Disclaimer:
This FAQ was written back when Luc and I were running the Metal Punk Tape Exchange. As of 2025, we've handed it off to a new team in Maine, USA—still going strong and now entering its 26th round.

This is the old version we used to share. The core rules likely haven’t changed much, but no guarantees. Long live the tape-trading spirit!

And before you get started on your next tape, here are some visuals that I made for previous rounds.

What is the Metal Punk Tape Exchange?

The Metal Punk Tape Exchange, also known as MPTX, is a global mixtape-trading community established in 2019 by Luc and Max, both veterans of the late 20th Century Metal/Punk cassette wars. To date, we've successfully completed 23 rounds of exchanges, primarily conducted on social networks. We're on the verge of reaching a significant milestone – our 1000th tape recorded for the exchange.

How do I sign up?

It's easy to join! When we announce a new round, simply comment on any of our Instagram posts to express your interest. Once you've done that, you're in! After registering, be sure to fill out our online form to share your musical preferences and help us pair you with the right person. One important note: Before signing up, double-check that your tape deck is in working order and properly set up to record sound from any audio source onto a cassette tape.

So when's the next round?

Round 24 takes place in January/February 2024. We do a new round every 6 weeks or so.

I live in America, can I sign in?

Absolutely! You can participate from anywhere. However, please note that we're currently unable to facilitate international trades due to the substantial increase in postal costs. Instead, you'll be matched with someone within your geographical zone: European Union, North America, or United Kingdom.

Wait, you said "internationally"... does that mean I can participate if I live in *insert country of your choice*?

Yes, you're absolutely right! Anyone from any country around the world is welcome. In fact, we're eager to have members from every corner of the globe, including Asia, Africa, and beyond. Please help spread the word and encourage others to join!

What happens once I've commented on a post to let you know I'm in?

Fantastic! Have you completed our online form? You can find the active link in our Instagram bio. It's crucial to fill out this form as it helps us learn more about you, your musical preferences, address, and contact details. This information is now more important than ever because we aim to match you with someone who shares similar interests. You will receive each other's info in the mail and both of you will then trade a tape.

Is there a special theme for each round?

Each round comes with an optional theme to provide a starting point if you'd like some inspiration. Previous themes have included "Blood," "UFOs/Aliens," "Life," "Places," and "Night/Day." For Round 24, the theme is "Seasons." While some find it helpful, others prefer to go with their own ideas – the choice is entirely yours!
Regardless of the theme, it's a good idea to begin working on your mixtape as soon as you sign up. Sometimes things take longer than expected, and you wouldn't want to miss our deadline, would you?

My mixtape is done, what should I do now?

Take a few high-quality pictures of your mixtape, ensuring the track list is legible.  Send these images to us via direct message (DM) or email. We require several clear, high-resolution pictures of the entire cassette, including the j-card and tracklist.

How do I ship? Tracking or not?

When shipping your mixtape, it's essential to use a tracked shipping method. Whether through postal services or courier, having a tracking number ensures that we can monitor the shipment's progress. Please provide us with the tracking number, as it will be valuable in case any issues arise during the shipping process.

OK, one month time is more than enough. Think I’ll sit on it for a while before I turn the tape recorder on…

Please, don’t wait until the last minute to finish your tape. Starting early allows for any unexpected delays or creative inspirations, ensuring you can meet the deadline comfortably. So, while you have the time, consider getting a head start on your mixtape sooner rather than later. Additionally, we repost tapes as they progress on our Instagram account. This not only keeps the algorithm content but also ensures that our updates reach you effectively. Stay tuned for the reposts to stay in the loop!

Are all musical genres/styles allowed?

Well, technically, yes. However, remember, you're crafting this tape for someone specific. You've had access to their questionnaire, giving you a rough idea of their tastes and what they might enjoy. Perhaps you want to share your latest discoveries or create a compilation of solid golden hits—it's entirely up to you. Yet, keeping true to our name, let's stick to Metal and/or Punk. While we're not strict on subgenres, anything vaguely amplified or related is welcome. And considering the diversity of subgenres, there's room for everyone's satisfaction.A crucial point: no Nazi content, please. While Black Metal and Oi! are acceptable, let's steer clear of NSBM or any racist nonsense. This rule has ruffled a few feathers, but we're committed to avoiding any gray areas. In simple terms, bands openly promoting hate toward any ethnic group should not be included on your tape. The world’s already a miserable place as it is, no need for further aggravation.

But I’m no expert! My tape is going to suck!

Absolutely not! We welcome participants of all backgrounds, from die-hard enthusiasts with decades of punk knowledge to absolute beginners and newcomers to the scene. The key requirement is putting your heart into creating a meaningful mixtape. And if you're still uncertain, a fail-proof mix of one side Discharge and one side Slayer is sure to bring joy to everyone, haha! The focus is on the passion and effort you invest in sharing music with your tape exchange partner.

I hate Metal-Punk-Reggae-(insert genre here), how do I know I won’t get a tape full of music I don’t like?

Well... sorry, but you won't. We understand that preferences vary, and while we do our best to match participants based on their musical tastes, we can't guarantee a perfect match. Keep in mind that the essence of this exchange lies in the effort and thought put into creating a mixtape for someone else. Just remember, your match has taken the time to curate a selection and send it your way, which, in itself, is a rewarding and thoughtful gesture, don't you agree?

I see all those people sending shitloads of gifts and guitar pedals and the keys to their houses along with their tapes, do I have to do that as well?

No. The core of this exchange is centered around sending and receiving mixtapes – a one-to-one exchange. While gifts and creative packaging are encouraged and appreciated, the essential requirement is the inclusion of actual cassette tapes. How you choose to enhance the experience beyond the cassette is entirely up to you. The main focus is on the exchange of music in the form of tangible tapes.

I only have a 60-minute tape. Is that ok?

Most lengths should work just fine, but it's advisable to save that 20-minute tape for another occasion. If you're using dead stock (unused old tapes), make sure they're still in good condition and can play properly. Nobody enjoys a muffled, hissy cassette.

Do I have to proprint my j-card? What if I'm no graphics designer?

Printing tapes is common, but it's not mandatory. Some of us don’t have access to a printer or just want to keep it truly old school. Why not draw your own then? Whether it's a professionally printed design or a personally crafted illustration, the choice is entirely yours. We appreciate both hand-drawn art and fancy graphics – the key is putting your heart into it.

OK, I made my tape but it’s way past deadline now. What should I do if I’m late?

Come on, we KNOW you're running late because we haven't heard from you yet. Get in touch! Let us know how late you'll be and when you can ship your tape. Avoid reaching out directly to your exchange partner; let us handle that part. You've got a grace period of 1 or 2 days past the deadline. If we don't hear back from you by then, unfortunately, you'll be banned from participating in future exchanges.

I haven’t received anything! What’s next?

Hang tight a bit longer. We're aware of delays, and chances are, you've been informed. However, post offices can be unpredictable, especially given the various challenges like post-Covid, Brexit, new customs rules, and the general chaos. This is precisely why we've made tracked shipping mandatory now.
If nothing shows up in your mailbox a few weeks after the deadline, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We'll work together to figure out the best solution. Your patience and understanding during these uncertain times are greatly appreciated.

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