NJ’s Creative Momentum Grows as MadMinds Prepares for Another Standout Showcase
If you weren’t at The Underground in Somerville on January 26th for MadMinds Takeover, I feel bad for you. Straight up, it was one of the best events I’ve been to in a long time. From the second I stepped through the doors, I could feel the energy buzzing. The space was completely sold out, and yet somehow still felt personal. Real talk it wasn’t just a show, it was a cultural moment.
MadMinds delivered more than a showcase. It was a community experience. The performers weren’t just talented, they were hungry. Every artist brought raw energy, and the crowd showed them love like family. It was a reminder that independent talent in Jersey isn’t just alive — it’s thriving.
Now, to keep it 100 the lighting wasn’t the most extravagant. It was simple, but it worked. It actually gave the room a raw, intimate feel that made it all more human. The sound system leaned heavy on the bass, which sometimes overpowered the vocals, but honestly? Nobody cared. The vibe in that room was too powerful to be thrown off by a little rumble.
One of the standout moments was Ayoo Chill’s live podcast, where artists sat down for interviews right after hitting the stage. It gave fans a deeper look into the stories behind the music, and made the whole experience feel layered and intentional. That kind of format doesn’t just highlight talent — it builds a platform around it.
Vendors were dope, too, from streetwear brands to handmade art, the creativity extended way beyond the stage. I grabbed a bite from the bar, and while I wasn’t expecting much, the food was honestly fire and hit the spot. The drinks weren’t overpriced either and were mixed well
By the end of the night, people weren’t just clapping — they were connecting. Artists, fans, creatives, entrepreneurs, all in one room, building something together. That’s the magic MadMinds is creating.
Now with April 25th on the way, MadMinds is gearing up for something even bigger. Back at The Underground, Friday night, with an afterparty, vendors, and a stacked lineup, it feels like they’re setting the stage for a true takeover.
If January was the spark, April might be the explosion.
