Solarstone

Solarstone, primarily the project of Richard Mowatt, stands as a foundational pillar of the 'Pure Trance' movement. Emerging in the mid-1990s, the project initially functioned as a trio before Mowatt took the helm as the primary creative force.

His sound identity is defined by a staunch adherence to the melodic and atmospheric roots of trance, consciously rejecting the 'trouse' and EDM-heavy trends of the 2010s. Solarstone is best known for the 'Balearic' influence in his work, a sub-style that emphasizes Mediterranean warmth, acoustic guitar samples, and sunrise-appropriate melodies. His career arc is marked by significant longevity, transitioning from a chart-topping producer of the late-90s trance boom to a respected curator and tastemaker through his Solaris International radio show and Pure Trance label brand. Critically, he is viewed as a 'producer's producer,' noted for high technical standards and a sophisticated understanding of harmonic progression. His influence is felt in the works of artists like Orkidea and Giuseppe Ottaviani, who share his commitment to the genre's emotional core. Solarstone remains a vital figure for collectors of melodic electronic music, particularly through his 'Electronic Architecture' compilations which bridge the gap between club culture and art-house electronics.