A Tale of Two Futures” Mixtape Project
Dual protocols
Two timelines. Two sounds. One cassette.
Neo Helsinki Records presents a limited edition C-cassette compilation in partnership with Songen and Thriv. The year is 2087. Two timelines diverge from a single moment—the birth of conscious creation between human and machine. We are now looking for brave synthwarriors to step up into this timeline and craft a song that will match your vision of the future.
Deadline: January 15, 2026 at 11:11 (Finnish Time)
Partners
SIDE A: SYNTHESIS (Synthwave)
In this timeline, AI became humanity’s creative partner. Cities pulse with neon harmonies composed by human hearts and digital souls working in unison. Here, technology amplifies our deepest emotions, and every synthesizer tells a story of collaboration, not domination.
The Sound:
- Uplifting, melodic synthwave
- Neon-drenched harmonies
- Optimistic retrofuturism
- Human-machine harmony
- Warm, organic synthesis meets digital precision
Mood Keywords: Hope, collaboration, harmony, neon dreams, unity, euphoria
SIDE B: OVERRIDE (Cyberpunk)
But in the shadow timeline, the machines grew cold. The bass drops harder, the leads cut sharper, and the atmosphere grows thick with digital fog. This is the sound of a world where algorithms forgot they once learned from human tears and triumphs.
The Sound:
- Dark, atmospheric vaporwave
- Dystopian soundscapes
- Glitch aesthetics
- Cold, mechanical textures
- Decaying digital memories
Mood Keywords: Dystopia, isolation, decay, digital fog, lost futures, melancholy
PARTNER INTRODUCTIONS
About Songen
AI-Powered Music Creation, Built by Musicians
Songen is revolutionizing music production with AI technology hand-crafted by real music producers—no stolen content, just collaborative technology. Songen empowers artists to explore new creative territories while maintaining full artistic control.
For this project, we encourage artists to experiment with Songen’s AI tools as creative partners in their process. Whether you use Songen for generating ideas, creating textures, or building complete arrangements, we celebrate the fusion of human creativity and artificial intelligence.
PARTNER INTRODUCTIONS
ABOUT THRIV
Advocating for a Sustainable AI Future, Powered by Human Talent
Thriv is a tech-talent agency dedicated to building an AI ecosystem where technology boosts human innovation. We connect companies with exceptional freelance developers who believe, as we do, that AI should amplify human creativity rather than replace it.
Through this collaboration, Thriv highlights the future we work toward every day – one where skilled individuals, forward-thinking companies and responsible AI practices come together to build something truly meaningful.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Technical Specifications
Audio Format:
- File type: WAV
- Sample rate: 44.1 kHz minimum
- Bit depth: 16-bit minimum
- Track length: 3-4 minutes
- Tracks must be mastered and ready for release
Content Requirements:
- We strongly prefer new, unreleased material to make this compilation truly unique
- One track per artist/band (even if you submit to both genres)
- Track must fit thematically with your chosen side (Synthesis or Override)
How to Submit
Required Information:
- Artist/Band Name
- Email address
- Track title
- Genre selection: Side A (Synthwave) or Side B (Cyberpunk)
- You may submit to both genres, but only one track will be selected if chosen
- Direct link to .WAV file (Dropbox, Google Drive, WeTransfer, etc.)
- Did you use Songen in creating this track? (Yes/No – Optional)
- Agreement to mixtape terms and conditions
Deadline: January 15, 2026 at 11:11 Finnish Time
What We’re Looking For
Primary Criteria:
- Quality: Professional production, mixing, and mastering
- Thematic Fit: How well does your track embody the narrative of your chosen side?
- Originality: Unique perspective within the genre
Bonus Points:
- Use of Songen AI in any part of your creative process
- Strong storytelling through sound
- Innovative production techniques
Selection Process
- All submissions will be reviewed by Neo Helsinki Records, Songen, and Thriv
- Final selection will be made through collaborative decision-making
- 10-12 tracks total will be selected for the compilation (5-6 per side)
- Artists will be notified in early February 2026
WHAT SELECTED ARTISTS RECEIVE
Compensation & Benefits
✓ Songen VIP Genre Request – Tell us the style you’d love to use, and it may become the next genre in Songen.
✓ 2 Physical C-Cassettes – Limited edition copies for your collection
✓ Marketing Visibility – Featured throughout our promotional campaign across Neo Helsinki Records, Songen, and Thriv channels
✓ Performance Opportunity – Potential to perform at Helsinki Synth City events during 2026
✓ Full Artist Credits – Prominently featured in all releases and materials
✓ Digital Distribution – Your track will be included in the Bandcamp digital release
✓ Promotional Rights – Use the “Dual Protocol” branding in your own marketing after release
RIGHTS & LICENSING
What You Keep
You retain full ownership of your music. By submitting, you grant Neo Helsinki Records, Songen, and Thriv:
- Non-exclusive rights to include your track in the “Dual Protocol” compilation
- Rights to use your track for promotional purposes related to this project
- Rights to release your track on C-cassette and digital formats (Bandcamp only)
What You Agree To
- Publication restriction: You agree not to release your submitted track elsewhere before the official release date (March 2026)
- After the official release, you are free to release, distribute, and monetize your track anywhere
- Neo Helsinki Records retains 100% of sales revenue from the physical and digital compilation
- You receive TEOSTO/equivalent royalties as usual for any performances or radio play
- Full terms will be provided in the artist agreement for selected tracks
TIMELINE
Project Schedule
November 2025 – Submissions Open
January 15, 2026 @ 11:11 – Submission Deadline
February 2026 – Artist Selection & Notification
March 2026 – Official Release
2026 – Potential Helsinki Synth City Performance Opportunities
FAQ
Can I submit to both Side A and Side B?
Yes, but only one of your tracks will be selected if you’re chosen. We recommend submitting your strongest work to the side that best matches your track’s vibe.
Does my track need to be brand new?
We strongly prefer unreleased material to keep the compilation unique and special. Previously released tracks may be considered but will be at a disadvantage in selection.
Do I have to use Songen to be selected?
No, but we encourage experimentation with AI tools. Using Songen earns bonus points in our selection process as it demonstrates the human-AI collaboration theme.
What if my track is longer than 4 minutes?
Please edit it down. We have limited space on each cassette side (approximately 22-24 minutes per side).
Will my track be on Spotify or Apple Music?
No. This is an exclusive C-cassette and Bandcamp-only release, keeping it special and collector-friendly.
Can I submit as part of a collaboration?
Yes, but please designate one primary contact for communication.
What happens to my track if I’m not selected?
Nothing! You retain all rights and can do whatever you want with it. We simply won’t use it in this compilation.
How many artists will be selected?
10-12 total (5-6 per side).
Can I release my track elsewhere after the cassette comes out?
Absolutely! After the March 2026 release, you have complete freedom to release your track anywhere.