Armin van Buuren’s Ultra. A Tale of Two Sets One a Masterpiece, the Other a Disappointment.

When it comes to the world of electronic music, few names command as much respect as Armin van Buuren. Known for his ability to captivate audiences with electrifying performances, his sets at Ultra Music Festival have become legendary. However, Armin van Buuren’s 2023 Ultra performance told two very different stories: one set left fans underwhelmed, while the other became a standout moment in trance history.

Ultra 2023 Mainstage: Playing It Too Safe

Armin’s mainstage set at Ultra 2023 had all the makings of a great performance but ultimately fell short of expectations. While it wasn’t a bad set by any means, it felt uncharacteristically restrained for the trance icon. Fans noted that the set lacked energy, with no tracks exceeding 130 BPM—a surprising choice for someone renowned for high-energy performances.

While Armin introduced some exciting new IDs during the set, such as “Love Is A Drug” and the yet-to-be-released “Dream A Little Dream,” the overall pacing felt too safe. These tracks showed promise, but their impact was dulled by the set’s lack of dynamic progression. Compared to Armin’s typically vibrant mainstage appearances, this one felt subdued, leaving fans wanting more.

Many attendees couldn’t help but compare this performance to Armin’s past mainstage sets, which often brought the crowd to its feet with pulse-pounding beats and seamless transitions. While the set had its moments, it failed to capture the electrifying energy that fans have come to expect from Armin van Buuren at Ultra.

ASOT Stage 2023: A Trance Masterpiece

In stark contrast, Armin’s set on the ASOT (A State of Trance) stage at Ultra 2023 was nothing short of spectacular. Clocking in at over 138 BPM, this set was a return to form, showcasing Armin’s ability to transport listeners into a euphoric trance state. Packed with high-energy tracks, cutting-edge IDs, and flawless transitions, the ASOT performance reminded fans why Armin remains a titan in the trance world.

The ASOT set was hailed as one of the best performances of the festival, proving that Armin still knows how to deliver when it matters most. Fans and critics alike praised the set for its energy, creativity, and willingness to push boundaries—a sharp contrast to the safe approach of his mainstage appearance.

Looking Ahead: Redemption at Ultra 2024

Fast forward to Ultra 2024, and Armin van Buuren returned to the mainstage with a set that silenced critics and thrilled fans. Packed with exhilarating tracks, unexpected twists, and a renewed sense of energy, his 2024 mainstage performance is now regarded as one of his best in recent years. This comeback highlighted Armin’s ability to listen to feedback and evolve as an artist.

A Lesson in Adaptability

Armin van Buuren’s 2023 Ultra sets illustrate the challenges of catering to diverse audiences at a massive festival. While his mainstage set missed the mark for some, his ASOT performance proved that he’s still a master of his craft. By learning from these experiences, Armin continues to solidify his place as one of the most innovative and enduring figures in electronic music. Fans eagerly await what he’ll bring to the table next, knowing he’ll always keep pushing the boundaries of his artistry.