Armin van Buuren - Intense (2 LP)
- LP
- 2 piece(s)
- 2013
- 15 tracks
- 1 uur, 19 min
- trance
Whether you're just starting your vinyl collection or have been spinning for years, the right turntable makes all the difference. We've selected the best options for every budget.
Discover our selection of turntables
3.2
Average of 6 reviews
3
0
0
1
2
Whether a review is positive, negative, or neutral, we always publish it. However, we screen every review to ensure it is authentic and free of profanity. These checks happen automatically, though a human occasionally steps in. We never pay for reviews.
What's the sound and pressing quality like on this reissue?
I'm truly flabbergasted by how disappointing this album is, especially after being a big fan of his previous singles like "Suddenly Summer," "I'll Listen," and "Nehalennia." To be honest, though, I'm not entirely shocked. Many of these tracks embody the current trend in trance, the kind that big names like Orjan Nilsen, Ferry Corsten, and unfortunately Markus Schulz are producing. It's mostly just upbeat trouse, and that's what really bothers me. I don't mind when an artist explores new directions. Evolution is only natural, right? With so many great artists out there, it's easy to overlook another one, but the issue here is the genre labeling. The industry needs to finally acknowledge that this isn't trance and reclassify it as trouse for the benefit of narrow-minded club goers. I'm tired of finding tracks like these (and Tiesto's and Deadmau5's nonsense) in beatport's trance and progressive house sections. But moving on, I can't say I enjoyed any song on this album. I was really hoping "Love Never Came" would at least showcase Richard Bedford's incredible vocals, but it fell short. Maybe the God of trance should just focus on DJing for a while.
I haven't spotted my edition yet, and it's been tweaked by Vidisco, but I just had to share that I absolutely loved this album. It's a tad too commercial at times, but it's packed with melodies that'll lift your spirits, bring a smile to your face, tug at your heartstrings, and stir your emotions. My top picks are "Beautiful Life," "Waiting for the Night," and "Sound of Drums"—that last one's my absolute favorite from the whole album. As for CD 2, "More Intense," I'm not a fan. Why rehash the same tunes with remixes? It's a waste of space, if you ask me. I do, however, adore the new track "Don´t want to fight love away"—that should've been on the main album! Great work, Armin ;-)
Generally, it's pretty disappointing. There's a recurring issue with awkward singing, overused builds, and drops that don't deliver, all attempting to copy W&W (except 'Last Stop Before Heaven (Maarten de Jong Remix)'—a total deadmau5 knockoff) The standout track is likely 'Forever Is Ours (Solarstone Pure Mix)', which was the song on the album with the most promise from the start, so that's no shock. It's funny that this is "exclusive" to beatport, as if anyone's interested. I feel bad for whoever buys all these tracks at $2.49 each lol!
I'm at a loss for where to start with this one. Yet another disappointingly commercial and generic offering from AvB. The album's title is quite misleading, as it's anything but intense. You'll find yourself yawning through most of the tracks, filled with uninspired pop vocals (though I'll admit, Waiting For The Night has its moments with a catchy pluck line and a solid bassline) until you reach track 11, Last Stop Before Heaven, which is arguably the highlight of the entire album, though that's not a high bar. The only other somewhat decent track is Who's Afraid Of 138?!, but that one might only appeal to fans of modern trance. Most of the album was unbearable for me, and stumbling upon Last Stop Before Heaven felt like discovering a gem among pebbles. But hearing that track only frustrated me more, as it proves Armin can still create a great trance tune when he wants to. I ripped those two songs to my computer and put the CD away, not planning to listen to it again. If you're into trance, I'd recommend just grabbing Last Stop Before Heaven & Who's Afraid Of 138?! from Beatport and skipping the rest of the album. If you're into commercial electro house, you might enjoy this, but otherwise, give it a miss.
We don't have a live price right now, but stock fluctuates daily. You can check for hidden stock on Amazon directly, or let us alert you as soon as it is available.
| Date | Lowest price | Average price |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 29, 2025 | $53.98 | €53.98 |
| Jun 30, 2025 | $53.98 | €53.98 |
| Jul 31, 2025 | $53.98 | €53.98 |