Rating: 5.0/5. From 1 vote.
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If there’s a better way to put 2025 on notice, we haven’t found it yet. “The Party” is Ciaran McAuley’s first release of the year, and it is already setting a high bar for emotional, vocal-driven trance. McAuley, known for his mastery in blending evocative melodies with powerhouse vocals, teams up with Shelby Merry, a Nashville-based singer-songwriter with a background in country, folk, and blues. Together, they deliver a track that’s as introspective as uplifting, reminding us why trance remains a genre with unmatched emotional depth.

Ciaran McAuley has been riding a wave of critical and fan acclaim, with 2024 highlights like “Love Heals” and his Techno Club mix compilation solidifying his status as one of the most emotive producers in the trance scene. Hailing from Ireland, McAuley’s signature style is rooted in melody and storytelling, often pairing his productions with the voices of vocalists like Audrey Gallagher and Christina Novelli. His knack for crafting tracks that resonate deeply on dance floors and headphones is on full display in “The Party.”

Conversely, Shelby Merry brings her soulful, confessional songwriting into the electronic realm with effortless grace. Having crossed over from her Americana roots, Merry gained recognition in the trance community through her work on John Askew’s 2024 album. Her lyrics are unapologetically raw and personal, often toeing the line between heartbreak and empowerment. In “The Party,” Merry delivers lines that stick with you long after the final note fades.

The title “The Party” might evoke images of euphoria and celebration, but Merry’s lyrics subvert expectations, painting a picture of vulnerability and introspection. Lines like “I hope you’ll find a girl that doesn’t look like me” and “broken crystal” hint at a love story marred by pain, rejection, and introspection. Merry’s delivery is haunting, almost autobiographical, adding depth to a genre often associated with escapism.

McAuley’s production complements Merry’s vocals with precision. The intro builds with a subtle yet emotional progression, creating an atmosphere of suspense. As Merry’s lyrics take center stage, the production dials back, allowing her voice to shine. Then, the drop hits—a soaring, synth-laden burst of energy that balances the track’s introspective tone with dance floor-ready intensity. The result is a beautifully balanced piece of trance that’s equally suited for peak-hour sets and solo listening sessions.


⭐️ Rating: 9.5/10

🎧 Perfect For:

  • Late-night drives when introspection takes over.
  • Mainstage moments where emotions run high.
  • Post-party reflections as the night winds down.

Ciaran McAuley and Shelby Merry have created a track that’s as moving as it is mesmerizing. “The Party” is a masterclass in vocal trance, combining heartfelt lyricism with top-tier production. While some might long for an extended mix to delve deeper into its melodies, the track’s emotional punch is undeniable.

With “The Party,” Ciaran McAuley and Shelby Merry have delivered a track that leaves an indelible mark—one that lingers in your mind and heart. If this is how 2025 starts, we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds for trance.


Artist: Ciaran McAuley, Shelby Merry
Track: The Party
Label: Black Hole Recordings
Release Date: January 27th 2025
Get your copy here: https://blackhole.lnk.to/TheParty
 
Connect with Ciaran McAuley:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ciaranmcauleyofficial
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/djciaranmcauley

Connect with Shelby Merry:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShelbyMerryBand
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/shelbymerry

Connect with Black Hole Recordings:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackholerecordings
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/blackholerec
 
Take a listen to Ciaran McAuley & Shelby Merry – The Party here: