With “Breathing Underwater”, Sarah de Warren and Craig Connelly (under his Circa96 moniker) deliver a track that feels both emotionally raw and euphorically uplifting—exactly the kind of Vocal Trance cut that resonates long after the final breakdown fades out.
From the very first bars, the production sets a deep, atmospheric tone. Circa96 leans into a slightly darker, more driving 140 BPM framework—something fans of Craig Connelly’s recent work will instantly recognize. The groove is tight, the low-end powerful, and the subtle melodic layers build tension without rushing the payoff.
Then comes Sarah de Warren’s vocal—and this is where “Breathing Underwater” truly shines. Known for her emotionally charged songwriting and collaborations across labels like Anjunabeats and Armada, she brings a haunting vulnerability to the track. Her voice floats effortlessly over the instrumental, capturing a sense of inner struggle and resilience that aligns perfectly with the title. As highlighted across her recent social media presence, Sarah continues to position herself as one of the most distinctive voices in modern trance, and this release reinforces that reputation.
Craig Connelly, operating here as Circa96, has been exploring a slightly edgier and more underground-leaning sound palette in his recent productions. While his main alias is often associated with uplifting and melodic festival trance, Circa96 allows him to dive deeper into driving, late-night territory. This duality is clearly reflected in “Breathing Underwater”, where emotional storytelling meets club-focused energy.
The breakdown is a standout moment: stripped-back pads, delicate piano touches, and Sarah’s vocal at the forefront create a spine-tingling pause before the drop hits with full force. When it does, the payoff is pure trance catharsis—uplifting, energetic, and built for big-room moments without sacrificing emotional depth.
⭐️ Rating: 9.5/10
🎧Perfect for:
- Late-night festival sets
- Emotional peak-time moments
- Anyone craving that perfect balance between driving 140 BPM energy and heartfelt vocal storytelling
With “Breathing Underwater”, Sarah de Warren and Circa96 prove that Vocal Trance at 140 BPM is not only alive—but evolving. This is a track that doesn’t just move the dancefloor; it connects.
Artist: Sarah de Warren, Craig Connelly aka CIRCA96
Track: Underwater
Label: Black Hole Recordings
Release Date: April 24th, 2026
Get your copy here: https://blackhole.lnk.to/Underwater
Connect with Sarah de Warren:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahdewarrenmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahdewarren
X: https://www.twitter.com/sarahdewarren
Connect with Craig Connelly:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/craigconnellymusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craig_connelly
X: https://www.twitter.com/craig_connelly
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 Sarah de Warren x Circa96 – Breathing Underwater here:
