In da Mix

Released in 1999, In da Mix is the debut studio album by German duo Blank & Jones (Piet Blank and Jaspa Jones). While the duo eventually pivoted toward the downtempo and Balearic lounge scenes, this record is a quintessential document of the 'Second Wave' of trance. It features several of their most enduring club hits, including 'Cream' and 'Heartbeat,' which helped define the melodic, progressive sound that dominated European airwaves at the time. The album is characterized by its high production values, utilizing state-of-the-art digital synthesis and a clean, punchy mix. It sits between the underground rave culture of the early 90s and the commercial trance explosion of the early 2000s. Critically, it is viewed as a polished entry point into the genre, showcasing the duo's ability to craft hooks that work as well on the radio as they do in a warehouse. The inclusion of shorter 'radio' versions alongside extended club mixes highlights its dual nature as both a listener's album and a DJ's tool.