Few artists have shaped the early sound of trance quite like Johan Gielen. With decades of experience behind the decks and in the studio, the Belgian DJ and producer continues to prove that his passion for electronic music is far from fading. His latest release, “Now,” a collaboration with CYB, arrives on Magik Muzik, the iconic label founded by Tiësto, and delivers a powerful, modern interpretation of a classic idea.
Running at 134 BPM, “Now” leans less toward euphoric uplift and more toward a driving, progressive trance sound. Right from the start, a firm kick and pulsating bassline establish a steady groove, gradually layering atmospheric synth textures and rhythmic elements. The track builds patiently, focusing on momentum and tension rather than immediate melodic payoff.
The arrangement feels deliberately club-focused and pumping, with tight percussion and subtle melodic motifs that evolve throughout the track. Instead of a big emotional breakdown, the production keeps the energy flowing with hypnotic synth patterns and a rolling bassline that gives the track a strong late-night character. The result is a sound that sits comfortably between progressive trance and classic Magik Muzik energy — driving, focused, and built for the dancefloor.
An interesting historical note: this version is a modern remake of CYB’s original track “Now” from 1995. By revisiting the concept nearly three decades later, Johan Gielen and CYB bridge different eras of trance. The new interpretation retains the spirit of the original while translating it into a more contemporary, groove-driven production style that fits today’s club sets.
For longtime fans, the collaboration highlights Johan Gielen’s enduring influence on the genre. The Belgian producer rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with projects such as Airscape and Svenson & Gielen, delivering numerous trance classics and becoming a fixture on global stages. Even today, his productions continue to carry the unmistakable sense of rhythm and dancefloor awareness that defined his earlier work.
With “Now”, Gielen and CYB deliver a track that feels both respectful of trance history and relevant for modern DJs — a driving, progressive cut designed to keep the energy locked in during peak-time club moments.
⭐️ Rating: 10 / 10
🎧 Perfect for:
- Late-night club sets
- Progressive trance playlists
- DJs looking for a pumping groove to maintain momentum on the dancefloor
Artist: Johan Gielen, CYB
Track: Now
Label: Magik Muzik
Release Date: March 06th, 2026
Get your copy here: https://magikmuzik.lnk.to/Now
Connect with Johan Gielen:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johangielenmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johangielenmusic/
X: https://www.twitter.com/johan_gielen
Connect with Magik Muzik:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Magik-Muzik/112419362104389
X: https://www.twitter.com/magikmuzik
Connect with Black Hole Recordings:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackholerecordings
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackholerecordings
X: https://www.twitter.com/blackholerec
Take a listen to Johan Gielen x CYB – Now here:
