Since launching in 2022, Indira Paganotto’s boundary-pushing label, ARTCORE, has become a host of DJs/producers from different backgrounds who represent their signature sound via a myriad of singles, EPs, and VA releases. Whilst they may hail from a contrast of cultures, all of those featured share the same intense drive and burning passion as Paganotto herself.
The second entry to the ARTCORE DUO series in 2025 remains true to the fresh format of featuring two separate artists on one EP. Indira has re-enlisted the services of two label favorites for its next dual release. Welcoming back Belgium’s Marhu, whose wonderfully eclectic debut ‘Bhajan’ EP landed last September, and Italy’s Valentinø, who returns following his ‘Space Travel’ contribution on ARTCORE OffSonar VA Vol.2.
The artists sat for a chat in our latest series, Artists Asking Artists, to discuss the release and their experiences working together.
Mahru asks Valentinø
What is the story behind this new duo EP? What was your idea / creative process with these tracks?
I’m very happy to make this EP with you, as always, I tried to find inspiration in inserting melodies, a detail that is vocal, in this case, a whistle. that can capture the attention of the listener. At this moment in my career, I feel free to express everything that comes to mind.
What do you like most in psytrance?
With Psy-trance, I particularly love the low kick that you find in most tracks, also the genre in itself gives multiple possibilities and extends my creative vision, unlike other genres that still have limitations and a well-defined structure
What are you most excited about this year?
Definitely my debut on one of the stages that I have always dreamed of in life, Tomorrowland! I could not have taken this step without the ARTCORE family. The future projects are many and very big, for me this year will be a real achievement in all aspects.
How do you keep the balance between booker at Mantra, producer, DJ, and personal life?
Everything you have listed is very demanding. The Mantra as you know, is my creation and it was what allowed me to take a step into the music world, and if I am here, it is especially thanks to that. I divide all the work spreading it out throughout the week, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday I’m in the studio during the evening hours, while on Thursday and Friday, I dedicate myself to Mantra bookings and logistics and organization for the weekend ahead. In my spare time, I love to do sports, the gym to be precise, physical activity is the only time where I can switch off my brain a bit and dedicate myself entirely to myself. It may seem obvious, but my private life revolves around music, entirely.
As a DJ, What is your sweet spot: short or extended set?
Both in the short and long term, they are not a weak point, I found myself doing sets of an hour as well as 8 hours in a club in Berlin many years ago. I would not be able to fully express myself, without having the audience in front of me. I love playing in front of an excited and enthusiastic audience, that is having fun, where I can express what I am feeling in that moment, an emotional/artistic connection.
Valentinø asks Marhu
What do you think about this EP that we will release together on ARTCORE? Are you happy with this collab?
Absolutely! Creating this duo EP was such a great idea. It’s my first time releasing a duo EP and doing it with you feels 100% right. Our hybrid style—blending psytrance and techno—brings something fresh to the scene. Joining forces makes us stronger, and I truly cherish the support, kindness, and respect within this team. Can’t wait to drop these bombs!
Your productions are mostly PSY, when you perform do you like to mix different genres, or do you stick to the psytrance genre?
While psy-techno is my main style, my sets are always hybrid. I play about 75% of my own tracks and edits, but I also dig deep daily for new music. I love blending in hyper-trance, classic trance, and other influences to keep my sets dynamic and fresh.
Do you prefer to play in large contexts like festivals, or do you prefer to perform in something more intimate with a fan, like clubs?
Both have their magic! I love the insane energy of intimate clubs, but I’m definitely more of a festival artist. Performing with a full light show adds something truly special to the experience.
What’s the story behind Marhu? How did you get noticed by the ARTCORE family?
I got noticed by Indira’s team by sending my demos. She receives hundreds of emails daily, so when she personally got back to me saying my sound was unique, I knew it was meant to be! It took years to define the Marhu sound—starting with dark acid techno and evolving into my signature psy-techno style, infused with elements that truly represent me.
In your productions, do you have any specific inspiration, or do you let yourself be carried away by your feelings?
My sound blends psytrance and techno with influences from Eastern cultures, incorporating instruments like the Japanese shamisen and Indian bansuri flute. I’m really obsessed with flutes ha-ha. In general,I love using real instruments that aren’t typical in rave music—it brings a unique energy. Sometimes, inspiration strikes from a vocal, a theme, or just an instrument, like in Vida Loka. I love world music inspiration
Grab your copy here.
The post Artists Asking Artists: Marhu, Valentinø – ARTCORE DUO II [ARTCORE Records] appeared first on Magnetic Magazine.