The rhythms of trance: Cultural phenomenology and neural mechanisms of music-induced non-ordinary states of consciousness.
Athanasia Kontouli, Michael J Hove, Alexandre Lehmann, Peter Vuust, Peter E Keller
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews July 1, 2026 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2026.106706 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Shamanism Altered states of consciousness Philosophy of mind |
| Keywords | Music-induced trance Neuroimaging Raves |
| Key findings | Music-induced trance across traditional shamanism and contemporary rave culture engages partially overlapping neural dynamics, including increased low-frequency synchronization and shifts from executive control to limbic and default mode networks. |
Abstract
This review integrates anthropological and neuroscientific perspectives to elucidate music-induced trance processes and their relevance to non-ordinary states of consciousness (NSCs). The objectives are to deepen the understanding of trance phenomena, delineate links across diverse trance expressions, and inform future neuroscientific research. Drawing on anthropological insights, we examine the phenomenology, reported benefits, and central role of music in trance-inducing practices. Examples ranging from traditional shamanism to contemporary rave culture reveal shared cultural narratives and highlight a common set of musical features that facilitate trance induction and maintenance across ritualistic and recreational contexts. On the neuroscientific front, we review brain imaging studies that map neural activity and connectivity during music-induced trance processes. Findings suggest that different forms of trance may engage partially overlapping neural dynamics, including increased synchronization in low-frequency bands and shifts from executive control networks to limbic and default mode networks. These patterns underline the dynamic interplay between cognitive, emotional, and sensory systems during trance, although the current empirical evidence remains fragmented and methodologically heterogeneous. Our interdisciplinary synthesis emphasizes trance as both a cultural and biological phenomenon and calls for future integration of phenomenological and neurophysiological data to build comprehensive models of music-induced NSCs.
Comparable studies
Other narrative reviews on altered states of consciousness, most cited first.
| Study | Year | Design | Participants |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Subjective Effects of Psychedelics Are Necessary for Their Enduring Therapeutic Effects. | 2020 | Review | |
| Psychobiology of Altered States of Consciousness. | 2005 | Review | |
| Intrinsic Brain Activity in Altered States of Consciousness | 2008 | Review | |
| Dynamic functional connectivity and brain metastability during altered states of consciousness | 2017 | Review | |
| A default mode of brain function in altered states of consciousness. | 2013 | Review |
Citations in the library
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- Ongoing Cortical Activity at Rest: Criticality, Multistability, and Ghost Attractors Journal of Neuroscience March 7, 2012
- Psychobiology of Altered States of Consciousness. Psychological Bulletin 2005
and 43 more in the library