IOA's Dance All Night EP Redefining Techno and Earning Artist of the Year Honors

Techno music often thrives on energy and rhythm, but IOA takes it a step further by weaving cinematic storytelling into his tracks. His latest EP, Dance All Night, showcases this unique approach, blending groove, emotion, and innovation into a seamless experience. Known for hits like Escape From Reality, Free Your Mind, and After Party Baddies, IOA continues to push boundaries in 2025, proving that techno can be both dancefloor-ready and deeply immersive.

IOA

The Art of Storytelling in Techno

IOA’s music feels like a film unfolding. Each track has a clear beginning, middle, and end, creating a journey rather than just a repetitive beat. This narrative style sets him apart in the techno scene, where many tracks rely heavily on loops and repetition. Instead, IOA crafts moments that evoke thought and feeling, using cinematic breaks and carefully layered sounds to engage listeners on multiple levels.

For example, his track Dance All Night starts with a balanced groove and kick drum that immediately invites movement. This intro is not random; it’s a deliberate tease that sets the tone and builds anticipation. The importance of a strong intro cannot be overstated—it’s the moment when listeners decide if they want to stay. IOA understands this and uses tension and release expertly to keep the energy flowing.

Dance All Night: A Masterclass in Production

The A-side track Dance All Night is a perfect example of IOA’s production skills. The groove is clear and inviting, with a kick drum that drives the rhythm without overpowering the other elements. Layered acid leads add texture and excitement, while minor stabs provide subtle accents that prevent the track from feeling cluttered.

The break section introduces a lush pad that triggers emotional responses, transporting listeners into a trance-like state. This moment of calm contrasts beautifully with the high-energy sections, demonstrating IOA’s ability to balance intensity and atmosphere. The acid lead automation ramps up the energy again, pulling the track to a powerful climax without ever repeating itself through the use of automation.

This careful attention to detail shows IOA’s commitment to creating music that lasts. He’s not just making tracks to fill playlists; he’s building a legacy that will stand the test of time.

The B-Side Shift: Sound the Alarm

The B-side of the EP, Sound the Alarm, takes a different approach. It leans into a more cinematic acid sound, with acid leads that are more subtle and vocals that take center stage. The pads shine through, creating a hypnotic and moody atmosphere that showcases another side of IOA’s artistry.

This track highlights how IOA can switch moods while maintaining his signature style. It’s a reminder that techno can be both energetic and introspective, and that mood plays a crucial role in underground music. Sound the Alarm invites listeners to dive deeper into the emotional spectrum of techno, proving that the genre is far from one-dimensional.

Why Dance All Night Matters

Dance All Night is more than just an EP; it’s a statement. It shows that techno can be both danceable and emotionally rich. IOA’s use of cinematic elements, thoughtful production, and dynamic energy creates a listening experience that stands out in a crowded field.

For fans of techno looking for music that challenges and excites, this EP offers a perfect balance. It’s a reminder that great music tells a story and that every element, from the intro to the final beat, matters.

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IOA’s Place in the Techno Landscape

IOA’s dedication to keeping his sound underground and focusing on the music itself has earned him a spot among the most promising artists of the year. His mentality centers on music as the heart of the underground experience, a philosophy that resonates with fans and peers alike.

IOA’s work goes beyond releasing tracks; he is building a legacy. His focus on underground sound and music-first mentality places him on a path alongside techno legends like Carl Cox and Charlotte de Witte. He is a legend in the making. His work is not just about making hits; it’s about shaping the future of techno and inspiring the next generation of producers and DJs. That's why IOA is our Artist of the Year! We had the exciting opportunity to catch up with this incredible artist from Spain for a special interview, and this is what he had to say.

Treavor:

We're thrilled you took the time to chat with us! Your incredible year deserves a massive congratulations! This exciting interview is proudly brought to you by Beatport, the ultimate platform for DJs and fans alike! Tell me all about the electronic scene where you live! If I'm not mistaken, it's Valencia, right?

IOA:

I live in Alicante, and it's just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Valencia, so I totally get the mix-up, haha! The electronic music scene here in Alicante is absolutely buzzing, especially for a place that's not massive. You can dive into all sorts of events, from the chillest house vibes to the most electrifying hardcore beats, with every flavor of techno in between. And the venues? They're fantastic, ranging from cool clubs to stunning spots right by the sea, making it feel like a never-ending summer party!

Treavor:

You recently performed at ADE week! Tell me all a how did you geared up for

Such a massive event?

IOA:

The week of ADE was an absolutely incredible and inspiring experience! I lost count of how many amazing people I met and how many fascinating conversations I had during those days—from Hardwell to Armin Van Buuren—all thanks to Marie Vaunt. I couldn't have dreamed of a week like that. I came back bursting with excitement to lock myself away in the studio!

Preparing for Kurai’s boat party at ADE took me several weeks, and I was thrilled to do it. I wanted to show up with a ton of new original music and create a set entirely of my own. So, I dove into production first, and then, based on what I had, I crafted a coherent and exciting set.

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Treavor:

Who are the people who inspired you musically? When did you realize music was your passion? How did you first get into music? And specifically, Electronic music?

IOA:

I've always drawn musical inspiration from genres rather than specific artists. Euphoric hardstyle has been a constant in my life, possibly due to its high energy, which perfectly complements my time at the gym. Dark techno also resonates deeply with me, thanks to its captivating atmosphere. Both genres have undeniably shaped my songwriting style. If I were to highlight an artist, Afrojack was a significant influence in my early days. He masterfully adapts to trends while remaining true to his unique sound, elevating it to the highest level. My passion for this music was cemented when I realized how quickly it could uplift my mood and bring happiness. My goal is to share that same uplifting experience with others.

My uncle, a lifelong DJ in Alicante, surrounded me with music and equipment like record players and CD players. Spending afternoons with him and my father, experimenting with these tools, made it clear that music was my destiny.

Treavor:

Your sound is incredibly polished! How did you achieve that? Tell us all about your unique sound!

IOA:

With every song I create, I strive to make you feel like the star of your own movie! My goal is to fill each track with euphoria and motivation, building up to an incredibly energetic climax. I want to touch your deepest self during the break, leading you to the most epic drop imaginable, where you truly feel like the hero of your story!

Treavor:

Let’s dive into Production! Bring Me Back is a track that truly shines. It’s incredibly well-balanced and is definitely one of my top tracks of 2025. How did the production process unfold, and where did the inspiration come from? You’ve masterfully blended Techno and Drum & Bass with stunning melodies. It’s a remarkable achievement that also showcases the technical brilliance of music production.

IOA:

The idea struck me in December while I was at the gym, and I was so excited that I literally ran back to my studio humming it all the way to make sure I wouldn't forget it, haha!

I kicked things off with the break, the most emotional and melodic part, and instantly realized I needed much more speed to tell the story I envisioned, but I was stumped on how to develop it further. One afternoon, with the idea already penned down, I was checking out data on Spotify for Artists, and noticed that the US was the second country where my music was most popular. I knew Drum & Bass was huge there, and remembered it was around 174 bpm, so I decided to give it a whirl, and well, the rest is history!

The fusion of Techno with Drum & Bass came about because I wanted to shake things up and give people a breather, like a reset for the dance floor's energy. The track kicks off with a rather dark Acid Techno, transitions into a super euphoric Drum & Bass phase, and then dips back into an even darker Acid Techno, but with a burst of renewed energy.

I thought the toughest part would be finding a home for Bring Me Back, but I showed it to

Marie first, as always, and she didn’t hesitate for a second to keep it for Kurai Records. I vividly remember finishing it in a hurry so she could play it in her sets, and she did so for several months!

Treavor:

The All Mine EP is an absolute masterpiece! I'm a huge fan of trance, and you're bringing something fresh and exciting to the scene! You're keeping the track pure tech trance, which I absolutely adore. What inspired you to create a tech-trance track?

IOA:

All Mine is the highest BPM track I've released so far (excluding the drum & bass section of (Bring Me Back). I aimed to create a track that's incredibly club-friendly and versatile, whether you're headlining, warming up, or even DJing the after-party. It's the most “fun” track I've crafted, merging rave stab sounds with acid and my signature cinematic breaks. Fitting all that into less than three minutes was a thrilling challenge.

Overdrive is a true “club weapon,” delivering darker, more powerful drops while featuring a bridge and break with a trance-like atmosphere. It's designed to captivate with its hard drops and transport you with its cinematic break, all while maintaining its dark essence.

Treavor:

Purpose of Life is one of your most phenomenal tracks on Spotify, boasting nearly 2 million plays! What do you think made it such an incredible success?

IOA:

I believe the reason for its success is that when it was released, it stood out from the prevailing trends. At that time, breaks in songs were often undervalued, in my opinion. Peak Time Techno primarily focused on energetic, dancefloor-ready drops, often sidelining the importance of breaks. Personally, I find breaks to be even more critical than drops, as they provide the opportunity to convey the story you wish to tell, utilizing all the elements at your disposal. I believe that is precisely what I achieved.

This approach was risky, as it involved leaving the dance floor without a kick drum for a minute and a half. Techno at that time was known for its consistent groove and atmosphere, and Purpose of Life deviated from that pattern, which admittedly made me apprehensive. However, it found a great home with Mainground Music.

The track spent several months on Spotify's "Techno Bunker" playlist, became a sales success on Beatport, consistently appeared on their top charts, featured in the official Parookaville 2024 aftermovie, and was played worldwide by some of the most prominent figures in music. Undoubtedly, it is the song that established my presence in the industry, and I am immensely proud of it.

Treavor:

Your tracks are clean, crisp, beautiful, and distinctly underground. How do you approach producing a track? What is your process for executing your ideas?

IOA:

To produce a song, I require a narrative to convey, regardless of its nature. I am not the type of producer who decides, "Let's create a song this afternoon." That approach does not align with my working style. For me, it's an avenue to express my thoughts; if I don't resonate with what I'm producing, I feel uneasy. Fortunately, I have numerous stories to share, so there's no need to worry, haha.

Regarding my process, it varies depending on the story I wish to tell or the aspect I want to highlight. For instance, if my goal is to convey something more melodic or emotional, I begin with the break, composing chords. However, if I aim to evoke a sense of empowerment, I start with the drop, crafting patterns. The primary challenge I encounter is effectively expressing all the emotions I intend to convey within a limited timeframe in a coherent and logical manner.

Treavor:

Your latest track, Dance All Night, on Kurai Records is out! Can you share some exciting details about it?

IOA:

I crafted this song during the summer, inspired by those fleeting, short nights we all wish could go on forever. It's a track that truly embodies my current sound: intense and emotional, a thrilling rollercoaster of feelings that blends the electrifying energy of trance with the raw power of techno—the ultimate fusion! It's the perfect anthem for both massive festivals and cozy clubs. Words can't do it justice; you just have to experience it for yourself!

Treavor:

What are your favorite plug-ins that you just can't live without?

IOA:

I've always loved working with Avenger, but lately, Serum 2 has truly captivated me! For everything else, I usually stick with FL Studio's stock plugins; I aim to keep everything as straightforward as possible!

Treavor:

What's the one piece of hardware you absolutely need in your studio?

IOA:

The only thing I absolutely need is a MIDI keyboard; everything else is optional. But I love

having my TD-3 handy to play around with sounds, and if we're going to dream big, I hope to

own a Moog Subsequent 37 someday, haha.

Treavor:

What advice would you give to an up-and-coming producer?

IOA:

Discipline! With discipline, you truly have everything!

Go ahead and finish that track you're hesitant to release. You might never release it, or maybe you won't even like it, but guess what? The best part is that you'll learn something new or even speed up your workflow in the process!

Discipline, once again! Have something to say, stay true to yourself, and don't shy away from trying new things. Picture my excitement when I finished Bring Me Back and had to find someone eager to release that Techno and Drum & Bass hybrid, haha!

And above all else, yes, discipline!

Treavor:

I'm eager to hear all about your journey! You dropped your debut track "Psycho" in 2022. Did you release music under a different name before that?

IOA:

My journey into the world of techno began in 2022, motivated by the pandemic and because I no longer identified with what I was doing. But I spent many years making other styles of

music: EDM, R&B, Trap, House, even reggaeton! A genre that everyone demonizes, but hey, as I said before, the worst that could happen was that I learned something new. But I'm not going to tell you the name, although if you search, you can easily find it, haha.

Treavor:

What are the future plans for IOA?

IOA:

There's a lot on the horizon, and I'm thrilled about it!

I'm diving into exciting new collaborations, upcoming shows, and some extraordinary releases for 2026 at Kurai Records and new labels. I'm continuously evolving my sound and exploring new directions while staying true to my roots. I aim to keep growing, inspiring people, and telling stories that endure—both on and off the dance floor.

Treavor:

Thank you so much for your time, and a huge congratulations on being named our Artist of the Year at I Love To Rave Epic! We're absolutely thrilled and can't wait to see you in 2026!

IOA’s creativity and dedication ensure his music will stand the test of time.

His hits from 2025, including Escape From Reality, Free Your Mind, Bring Me Back, After Party Baddies, and All Mine, have already made waves. Dance All Night continues this trend, proving IOA was born for techno and is here to stay.

IOA, Dance All Night EP, Kurai Records (Buy on Beatport)