Members: Dirkie Coetzee, Elliot Vaughn, and vocalist Jan Johnston (core lineup on their best-known releases)
Alias: Sunblind
Origin: South Africa / United States / United Kingdom
Genres: Uplifting Trance, Vocal Trance, Progressive Trance, Melodic Trance
Years Active: 2010–present
Roles: Production Project, Producers, Vocal Collaboration
Labels: Infrasonic Recordings, Enhanced Recordings, Amsterdam Trance Records (ATR), Raz Nitzan Music, and various trance labels
Associated Acts: Dirkie Coetzee, Elliot Vaughn, Jan Johnston, Susana, Katty Heath, Denise Rivera, Johan Gielen, and numerous artists from the international trance scene
Introduction
Sunblind is an international trance project best known for producing uplifting and vocal trance that combines soaring melodies, emotional songwriting, and polished modern production. Formed through the collaboration of South African producer Dirkie Coetzee, American producer Elliot Vaughn, and legendary British trance vocalist Jan Johnston, the project quickly gained recognition for creating emotionally driven trance music inspired by the classic vocal trance era.
Sunblind\’s productions blend contemporary production techniques with timeless trance melodies, resulting in music that appeals to both longtime trance enthusiasts and newer audiences. Their releases have received support from leading DJs including Armin van Buuren, Aly & Fila, Giuseppe Ottaviani, Paul van Dyk, Solarstone, and Roman Messer.
Formation
Sunblind was established as a collaborative project bringing together experienced producers and one of trance music\’s most recognizable vocalists.
Each member contributes unique strengths:
- Dirkie Coetzee — uplifting melodies and orchestral arrangements.
- Elliot Vaughn — modern production, progressive structure, and sound design.
- Jan Johnston — iconic songwriting and emotional vocal performances.
This combination has given Sunblind a distinctive identity within modern vocal trance.
Musical Style
Vocal Trance
Vocal trance is the defining characteristic of Sunblind\’s music.
Their productions feature:
- Emotional female vocals.
- Beautiful lyrical themes.
- Atmospheric breakdowns.
- Memorable vocal hooks.
- Euphoric climaxes.
The project\’s vocal work recalls the golden era of trance while incorporating modern production standards.
Uplifting Trance
Most Sunblind productions are rooted in uplifting trance.
Common characteristics include:
- Soaring melodies.
- Driving basslines.
- Emotional chord progressions.
- Powerful climaxes.
- Inspirational musical themes.
These elements create the project\’s signature uplifting atmosphere.
Progressive Trance
Progressive influences also appear throughout their productions.
These include:
- Layered soundscapes.
- Smooth arrangement development.
- Cinematic intros.
- Deep atmospheric textures.
This approach provides musical depth without sacrificing melodic accessibility.
Collaboration with Jan Johnston
One of Sunblind’s defining features is the participation of Jan Johnston, one of the most celebrated vocalists in trance history.
Her involvement brings:
- Timeless vocal expression.
- Sophisticated songwriting.
- Emotional authenticity.
- Instantly recognizable vocal character.
Her performances elevate Sunblind\’s productions while connecting them to the classic era of vocal trance.
Notable Tracks and Releases
“Believe”
Sunblind\’s signature release, “Believe”, combines Jan Johnston\’s emotional vocals with uplifting melodies and modern trance production, becoming one of the project\’s best-known tracks.
“More Than A Dream”
A vocal trance production admired for its heartfelt lyrics and euphoric arrangement.
“United We Stand”
An uplifting trance release emphasizing emotional melodies and inspiring musical progression.
“Shine”
A melodic vocal trance production featuring atmospheric sound design and expressive vocal performance.
“Take Me Home”
A progressive-influenced vocal trance release blending cinematic textures with uplifting energy.
“Light Within”
A modern uplifting trance production highlighting the project’s melodic strengths.
Production Style
Sunblind’s productions are distinguished by:
- Emotional storytelling.
- Clean modern production.
- Layered harmonies.
- Rich orchestral textures.
- Dynamic arrangements.
- Powerful melodic climaxes.
Their music consistently balances emotion with dancefloor energy.
Signature Sound
Sunblind’s sound is characterized by:
- Euphoric melodies.
- Emotional vocals.
- Progressive atmospheres.
- Uplifting arrangements.
- Cinematic soundscapes.
- Warm synthesizer textures.
- Inspirational lyrical themes.
- High production quality.
These characteristics have become synonymous with the project.
Influence on Vocal Trance
Although Sunblind maintains a selective discography, the project has contributed to the continued popularity of uplifting vocal trance by combining classic songwriting with modern production techniques.
Their work reinforces the importance of:
- Emotional vocal performance.
- Strong melodic composition.
- Producer-vocalist collaboration.
- Timeless trance arrangements.
The project serves as an example of how the traditions of classic vocal trance can be successfully adapted for contemporary audiences.
Legacy
Sunblind has established itself as a respected collaborative project within modern vocal trance by bringing together the talents of Dirkie Coetzee, Elliot Vaughn, and Jan Johnston. Through releases such as “Believe,” “More Than A Dream,” “United We Stand,” “Shine,” “Take Me Home,” and “Light Within,” the project has demonstrated a commitment to melody, emotion, and musical craftsmanship.
Blending uplifting trance, progressive atmospheres, and memorable vocal performances, Sunblind continues to uphold the traditions of classic vocal trance while contributing to its ongoing evolution in the modern trance landscape.