Mindslash and Shadowmaw Push Deeper Into the Darkness on “What We Say”
A Powerful Return
“What We Say” marks the highly anticipated return of Mindslash and Shadowmaw as they once again join forces to deliver an electrifying new collaboration designed for the pulsating heart of dancefloors everywhere. Building on the momentum of their breakout track “Mechanical Duality,” this duo dives even deeper into darker and explosively rich psy-techno influences, refining the powerful sonic identity they continue to cultivate together.
Mindslash: A Rising Titan in Techno
Over the years, Mindslash has established himself as one of the standout names in peak-time techno, securing a coveted spot among the Top 50 best-selling artists in the genre. His impressive catalogue spans respected labels like Set About, Invicta, Animarum, Crypt Music, and Technography. With multiple releases consistently climbing the charts, he enjoys remarkable support from industry giants, including Armin Van Buuren, Nicole Moudaber, and Danny Avila. His electrifying sound has echoed through the loudspeakers of some of the world’s most iconic festivals, including Tomorrowland and Coachella.
The Creative Energy Behind “What We Say”
In an exclusive interview, both Mindslash and Shadowmaw shared insights into their creative process and the energy that fueled the making of “What We Say.”
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Handling Pressure After Success
- Mindslash: “Honestly, there was more excitement than pressure. The success of ‘Mechanical Duality’ felt surreal, and every collaboration with Shadowmaw inspires a unique energy from the outset.”
- Shadowmaw: “For me, seeing ‘Mechanical Duality’ played by big names like Armin Van Buuren and Adam Beyer was incredibly motivating. It reassured us that we are on the right creative track and encouraged us to push further with ‘What We Say.’”
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The Driving Vision
- Mindslash: “The core spirit of techno is the feeling of freedom, and that was the central vision behind ‘What We Say.’ We aimed for it to be intense, hypnotic, and emotionally charged, designed to consume the energy of the room during peak moments.”
- Shadowmaw: “I had an initial theme and some sounds ready, but sharing it with Mindslash really brought it to life. His insights into vocals and key elements transformed it, leading us to craft a harmonious balance.”
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Merging Unique Styles
- Mindslash: “The beauty of our collaboration lies in our different styles. While I often take the lead technically, Shadowmaw brings a darker, more minimal vibe. When our distinct worlds collide, it creates something magnificent.”
- Shadowmaw: “Working with Mindslash is seamless; we share a similar taste, and while we offer different perspectives, we manage to elevate each other creatively.”
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Balancing Groove and Aggression
- Mindslash: “In techno, less can often be more. We focus on balancing energy with space to enhance impact. The quiet moments leading into a drop can be just as powerful.”
- Shadowmaw: “My focus is on tension and release, utilizing groove elements that capture the audience. We found the right mix to ensure the track maintains its hypnotic flow while remaining energetic and powerful.”
Recognition in the Industry
The recognition from industry whales plays a vital role in shaping a producer’s confidence and direction.
- Impact of Support from Major Artists
- Mindslash: “The validation from seeing our music supported by artists like Armin Van Buuren is surreal. It’s a testament to the genuine emotions behind our music.”
- Shadowmaw: “That’s the drive for any producer—seeing your music resonate on such grand stages reassures you that you’re on the right path.”
A Shift Toward Authenticity
Public Identity and Personal Growth
The duo’s recent release also heralds a new chapter in their careers with the decision to include their faces on the artwork for the first time.
- Why Now?
- Mindslash: “This marks a mental elevation for us. We’ve grown both creatively and personally, becoming comfortable enough to fully embrace our artistic vision.”
- Shadowmaw: “We should’ve made this shift earlier, but with our evolving identity and growing recognition, it feels like the right moment.”
Bridging Industry Experiences
- Creative Decisions and Professional Background
- Mindslash: “Shadowmaw’s experience as a label owner brings a depth of understanding to our collaborations, while I focus keenly on sound design.”
- Shadowmaw: “My experience in refining tracks allows us to create crisp, effective music, and when coupled with Mindslash’s consistency, we achieve a balanced and dynamic workflow.”
Defining Peak-Time Techno
- Characteristics of Effective Tracks
- Mindslash: “Honesty and identity are key. Many producers chase trends, forgetting that music should express real emotions.”
- Shadowmaw: “Dynamics are essential, alongside clean mixing and catchy vocals. A great track needs to possess strong personality while still resonating well on festival systems.”
Imagining the Dancefloor Experience
- Visualizing Crowds During Production
- Mindslash: “I focus on evoking emotional connections through music. The moment of collective energy striking a chord is pure magic.”
- Shadowmaw: “I often picture myself in front of a big crowd, gauging if the track resonates and conveys my artistic message.”
What’s Next?
- Looking Ahead with the Collaboration
- Mindslash: “Listeners can expect more original music and collaborations. We’re devoted to a larger artistic vision centered around our sonic identity.”
- Shadowmaw: “We aim to showcase a cohesive expression of our sound that resonates in multiple settings—whether at a festival or during a workout, exhibiting our combined strengths.”
In a landscape as dynamic as techno, Mindslash and Shadowmaw are not just artists but innovators, uniting their diverse experiences to push boundaries and create intensely invigorating music. As they embark on this new energetic journey with “What We Say,” the anticipation for their future endeavors continues to grow among techno enthusiasts worldwide.
