Tech house
Origins and Characteristics
Tech house is a subgenre of electronic dance music that combines the rhythmic and groove-filled elements of house music with the sophisticated and intricate production techniques of techno. The genre emerged during the early 1990s in the United Kingdom and has since gained popularity worldwide.
Tech house is characterized by its fusion of the soulful and melodic elements of house with the darker, more minimalistic tendencies of techno. The music often features a four-to-the-floor beat, a tempo typically between 120 and 130 beats per minute (BPM), and a prominent bassline. The genre also frequently incorporates synthetic, digital sounds and effects, such as reverb, delay, and modulation, to create a futuristic, technological atmosphere.
Evolution and Influence
The evolution of tech house can be traced back to the late 1980s and early 1990s, when DJs and producers began experimenting with the fusion of house and techno. This was a time of significant innovation in electronic music, with artists pushing the boundaries of what was possible with digital production techniques. The result was a new style of music that was both danceable and sophisticated, appealing to both club-goers and music aficionados alike.
Tech house has had a significant influence on the broader landscape of electronic dance music. It has helped to bridge the gap between the more commercial, mainstream styles of house and the underground, experimental world of techno. The genre has also paved the way for a number of other subgenres, including minimal techno, deep house, and progressive house.
Notable Artists and Labels
There are many notable artists and labels within the tech house scene. Some of the most influential artists include Carl Cox, Richie Hawtin, and John Digweed, all of whom have made significant contributions to the development and popularization of the genre.
In terms of labels, Defected Records, Toolroom Records, and Hot Creations are among the most prominent in the tech house scene. These labels have been instrumental in promoting tech house music and nurturing new talent within the genre.
Tech House in the Modern Era
In the modern era, tech house continues to be a popular and influential genre within the world of electronic dance music. The genre has evolved to incorporate elements of other styles, such as dubstep, trap, and future house, resulting in a diverse and dynamic musical landscape.
Despite its evolution, the core characteristics of tech house – its danceable rhythms, sophisticated production techniques, and technological soundscape – remain at the heart of the genre. As a result, tech house continues to be a staple of club nights and music festivals around the world.