In an era where electronic music often feels caught between nostalgic reverence and futuristic ambition, Mild Minds (aka Benjamin David) has found a sweet spot that somehow manages to be both. His latest single “I NEED U,” released via ODESZA’s Foreign Family Collective, serves as a tantalizing preview of his sophomore album GEMINI, and it’s a masterclass in emotional electronic music that doesn’t sacrifice its club credentials.
The GRAMMY-nominated producer has come a long way since his 2020 debut “MOOD,” which marked his emergence from behind-the-scenes production work. Where that album felt like an artist testing the waters of public visibility, “I NEED U” showcases a creator fully comfortable in the spotlight. The track’s luminous chord progressions and carefully crafted vocal elements create a sonic landscape that feels both intimate and expansive, like reading a love letter in a packed club.
GEMINI, set for release on February 21st, promises to be an ambitious exploration of the space between digital and organic sounds. David draws from an eclectic palette of influences, mixing turn-of-the-century underground club beats with chopped 2000s R&B samples and early trance elements. It’s a heady combination that could easily become overwhelming, but if “I NEED U” is any indication, Mild Minds has found the perfect balance.
The album’s visual identity mirrors its sonic ambitions, presenting a world where transparent digital screens frame nature scenes – a striking metaphor for the album’s exploration of humanity in our increasingly digital age. It’s refreshing to see an electronic artist engage with these themes without falling into easy dystopian clichés or shallow techno-optimism.
If “I NEED U” represents the future of electronic music, we’re in good hands. Mild Minds has managed to create something that feels both forward-thinking and deeply human – no small feat in a genre often criticized for prioritizing technical prowess over emotional connection. February 21st can’t come soon enough.
