Synthetik Minds is not a group in the traditional sense, but a curatorial collective and event brand born from the Los Angeles underground techno ecosystem. Centered on the idea of “connection over consumption,” the platform breeds a cathartic atmosphere and acts as a conduit between culture and community. Inspired by a personal reset, founder Marco Sgalbazzini transformed a period of uncertainty into a renewed sense of purpose, aiming to push the LA techno scene forward. Grounded in the value of genuine human connection, he recognized the power of community and sought to reshape the techno narrative through authenticity. The ethos was simple: contribute to LA techno through honest storytelling, immersive experiences, and focusing on the art itself. With a philosophy in place, Synthetik Minds conjured the human spirit within the electronics.

Synthetik Minds emerged in 2017 as a part of the new wave of LA’s techno identity in the 2010s. At that time, Sgalbazzini had just moved to California and began taking part in the scene; writing editorials for 6AM. However, something was ineffably missing. In search of clarity, he did what many do: he set out on a journey and looked inward. During a four-month trip across Europe, he attended the Amsterdam Dance Event, where he encountered a vision of the future that would ultimately shape his path. Reflecting on his period, he said,

“That experience changed everything. The level of music, the intention behind the events, and the quality of production opened my eyes to what this culture could truly be. More importantly, I had moments on the dance floors that genuinely shifted how I saw myself and the world around me. I fully understood the emotional and transformative power of techno.” 

Soon afterwards, Sgalbazzini returned to Los Angeles with restored ambition. Eager to contribute, he took more risk: became a proactive voice in the community, invested his personal time to help with social media and booking for 6AM events, which at the time were called WORK by 6AM, and simultaneously built Synthetik Minds. 

The early years of Synthetik Minds revealed a distinct and resonant voice. Rather than expanding too quickly, Sgalbazzini focused his attention on the music and people. Each decision was intentional, yet instinctive, and over time, it became clear that he was uplifting the community by fostering a strong sense of morale.

Sgalbazzini's methodology centered on creating contrast. At the time when the city leaned towards fast, digestible visibility and commercialization, he moved in the opposite direction - slowed things down, embraced the moment, and held onto tradition. When asked about his vision, he said,

“Synthetik Minds reflects a different facet of that vision, but the core remains the same: creating spaces where the music leads, where presence matters, and where the culture is experienced rather than performed.”

Each contribution by Sgalbazzini paved the way for what would soon become a partnership with Jia Wang. Driven by their belief in one another, the duo used their shared passion to collaborate as true event partners, initially known as “WORK by 6AM and Synthetik Minds,” and soon thereafter simply called “WORK,” a collaborative platform that united local talent, seasoned veterans, and live acts. The biodiverse melting pot of WORK’s movement unleashed a feral force that was felt in and outside of the warehouse.

After years of curating dance floors, Sgalbazzini and Wang recognized the importance of supporting the music itself. Naturally, the creation of their label, Synthetik Sounds manifested; bringing together both worlds: Synthetik Minds and 6AM. Sgalbazzini mentioned,

“The inspiration came from wanting to give artists a platform that reflects the same values as the events: depth, patience, and intention. It is less about feeding the algorithm and more about creating a space where sound can exist without compromise.”

Their exploration of the dark corners of deep, moody, hypnotic techno allowed Synthetik Sounds to become a vessel through which artists could amplify their voices.

Sgalbazzini’s love for techno is evident through his attention to detail and dedicated frequency. By transcending his confusion into purpose, he placed trust in the community, found organic connections, and tapped into the magic of music. While Synthetik Minds is his brainchild and WORK is his love child, both entities offer an independent, influential burst of energy united by a common denominator: sleepless nights of passionate work. 

In a scene defined by sleepless momentum, they remain in constant motion. This month, we illuminate the tireless energy, late-night devotion, and invisible dedication driving everything behind 6AM, SYNTHETIK MINDS, and WORK.

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@auburn_sky @7isheav3n @jny0fficial @subjekmedia @marssandoval @nightmovesme