Markus Schulz has officially released In Search Of Sunrise 22 – The Awakening, marking the highly anticipated first installment of this year’s three-part edition of his iconic mix-compilation series. The release showcases a diverse array of talent, featuring music from Above & Beyond, Paul Oakenfold, Joris Voorn, VER:WEST, Solarstone, and JES x Alex M.O.R.P.H., alongside Schulz’s own productions under his Dakota and Aeridan aliases.
In Search Of Sunrise has remained a cornerstone of the electronic music scene for over two decades, evolving from a traditional trance mix series into a seasonal ritual for enthusiasts of progressive and melodic sounds. In recent years, Markus Schulz has taken full creative control, curating each edition to tell a cohesive musical story rather than simply compiling tracks.
“One of the greatest privileges of guiding ‘In Search Of Sunrise’ is that each year brings another opportunity to tell a fresh musical story — and a complete one,” Schulz said. “The destination is always ‘Sunrise,’ but the road that leads there is never the same. Allowing it to develop naturally is what’s kept the series thriving over its longer course.”
For the second consecutive year, the series unfolds across three distinct releases throughout the summer. ‘The Awakening’ serves as the opening chapter, weaving together eighteen tracks that span progressive house, melodic techno, and cinematic electronica. Following this release, fans can look forward to Nirvana and the final chapter, Nocturnal Voyage, which will anchor the full physical release of ISOS 22.
The mix features a wide range of producers, including Jerome Isma-Ae, French 79, and Matt Fax. A standout moment is the collaboration between Paul Oakenfold, Markus Schulz, and Grace on the track ‘Not Over Yet.’ Schulz also highlights his own creative evolution, noting that the mix is designed to seed ideas that will continue to unfold throughout the summer.
“The Awakening sets the tone for the journey because it’s about — dare I say it — infinite possibilities,” Schulz added. “You’re seeding ideas that will continue to reveal themselves across the rest of the summer’s trip. Bringing those worlds together is where the magic happens.”
In Search Of Sunrise 22 – The Awakening is available now via Black Hole Recordings.
