Two of New Zealand's (and perhaps the world's) leading drum and bass acts, when you do the facts and figures on State of Mind and The Upbeats - a few similarities emerge. Both acts are DJ/production duos who can also offer full live shows for the right event. Both acts have released countless vinyl and digital singles on a bevy of respected international drum and bass record labels. Both acts have multiple full-length albums under their belts. Both acts have toured the world; and played alongside the top-tier of global drum and bass talent. Both acts have hosted radio shows, both acts dabble in soundtrack work...The list goes on..
When you pull the magnifying glass out though; as many differences as similarities emerge. State of Mind hails from Auckland. The Upbeats are based in Wellington. State of Mind works with Tiki Taane and PNC. The Upbeats record with folk and soul singers like Jess Chambers and Ned Worboys (Harbour City Electric). And again, the list goes on.
Obviously, both acts are friends, but to suggest that there isn't some form of musical rivalry lurking below the surface would be naive to say the least. This September and October, both duos will tour the country together, in a soundclash format. It won't be pretty, but it will always be wild. And at the end of every night, regardless of whose ego gets bruised, the real winner is going to be the audience. State of Mind VS The Upbeats: Soundclash - get amongst it!
