Tale of Us: towards a separation?
In recent months, fans of Tale of Us have been speculating about the future of the iconic duo, Matteo Milleri (aka Anyma) and Carmine Conte (aka MRAK). Despite their central role in the melodic techno scene and the global success of their Afterlife label, several signs suggest that a split might be imminent.
Signs of Change
Afterlife Calendar: Following the much-anticipated Anyma’s Sphere shows and the Afterlife Tulum event, the Afterlife schedule for 2025 appears strangely empty. In the past, Afterlife’s events were announced well in advance, but there are currently no shows planned beyond Tulum. This has raised eyebrows, especially since 2023 had a full calendar locked in early in the year.
Anyma's solo career: Matteo Milleri, under the Anyma alias, continues his solo rise with the The End of Genesys project, which could mark the conclusion of the narrative started with the Genesys album. Anyma’s solo appearances at major festivals like Sziget and Kappa Futur Festival in 2025—without Tale of Us or MRAK—further fuel rumors of a shift in direction.
MRAK’s creative silence: In contrast, Carmine Conte has maintained a lower profile. There are no indications of a major project in the works, nor is there any involvement from him in Sphere, the groundbreaking multimedia show that has propelled Anyma to global prominence.
No new Afterlife album: The absence of a joint musical project is another indication of creative divergence. With no new Afterlife album on the horizon, it seems the focus has shifted to individual pursuits.
Another key indicator is the absence of Tale of Us from the initial lineups of major summer festivals in 2025. Where the duo was once a staple headliner, we now see only Anyma, with no mention of MRAK or a joint set. This shift seems to underscore Matteo Milleri's increasingly individualistic trajectory, supported by his cutting-edge visual technologies and multimedia branding.
The potential separation of Tale of Us raises questions about the future of the Afterlife label, which has become synonymous with immersive experiences and top-tier melodic techno. The lack of programming beyond Tulum could signal a transitional phase or a redefinition of the brand’s identity. If the duo does go their separate ways, Afterlife might evolve into an extension of Anyma’s artistic vision, while MRAK would have the freedom to explore alternative paths.
It’s possible that what we’re witnessing is part of a larger, radical plan. Tale of Us, known for their ability to surprise, may have something unexpected in store—whether as a duo or as individual artists. Perhaps “The End of Genesys” is not just the conclusion of Anyma’s narrative but also the closing of an era for Tale of Us, paving the way for new artistic directions.
The future of Tale of Us and Afterlife remains uncertain, but the signs point to a profound transformation. If a split does happen, it would mark the end of an era for melodic techno but could also lead to two distinct and innovative artistic journeys. Fans can only wait and watch, bracing for whatever 2025 has in store.
