Album Review: Maktub by John Gibbons & Scimon Tist
If you’re into trance music with that electronic edge, Maktub by John Gibbons & Scimon Tist is one of those albums that kinda sneaks up on you. Released back in 2010 under the Irish label Club Educate, this project doesn’t just stick to one vibe—it explores different shades of trance while keeping its identity intact. And honestly? It’s got some bangers worth remembering.
The standout track for me has gotta be Maktub (Layman & Rice Remix). This version takes the original and flips it into something hypnotic. The beats are punchy but not overwhelming, and there’s this subtle build-up that keeps you hooked without feeling like it’s trying too hard. What sticks out is how smooth the transitions feel—you don’t even realize you’ve been nodding your head for five minutes straight. It’s the kind of remix that makes you wanna hit repeat, especially if you’re cruising at night or chilling somewhere moody.
Another track I can’t skip over is Maktub (DJ Mog & John Gibbons Remix). This one leans more into the classic trance vibes, with soaring melodies and a driving bassline that feels like it could power an entire festival stage. There’s a moment around the halfway mark where everything drops out except for this ethereal synth line—it’s simple but so effective. You know when a track gives you goosebumps even though it’s just doing its thing? Yeah, that’s this one.
What’s cool about this album is how it balances energy and emotion. Some tracks go all-in on the dancefloor appeal, while others take their time to let the atmosphere breathe. Sure, it might not reinvent the wheel, but sometimes you don’t need that—sometimes you just want solid tunes that do what they say on the tin.
Thinking back, I’m reminded of how underrated Irish producers can be in the global electronic scene. Guys like Gibbons and Tist prove that you don’t need flashy gimmicks to make an impact; just good old-fashioned craftsmanship will do. Plus, isn’t it kinda wild that an album from 2010 still holds up today? Like, we’re talking pre-streaming-era stuff here!
So yeah, give Maktub a spin if you haven’t already. It won’t change your life, but it’ll definitely brighten up your playlist. Oh, and fun fact: “maktub” means “it is written” in Arabic. Deep, right? Maybe deeper than the album itself—but hey, who doesn’t love a bit of mystery mixed with their beats?
