Amassing millions of career streams and a rapidly expanding global following since emerging onto the scene in 2024, Cologne-based DJ and producer NEGITIV returns with a bold new statement of intent in the form of ‘RAKATA’ — out now via Insomniac’s MUTATE Records. Reuniting with American hard dance artist GRAVEDGR following their 2025 EP ‘See You in My Dreams / Not In My League’, the single marks NEGITIV’s first official release of 2026 and her debut on the newly launched imprint, setting the tone for a defining year ahead.
Built for peak-time impact, ‘RAKATA’ merges the distinct sonic identities of NEGITIV and GRAVEDGR into a high-intensity, club-focused cut. Relentless percussion, distorted textures and high-tempo momentum drive the track forward, combining NEGITIV’s precision and controlled aggression with GRAVEDGR’s raw, hard-hitting energy. The result is a powerful fusion that pushes both artists into more extreme territory, while maintaining a clear sense of direction anchored in NEGITIV’s evolving artistic vision.
The release lands via MUTATE Records, a new hard techno label launched in early 2026 by Insomniac. Emerging from the success of Insomniac’s MUTATE party series, the label positions itself at the forefront of harder, faster electronic music, spanning hard techno, hardgroove, acid, psy and fast-rave hybrids. With a roster that includes artists such as Charlie Sparks and AZYR, MUTATE also distinguishes itself through its artist-first approach, enabling producers to retain ownership of their work while delivering uncompromising club-focused releases.
For NEGITIV (real name Negin Paknia), ‘RAKATA’ arrives at a pivotal moment. Known for her precise yet emotionally charged approach to hard techno, she continues to refine a sound that is as controlled as it is explosive. Rooted in industrial techno, schranz and high-energy rave influences, her productions and DJ sets are built for intensity; designed for spaces where energy is pushed to its absolute edge.
The release follows the announcement of her extensive ‘Me & My Demons’ Tour, which currently sees NEGITIV performing across key global venues and festivals that define the contemporary hard techno landscape. With appearances spanning Europe and Asia — including Verknipt Ziggo Dome, Terminal V Festival, Cocoricò and shows in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur — the tour marks a significant expansion of her international presence.
Alongside her growing touring footprint, NEGITIV continues to build a strong visual and digital identity, reflected in her recently released 60-minute YouTube set. Moving beyond traditional dark techno aesthetics, the project introduces a more polished, high-impact visual language, mirroring the clarity and force of her sound.
Now one of the fastest rising names on the hard techno circuit, NEGITIV is entering an exciting new phase of her career, defined by sharper artistic focus and broader international reach. ‘RAKATA’ captures that momentum in its purest form: direct, uncompromising and built for the most demanding dance floors.
