Armin van Buuren The Sound of the 2010s, Iconic EDM Albums You Need to Revisit.

The 2010s marked a transformative period for electronic dance music (EDM). Artists pushed boundaries, redefining the genre’s sound and creating albums that would stand the test of time. Amid these pioneers, Armin van Buuren held a pivotal role, shaping the decade’s soundscape and leaving an indelible mark on the EDM scene. Let’s take a journey through the iconic albums of the 2010s, including those by Armin and his contemporaries, that deserve another listen.

Armin van Buuren’s Legacy in the 2010s

No discussion of 2010s EDM albums is complete without highlighting Armin van Buuren’s contributions. With albums like Intense (2013) and Embrace (2015), Armin solidified his position as a trailblazer in progressive and trance music. Tracks such as “This Is What It Feels Like” and “Another You” demonstrated his ability to fuse melodic trance with mainstream appeal. His influence during this era bridged the gap between underground roots and mainstream stardom, ensuring his music resonated with both purists and casual listeners.

Armin’s role in popularizing trance music during a time when the genre faced fierce competition from big room house and dubstep is a testament to his artistry. His curated A State of Trance compilations also served as a gateway for fans to explore the broader spectrum of EDM.

The Albums That Defined the Decade

While Armin van Buuren held his own, other artists shaped the sound of the 2010s with game-changing albums. Here’s a look at some of the most impactful releases:

Skrillex – Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites, Bangarang

Skrillex revolutionized the EDM scene with his aggressive, bass-heavy tracks. These albums didn’t just create bangers—they introduced dubstep to the mainstream, inspiring a generation of producers.

Flume – Flume, Skin

Flume’s experimental sound design set new standards for creativity in EDM. Tracks like “Never Be Like You” and “Say It” are masterpieces that blended lush textures with emotional depth.

Odesza – In Return, A Moment Apart

Odesza’s cinematic approach brought a fresh perspective to electronic music. Their lush arrangements and dreamy vocals made these albums timeless classics.

Porter Robinson – Worlds

Porter Robinson redefined the genre with Worlds, an album that embraced storytelling and emotional resonance. Tracks like “Sad Machine” and “Lionhearted” showcased his innovative approach to production.

Madeon – Adventure

Madeon’s vibrant and meticulously crafted Adventure solidified his position as one of the decade’s most creative artists. It’s a perfect blend of pop and EDM sensibilities.

Disclosure – Settle

Bringing deep house back to the forefront, Disclosure’s Settle was a dancefloor anthem factory. Hits like “Latch” and “White Noise” became instant classics.

Bicep – Bicep

Bicep’s self-titled album captured the essence of underground electronic music while appealing to a wider audience. The duo’s focus on intricate beats and atmospheric sounds cemented their legacy.

Why Revisit These Albums Now?

The 2010s EDM albums weren’t just popular—they were transformative. They pushed creative boundaries and defined an era when electronic music became a global phenomenon. Revisiting these records, especially those from Armin van Buuren, offers a glimpse into a decade of innovation and passion. Whether you’re drawn to Armin’s uplifting trance or Skrillex’s gritty basslines, these albums are a testament to the diversity and evolution of EDM.