Oliver Heldens just released “Ruins,” a collaboration with vocalist Julia Church. The single shows both musicians pushing into more emotionally charged territory while still being dancefloor-friendly.
Released by Ministry of Sound, “Ruins” represents yet another development in Heldens’ sound. It fuses Church’s captivating vocal performance with his signature melodic house style. With a production that strikes a balance between festival-ready excitement and personal emotional moments, the song tackles themes of vulnerability and healing through heartbreak.
Church’s first demo drew Heldens in right away, and he says it gave him the idea to write what he refers to as “a massive dance anthem.” In the finished version, Church’s lyrically rich performance is supported by the producer’s distinctive elements. They include a driving bassline, trance-influenced lead synths, and prominent piano notes.
Church adds a wealth of experience to the partnership, having collaborated with well-known artists from the electronic music scene. They include Armin van Buuren, Diplo, Kaskade, and John Summit. Her work on “Ruins” exemplifies the voice and composition abilities that have made her a popular dance music collaborator.
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The release coincides with Heldens’ ongoing hectic tour schedule. It includes stops at big venues like Creamfields and Tomorrowland as well as residencies at Pacha and Ushuaia in Ibiza.
“Ruins” exemplifies both musicians at the height of their creative abilities. They produced a song that is suitable for both private listening and club environments. The partnership demonstrates how modern dance music keeps figuring out how to combine dancefloor practicality with emotional depth.