Six Goa Trance Albums for Raving in Anjuna

Inspired by psychedelic rock and American counterculture, the hippies of Anjuna Beach helped create the soundtrack for ravers around the world. Named after its home, here are the best Goa trance albums for your beach rave party.

“Moment of Truth” by Man with No Name (1996)

The Goa trance alias of Martin Freeland produced some of the genre’s classics, known for the hard, melodic sound that made Freeland a highly sought-after remixer.

“Let’s Turn On” by Doof (1996)

Doof, named after the term for Australian rave parties, is an eclectic producer from London. He was pivotal in psytrance, before moving on to other genres after the genre took a commercial turn.

“I.F.O.” by Pleiadians (1997)

I.F.O. is the kind of album that takes a few listens to fully appreciate. It was released at the tail end of the genre’s golden age, when the style and production techniques fully matured into a mind-numbing, psychedelic experience.

“Trust in Trance” by Astral Projection (1996)

For many people, this is the quintessential sound of Goa trance. The sound is slightly mainstream and melodic, but it’s sure to induce a sense of dance euphoria.

“Twisted” by Hallucinogen (1995)

Twisted is one of the highest selling releases in the genre. If you’re dancing to this album at your beach party, take a look at “Are You Shpongled?” for the afterparty, Simon Posford’s ambient album.

“Goa Mix” by Paul Oakenfold (1994)

Paul Oakenfold isn’t a Goa trace producer, but this BBC Essential Mix spun on Dec. 18, 1994, was a groundbreaking moment for the genre. Oakenfold spent a lot of time in Goa, influencing his early career before moving from the sound.