Story and photo by DCist Contributor Jason Cox

The last time Paul Van Dyk was in town, it was an almost somber occasion — his trance anthems pulsed through the chambers of Nation one last time, only weeks before the raver haven shut its doors for good. When would he return? Where would he play? Fur, the most obvious choice, was likely out of the question if you listen to the urban legends about PVD refusing to play there after a bouncer didn’t recognize him and wouldn’t let him into the club. What would happen?

One year has passed and the No. 1 DJ in the world (well, at least according to DJ Mag in 2005 and 2006) is returning to the nation’s capital for a rave-filled evening at — the 9:30 Club?!? While it’s no warehouse-sized party zone, 9:30 makes sense as a place to have big DJ names at the mostly rock-oriented club. The floor is wide open and partygoers can see the stage from just about every vantage point. High ceilings and a lack of age restrictions certainly don’t hurt either. We’ve also heard that a special booth is being constructed for the DJ and that partiers will have access to the stage itself during the show.

PVD is promoting the August release of his latest album, “In Between.” His collaborations on the album stretch far and wide, ranging from David Byrne all the way to Jessica Sutta of the Pussycat Dolls. The East German-born DJ is best known for his love of performing and getting close to his audiences, no matter the size. Whether it’s his traditional trance style or his recent experiments with poppier dance music, each set he spins is a new and evolving experience that’s happening live, not a preordered list.

Tickets are still available to the show (everyone knows EDM fans rarely buy tickets in advance). DJ Will Delphi will open for PVD.

Buzzlife presents Paul Van Dyk
@ 9:30 Club tonight (Thursday)
Doors open at 9 p.m., PVD spins at midnight
$40 at the door