The Dawn of a New Chapter: Markus Schulz Unveils ‘In Search Of Sunrise 22’
The legendary *In Search Of Sunrise* (ISOS) franchise has officially entered its 22nd year, with Markus Schulz dropping the first volume of this year’s trilogy, titled *The Awakening*. This latest collection serves as a masterclass in melodic and progressive soundscapes, reinforcing the series’ status as a cornerstone of electronic dance music culture.
### A Curated Sonic Journey
Rather than acting as a mere curator, Schulz has fully embraced his role as an architect of sound. By taking the helm of the creative direction, he ensures that each volume functions as a cohesive narrative rather than a disjointed playlist. *The Awakening* showcases a diverse array of talent, blending heavy hitters like Above & Beyond, Paul Oakenfold, and Joris Voorn with the ethereal textures of Solarstone and the vocal prowess of JES x Alex M.O.R.P.H.
Furthermore, the compilation highlights Schulz’s own versatility, featuring fresh productions under his experimental Dakota and Aeridan monikers. This blend of industry titans and personal projects creates a balanced listening experience that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
### Evolution of a Trance Institution
For over two decades, *In Search Of Sunrise* has transcended its origins as a standard trance mix series. It has matured into a seasonal tradition, acting as a sonic barometer for the progressive house and trance scenes. Much like the changing of the seasons, the series has adapted to the shifting tides of electronic music, maintaining its relevance by prioritizing atmosphere and emotional resonance over fleeting trends.
Reflecting on the creative process, Schulz noted that the beauty of the series lies in its fluidity. “One of the greatest privileges of guiding ‘In Search Of Sunrise’ is that each year brings another opportunity to tell a fresh musical story – and a complete one,” Schulz explained. “The destination is always ‘Sunrise,’ but the road that leads there is never the same. Allowing it to develop naturally is what’s kept the series thriving over its longer course.”
### A Summer-Long Experience
In a strategic move to keep the momentum building throughout the warmer months, Schulz has opted for a staggered release schedule. For the second consecutive year, the ISOS experience is being delivered in three distinct installments. This episodic approach allows listeners to digest the music in chapters, mirroring the way a DJ might build a set from sunset to sunrise.
As the electronic music landscape continues to grow-with global festival attendance reaching record highs and streaming platforms reporting a 20% year-over-year increase in melodic techno and trance consumption-*In Search Of Sunrise 22* arrives at the perfect moment to soundtrack the summer.
