Arizona (2) Vs. Passiva – Halo

Of the bat, it should be noted that the original Arizona vs. Passiva is the more melodic version. The bassline is more lukewarm and the main lead melody is spelled out in a majestic, larger-than-life fashion and it is sure to be loved infectiously. This version wins as having the more directly euphoric appeal, and it is my personal favorite. In addition, this one has several uplifting yet creepily mysterious undertones, generated by a healthy array of exotic percussion, captivating sweeps, and one particular melody beginning at 1:46 which seems to whisper to you more than force you into listening. It's so gentle, but very effective!! So, the original Halo is bookended thusly: the first half sneakingly and patiently brings you into a lull, merely to warm you up to the more obvious energetic tones later on.

On the other hand, the Danjo & Styles remix obliterates the main melody by burying it beneath several thick layers of heavy bass and raspy supersaws. The melody can be clearly heard for only a superficial amount of time, I guess to keep the listener on the edge and "wanting more." Some of the more soft-sounding melodic features are more nuanced and are amplified by standing out so lonesomely versus an otherwise harder sounding, club thumping rendition. It's a very nice contrast, actually, to have this deep bass pinned against the instruments playing higher notes. This version also seems to have received considerably more exposure than the original.

I'll take either version in a club, yet the original is the better of the two for home listening, whereas the Danjo & Styles mix successfully appeals to club goers. Halo should be viewed as an essential for any trance aficionado. A grand release on Decidated.