showcases his versatility and open-mindedness as a producer. This album sees Armin exploring a wide range of musical styles, from jazz to rock to drum and bass, all while staying true to his trance roots. Embrace is a diverse and eclectic album that demonstrates Armin's willingness to experiment with new sounds and ideas. The album features collaborations with a diverse range of artists, including Mr. Probz, Kensington, and Eric Vloeimans, each adding their unique talents to the project. Tracks like "Another You" featuring Mr. Probz became a massive hit, showcasing Armin's ability to blend trance with other genres to create something truly unique and captivating. "Another You" is a perfect example of Armin's ability to blend trance with pop elements, creating a track that is both commercially successful and artistically fulfilling. Other highlights from the album include "Embrace" featuring Eric Vloeimans, a beautiful and atmospheric track that showcases Armin's ability to create lush soundscapes, and "Freefall" featuring BullySongs, a high-energy and uplifting track that is sure to get you moving. Embrace is a testament to Armin's creativity and his ability to push the boundaries of electronic music. The album received critical acclaim and helped to further solidify his status as one of the most respected artists in the industry. For fans, Embrace is a journey through different emotions and soundscapes, a testament to Armin's ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. If you're looking to experience the diversity and innovation of Armin van Buuren's music, Embrace is an essential listen. It's an album that will surprise and delight you with its inventive sounds and captivating melodies.

Balance (2019): Finding Equilibrium

Balance, released in 2019, is Armin van Buuren's seventh studio album, and it represents a quest for equilibrium in sound and style. This album sees Armin blending his classic trance sound with elements of pop, house, and even a touch of drum and bass, creating a diverse and dynamic listening experience. Balance is an exploration of contrasts, a search for harmony between different genres and influences. The album features collaborations with a wide array of artists, including Above & Beyond, HALIENE, and Sam Martin, each bringing their unique perspective to the project. Tracks like "Show Me Love" with Above & Beyond became instant favorites, showcasing the seamless blend of Armin's trance sensibilities with Above & Beyond's signature progressive sound. "Show Me Love" is a perfect example of how Armin can collaborate with other artists while still maintaining his own distinct style. Other highlights from the album include "Song I Sing" featuring HALIENE, a beautiful and emotional track that showcases Armin's ability to create deeply resonant music, and "Unlove You" featuring Ne-Yo, a catchy and upbeat track that demonstrates his knack for crafting memorable melodies. Balance is a reflection of Armin's artistic journey, a testament to his ability to evolve and adapt while staying true to his roots. The album received positive reviews and resonated with fans who appreciated its eclectic mix of sounds and its heartfelt emotion. For listeners, Balance is an invitation to explore the different facets of Armin's musical personality, a reminder that music is about finding harmony and connection. If you're looking for an album that showcases Armin's range and versatility, Balance is a must-listen.

So there you have it, guys! A journey through Armin van Buuren's amazing albums. Each album is a unique chapter in his career, showcasing his evolution as an artist and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of trance music. Happy listening!