Introduction

From the beaches of Goa to global festival stages, psytrance has evolved into one of the most dynamic forms of electronic music.
Pioneered by Goa Gil and his circle of early artists in the 1980s and 90s, what began as Goa Trance soon branched into many unique styles — each defined by its own rhythm, soundscape, and energy.

This guide breaks down the main subgenres of psytrance, their origins, tempo ranges, and defining characteristics.
We’ve also curated playlists for each style to help you experience and understand them better.

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Progressive Psy (Psy-Prog)

BPM: 132–138
Origin: Europe

Progressive Psy — or Psy-Prog — blends the smooth build-ups of progressive trance with the energy of psytrance. It features gradual layering, melodic basslines, and a polished, club-friendly atmosphere. Over the years, it has become the most accessible and widely recognized face of psytrance worldwide.

Notable Artists: Ace Ventura, Liquid Soul

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Goa Trance (Goa Psy)

BPM: 135–150
Origin: Goa, India

The foundation of all psytrance genres, Goa Trance emerged in India during the 80s and 90s. Combining hypnotic melodies, ethnic influences, and organic textures, it captures the energy of the early beach gatherings in Goa. Despite the rise of newer styles, Goa Trance continues to thrive and remains a beloved classic sound among global fans.

Notable Artists: Astral Projection, Asia 2001, Hallucinogen, Juno Reactor

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Full-On (Morning Psy)

BPM: 140–150
Origin: Israel

Known for its upbeat, melodic energy, Full-On is designed to keep the dance floor moving. It evolved in the early 2000s as artists combined Goa Trance roots with a brighter, faster sound. Its signature 4/4 kick pattern and cheerful tone make it perfect for daytime sets at festivals.

Notable Artists: Astrix, Avalon, GMS, Tristan, 1200 Micrograms

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Psychill (Ambient Psy)

BPM: 90–120

Unlike its high-energy counterparts, Psychill focuses on relaxation and deep introspection. Merging ambient textures with gentle trance rhythms, it’s ideal for meditation, visualization, or post-dance unwinding. The music encourages reflection and calm — a soothing counterpart to psytrance’s intensity.

Notable Artists: Asura, Astronaut Ape, Sumiruna, E-Mantra, Lemonchill

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Dark Psytrance (Dark Psy)

BPM: 140–175 +
Origin: Russia, Germany

Emerging in the late 1990s, Dark Psy explores the deeper, more experimental side of psytrance. It features complex sound design, faster tempos, and atmospheric storytelling inspired by science-fiction themes. The genre’s goal is to create an immersive journey — mysterious, high-energy, and rhythmically intense.

Notable Artists: Goa Gil, Fungus Funk, Rawar, Dark Whisper, Farebi Jalebi

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Forest Psy

BPM: 145–175 +
Origin: Denmark & Nordic Regions

Forest Psy grew from Dark Psy but brings a more organic, nature-inspired sound. Expect earthy textures, tribal percussion, and soundscapes that feel alive — as if the forest itself were part of the music. It balances the intensity of dark psy with the natural warmth of Goa Trance.

Notable Artists: Derango, Atriohm, Ajja, Arjuna

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Hi-Tech (Psycore)

BPM: 170–220
Origin: Russia

The fastest and most unpredictable branch of psytrance, Hi-Tech combines complex rhythms, glitchy elements, and futuristic basslines. It evolved in the 2000s when artists like Psykovsky and Kindzadza pushed the boundaries of tempo and creativity. Today, new talents such as Killatk and Pyrokine continue to bring innovation to the genre.

Notable Artists: Psykovsky, Xenrox, Technical Hitch, Killatk

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Final Notes

From the melodic energy of Full-On to the meditative calm of Psychill, psytrance offers something for every mood and mindset.
Its evolution mirrors the global community that created it — diverse, experimental, and always connected through sound.

🎧 If you enjoyed this guide, follow our Spotify channel for curated psytrance and techno playlists updated regularly.