ATB – “Future Memories” Review

German DJ Andre Tanneberge, best known as ATB, has managed to make such a huge name of himself, that he is often named one of the best DJ’s in the world. Ever since his first super hit “9PM (Till I come)”, back in the early 2000’s, he’s managed to stay on top and has gained more and more fans.
His unique sound, combining dance, trance and chill-out, became a signature, making sure you will always recognize an ATB track no matter where and when. But, he has also made some original combinations, like the ones on the “Trilogy” album, considered a bit too rock by some of the fans. We can say that each album has brought something new, maintaining his personal signature. His 7th album, “Future Memories” was long awaited by the fans, and represents a return to the origins of ATB and to the instrument that made him famous, the synthesizer.
Nicely organized, “Future Memories” continues with the format he established with 2000’s “Two Worlds”: a double disc release composed of a dance disc and a chill disc. The first is full of beat, and sounds a bit like “No silence”, but is a little more dance than trance. It also offers some hardcore sounds like the ones from the “What about us” track. The second disc is slow and ambiental, containing very relaxing masterpieces such as “Road to Malibu”. A nice surprise is the comeback of Roberta Carter Harrison, among the voices that appear on the album, the two artists having a long history together. ATB also collaborated with other trance darlings for this album, like Betsie Larkin, Tiff Lacey, Aruna, Jan Löchel and Kaskade’s discovery Haley.
Both the technical and the compositional quality of the two discs is outstanding, having a very clear and energizing sound. Soft pianos are contrasting the hard drums and bases, making each track a perfect representation of the ATB gender. It’s hard to say which track is the biggest hit from this album, as it is a very cursive one. Some fans might even complain that it lacks the old days hits, like “Marrakech” from “No silence” or “Long way home” from “Addicted to music”, but this simply proves that every single one of the 14 tracks is worth listening. My personal opinion is that “What About Us,” “Swept Away,” “A New Day,” “Gravity,” and “My Saving Grace” are true gems on the first disc. As for the second one, you will love each and every second of its enchanting sound.
For the consecrated fans of the platinum disc winner DJ, the limited edition of this album offers a DVD with filmed footage from ATB’s tour around the world. As for his concerts, the last ATB concert in Romania was hosted by Kristal Glam Club, in November 2009, so we can expect another one probably soon.