Spheric by Deevo: A Time Capsule of Progressive Trance Bliss (1996)
Alright, buckle up because we’re diving into Spheric, the 1996 gem from Italian producer Deevo that’s been floating around my brain like a forgotten email you suddenly remember is super important. Released on Loi Records and with some help from Flexter on production duties, this album feels like a snapshot of progressive trance at its peak—raw, hypnotic, and just a little bit cheesy in the best way possible.
Let’s talk tracks. The standout for me has to be “Spheric (Progressive Mix)”. It’s got that slow-burn build-up that makes you feel like you’re climbing a neon staircase in an ‘80s sci-fi movie. You know the kind—where every step hums with energy, but you don’t quite know what’s waiting for you at the top? That’s this track. By the time it drops, you’re fully submerged in its pulsating beats and swirling synths. And yeah, sure, maybe the melody loops a few too many times, but isn’t that part of the charm? This one sticks with me because it’s not trying too hard—it’s just doing its thing, and somehow, it works.
Then there’s “Spheric (In Dream)”, which honestly sounds like someone bottled up a lucid dream and poured it straight onto wax. The vibe here is softer, more introspective, as if the song itself is whispering secrets only you can hear. I remember spinning this late at night once, headphones on, staring out the window like some moody protagonist in a coming-of-age flick. JK Lloyd’s presentation likely added to the magic; whoever he is, dude knew how to sell a vibe.
Now, let’s not kid ourselves—this isn’t perfect. Some might call it dated, and yeah, compared to today’s tech-heavy bangers, it’s definitely lo-fi. But isn’t that why we love albums like Spheric? They remind us of a time when electronic music felt less polished and more... human? Messy even? Like, imagine making this stuff without Ableton or Serum—just grit, determination, and whatever gear they could scrape together in ‘90s Italy. Respect.
So, what’s the takeaway here? If you’re into progressive trance—or just nostalgic for the days when raves were underground and glow sticks weren’t ironic accessories—give Spheric a spin. Sure, it’s not gonna change your life, but it’ll probably make you smile. Or at least nod your head while pretending you have everything under control.
And hey, fun fact: listening to this album now kinda feels like finding a mixtape in your attic. Except instead of wondering who made it, you’re left wondering how something so simple managed to sound so big. Who knew Italians could do trance this well? Not me, apparently. Catch you on the flip side.
