The full weight of Hardwell's comeback era has finally been realized.
Months of lead-up to the Dutch icon's hotly anticipated comeback album, REBELS NEVER DIE, has culminated with the full release of the 14-track effort.
In trickling a steady stream of singles out to the public, fans by now are well familiar with Hardwell's bold switch-up towards a mainstage techno-focused sound. However, while fans have processed the initial shock and awe of the superstar producer's dramatic change in course, hearing the album now as a cohesive project in many ways is likely to provide his diehard supporters a newfound sense of appreciation for the leap of faith he took many months ago.
Hardwell was certainly cognizant that upon his return, fans would be filled with questions.
"When I look at artists I really admire and they change their sound, the first question is, 'Why?' It's not that I don't agree with them," Hardwell explained in a recent interview with EDM.com. "I just want to know, 'Why?' What in your own mind made you want to change your sound or your signature?"
Thus, Hardwell wanted to ensure expectations were set appropriately from the jump. Opening REBELS NEVER DIE with the cinematic monologue of "BROKEN MIRROR," he remains upfront and unwavering with his intentions.