Dakota is the edgier, darker alter ego established by the prolific DJ and producer Markus Schulz, who has ventured deeply into the realms of progressive house and trance under this moniker. The Dakota project has allowed Schulz to explore the more club-focused and underground aspects of electronic music, showcasing his versatility and depth as an artist. With a career spanning more than two decades, Schulz has utilized the Dakota identity intermittently, treating fans to a series of highly conceptual releases and performances that often center around storytelling and thematic exploration.

The most recent body of work under the Dakota name features an array of captivating releases that touch on the hypnotic and moody shades of electronic music. "Manray" exhibits a blend of pulsating beats and atmospheric soundscapes, magnified in intensity through a Sam Wolfe Remix, aligning with Dakota's preference for the shadowy corners of the dance floor. "Odyssey to the Netherworld" and "Mindshaft" further take listeners on a deep auditory journey filled with emotive melodies and driving rhythms. "Vapour" continues in this vein, while "Cry of the Banshee" and "Tuluminati" add a touch of esoteric intrigue to the mix. With "Avalon 6AM," Dakota captures the quintessential after-hours vibe, which is also echoed in a separate release of the same name. "The Nine Skies Remixes" revisits the rich narratives and expansive sound design of a previous concept series, reaffirming Dakota's standing as a project that excites with its vision and execution.

Genres

Ambient

House

Deep House

Techno

Progressive House

Tech House

Trance

Melodic Techno

Progressive Trance

Latest Release

Stereo 11AM

Markus Schulz•

Dakota

Single - Released May 31, 2024