Origin: Auckland, New Zealand
Genres: Vocal Trance, Uplifting Trance, Progressive Trance
Years Active: 2005–present
Roles: DJ, Producer, Label Founder
Labels: Raz Nitzan Music (RNM), Adrian & Raz Recordings, Red Force Recordings, Incline Events (founder)
Associated Acts: Neev Kennedy, Patrick De Vere, Ronski Speed, Daniel Kandi
Introduction
Jared Knapp is a New Zealand trance DJ, producer, and label founder, known for his melodic productions and collaborations with leading vocalists. Active since the mid‑2000s, he has contributed to the vocal trance movement through both his own releases and his work with Incline Events, a label and event organization he established in 2005.
Early Journey
- Founded Incline Events in 2005, a record label and event organization that helped promote trance in New Zealand.
- Began producing trance tracks in the late 2000s, collaborating with international artists and vocalists.
- His early releases, such as “Encompass” (2009, with Ronski Speed), showcased his melodic sensibilities.
Career Highlights
- “Encompass” (2009) – Released on Red Force Recordings, with a remix by Tritonal, marking his breakthrough collaboration with Ronski Speed.
- “Night Moves” (2009) – Collaboration with Neev Kennedy and Patrick De Vere, released on Adrian & Raz Recordings, later remixed by Daniel Kandi.
- Featured on Raz Nitzan Music compilations, alongside vocal trance luminaries such as Katty Heath, Susana, and Elles de Graaf.
- His productions have been included in vocal trance bundles and playlists on Beatport and Deezer, ensuring international reach.
Signature Sound
- Melodic vocal trance, blending heartfelt lyrics with soaring synths.
- Emotional breakdowns, often paired with powerful vocal toplines.
- Collaborative storytelling, working closely with vocalists to create immersive tracks.
Recognition
- Praised as one of the key New Zealand voices in trance, contributing to the global vocal trance movement.
- His catalog demonstrates a commitment to emotional resonance and melodic clarity, appealing to DJs and fans worldwide.
- Seen as a bridge between Oceania’s trance scene and the European vocal trance tradition.
Legacy and Outlook
Jared Knapp’s legacy lies in his fusion of New Zealand’s emerging trance identity with international collaborations, positioning him as a distinctive figure in vocal trance. Looking ahead, he is expected to continue working with Raz Nitzan Music and Adrian & Raz, while expanding his catalog of vocal‑driven trance anthems.