mau5trap has started accepting demo submissions for We Are Friends Vol. 13.
Since launching in 2012, the compilation series has helped introduce many promising electronic music artists. Now, it is looking for its next discovery.
Long before streaming algorithms dominated music discovery, fans often shared their favorite songs through handmade mixtapes and burned CDs.
That same spirit inspired We Are Friends, the long-running compilation series created by deadmau5’s label.
Since its debut in 2012, each edition has served as a carefully curated collection of emerging artists.
Rather than relying on algorithms, the series reflects the label’s own musical taste and creative instincts.
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We Are Friends Has Launched Many Careers
Over the years, We Are Friends has become an important platform for discovering new talent.
REZZ first appeared on Volume 4, while the late producer i_o made his debut on Volume 7.
Earlier editions also introduced artists such as ATTLAS, BlackGummy, and No Mana before they became widely recognized.
Volume 6 also featured Rinzen.
He later released an official remix of deadmau5’s “Not Exactly.” The track attracted support from Tiësto, Armin van Buuren, and Above & Beyond.
That recognition further elevated his growing reputation.
mau5trap Prioritizes Taste Over Algorithms
While recommendation algorithms have become standard across streaming platforms, mau5trap continues to rely on human judgment when selecting music.
Jimi Frew, who oversees A&R and creative strategy for the label, said the selection process extends far beyond data.
He explained that the team focuses on musical taste, timing, culture, instinct, and whether a track genuinely belongs in the mau5trap catalog.
The label is now accepting submissions for We Are Friends Vol. 13 through an open demo call.
In its message to producers, mau5trap acknowledges that many artists worry their demos disappear without receiving attention.
The label emphasizes that its small team personally listens to every submission, although the review process naturally takes time.
Because of that commitment, mau5trap encourages artists to submit only completed tracks that are fully ready for release rather than unfinished ideas.
mau5trap hopes We Are Friends Vol. 13 will introduce the next wave of electronic music talent.
The compilation series has built that reputation for more than a decade. The new edition aims to carry that legacy forward.
