Code Black enters a new era with a new musical direction

By Wouter de Vink 17 May 2023

Code Black opens a new chapter in his career. After one and a half years of preparations, the Hardstyle pioneer is going in a different direction: a fresh and updated sound for Code Black, as well as introducing his new live act BLACKOUT. He will introduce his live act with a brand-new sound on the mainstage of Intents Festival on Saturday. “After all these years I needed a new challenge.”

ALSO READ: ‘Defqon.1 surprises and programs Code Black in the BLUE’

Code Black has been an established name in the scene for over 15 years. The Australian-born even moved to the Netherlands in 2011 as Bioweapon (with Audiofreq), and eventually began his own solo career as Code Black where he has made his mark with great success ever since. Whoever thinks of Code Black quickly thinks of the big hits such as ‘Red Planet’, ‘Pandora’ and of course the collab with Atmozfears called ‘Accelerate’ – but now it’s time for something else.

After many iconic releases, anthems and performances under his name, Code Black has started a new step in his career. “I felt like I had to do something completely different,” he explains. Being a sound designer at heart, he needed a new challenge in the studio. He worked in the deepest secrecy since 2021, crafting a new sound. A more dynamic version with which he can challenge himself creatively. However, the essence of Code Black will remain: “But expect the unexpected…”

Code Black will move forward with this new harder-hitting sound for his regular DJ sets, as well as showcasing his live act BLACKOUT with a full suit and facemask, and carefully curated visuals for an immersive live experience.

Code Black presents new style and showcases BLACKOUT live act on the Intents mainstage

Code Black is also launching his new live act: BLACKOUT. “It allows me to showcase my new music on stage in the best possible way.” The European premiere will take place on the mainstage of Intents Festival and Code Black can also be found with a regular set in the BLUE during Fresh Friday at Defqon.1. This is a huge change for the Aussie euphoric legend – we can expect high quality productions and energetic stage performances with his new style. “Welcome to the FUTURE.”

Code Black – ‘The Future’ was released on May 11th on I AM HARDSTYLE. A hat off to the essence of ‘Pandora’ and ‘Red Planet’, with its atmospheric sounds and harder edge. This is the first release of many to come from Code Black. Follow Code Black on Instagram to keep up with his new era and the BLACKOUT live act.

Cover footage taken from Facebook page Code Black / HSU