We previously featured XPQ-21 for his existential commentary on determinism with the high concept single, Machines, so when we heard that the visionary artist was back with Where Minds Collide, we were curious and couldn’t wait to listen and share our experience.
Establishing the mood with an immersive, meditative energy before unleashing a cerebral and industrial bassline with astral electronica nuances, XPQ-21 opens Where Minds Collide with intrigue, dimensionality and the spoken prose, “We dance until the break of dawn…”
We are immediately captivated by the instrumental mastery, and philosophical depth of the piece. The soundscape is dynamic and engaging, with brief sirens building with a pulsating beat, lending itself to a futuristic, cinematic vibe. Needless to say, we are obsessed.
The narration, from the artist also known as Jeyênne, evolves into melodic lyricism, with eye-opening and thought-provoking constructs. Speaking on the message of the release, XPQ-21 exclaims, “WE ARE AT A TURNING POINT.”
The talented creator goes on to confess, “Where Minds Collide is about an AI that is rapidly taking over the world. Two systems and philosophies are locked in conflict, and we humans are ill-prepared for the unfolding scenario. Quite peculiar, considering we are the architects of this very development.”
XPQ-21 elaborates, “In a matter of a few years, reliance on AI will become indispensable. Anyone suggesting otherwise is being naive. We are on a collision course with AI and these two systems, and the battle for survival is imminent.”
The song switches up with female vocals from Laura Friedland as she sings, “Hit me up in a hundred years…”, tapping into a more ethereal, timeless and cosmic nature. The finale of the song feels somewhat transcendental, and includes an electronic horn sound, which will no doubt invite everyone to the dance floor.
It is no surprise to learn that Jeyênne is known as one of the greats in the rave and techno scene, and has toured with Prodigy and Moby, and played at festivals with some of the greats, including Carl Cox, Richie Hawtin, and Ellen Allien.
We love what Jeyênne has to offer with XPQ-21, and eagerly anticipate the release of the accompanying music video, which we can preview via the talented creator’s Instagram. In the meantime, we have added Where Minds Collide to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our brand new TRIPPY playlist, whilst we continue to stream XPQ-21‘s wider discography, including Machines.