Intelligent Techno

Intelligent techno is a genre that originated in the United Kingdom in the early 1990s. It is characterized by its wide range of sounds, complex rhythms, and an emphasis on the use of electronic instruments. Musicians also incorporate advanced production techniques and synthetic sounds into their compositions. The roots of intelligent techno can be traced back to the early techno and acid house from the U.S. and Europe. In particular, the work of Detroit techno pioneers like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson was instrumental in the development of the genre. However, the UK took the dance music genre to the next level with its own spin on techno. During the late ‘80s, the UK dance music scene was dominated by rave culture and acid house. As the scene evolved, with the introduction of new styles and sounds, techno gained popularity. What set intelligent techno apart was the incorporation of more melodic and emotive sounds - atypical of other techno genres. In 1991, The Black Dog's single "Virtual" was one of the first tracks, which sounds similar to what would later be called Intelligent techno. Other artists from the UK, like Aphex Twin, Autechre, and The Orb, followed suit. Aphex Twin, arguably the most well-known artist of the genre, played a significant role in the development of intelligent techno. His music blended different genres and used a wide range of sounds. He introduced experimental and ambient sounds to the genre, making it more cerebral. In addition, artists like Richard H. Kirk, B12, and Carl Craig, were key contributors to the genre. Craig’s music was particularly noted for his powerful techno beats, while still incorporating ambient elements, hence earning him the nickname “The Techno-Moody Bluesman.” As the genre evolved, a unique atmosphere was created that made intelligent techno stand out from the rest. The music had a futuristic vibe and was characterized by its use of sweeping melodic sounds and intricate rhythms. Intelligent techno reached its apex in the mid-to-late 90s and found a growing audience amongst influential clubs such as the UK’s Ministry of Sound, which was banging out the genre’s tracks regularly. The genre reached beyond the UK and became popular in Europe and America. In 1994, The Bionaut released "Aquamarine", an early example of the genre in Germany. The release of Warp Records' Artificial Intelligence series collected some of the UK's brightest talents, garnering international attention. During this period, intelligent techno experienced commercial success, with some tracks being played regularly on mainstream radio stations. By the turn of the millennium, the scene had changed. The genre faded as new styles like electroclash, dubstep, and drum and bass, gained prominence amongst electronic aficionados. With so many new and exciting genres, intelligent techno started to sound outdated and fell out of favour with the mainstream audience. However, even as the scene changed and the sound evolved, the genre remained relevant. Fans of the genre continued to enjoy the music and continued to inspire new musicians. There has been a recent resurgence of interest in intelligent techno. Younger producers have breathed new life into the genre and brought it back to the dancefloors. Intelligent techno remains a formidable influence in techno and electronic music in general. Its distinctive sound, advanced production techniques, and futuristic vibe led the way for new genres and sounds, and its legacy can still be felt today.

Aphex Twin: Richard D. James AKA Aphex Twin, is an electronic music pioneer and a staple in intelligent Techno. His use of complex rhythms, synthetic textures and haunting melodies changed the course of electronic dance music. Autechre: Established in 1987, Autechre has been a key figure in the development of intelligent techno. Their works are known for its complex compositions that are rhythmically and structurally unpredictable. Plastikman: Richie Hawtin AKA Plastikman, is a Canadian techno producer who is known for his minimalist approach to techno music. His use of subtle sounds and textures creates a hypnotic effect and has been a significant influence in the techno genre. Squarepusher: English electronic musician Squarepusher started making music in the mid:1990s. His brand of minimal, swing:influenced and bass:heavy techno has been a key player in the intelligent techno genre. Luke Slater: is a prolific producer who has been an instrumental figure in the intelligent techno genre. His works infuse the classic techno sound with a more experimental approach that creates a distinctive futuristic feel. The Black Dog: The Black Dog is a British electronic music group and has been around since 1989. They are known for their innovative approach to mixing live instruments with classic techno sounds. Their sound has influenced many contemporary techno artists in the intelligent techno genre. Boards of Canada: Scottish duo Boards of Canada are known for their dreamy, ethereal soundscapes that incorporate field recordings, vintage synths, and drum machines. Their music is often melancholic yet hopeful, earning them a reputation for their innovative approach to composition. Biosphere: Geir Jenssen, also known as Biosphere, is a Norwegian musician and composer. He specializes in a unique blend of ambient, techno and experimental music often featuring field recordings to create an immersive sonic landscape. Kenny Larkin: is an American DJ and record producer who has been active since the early 90s. His use of intricate rhythms, atmospheric textures, and melodic leads have been highly influential in the techno genre, and specifically, in the intelligent techno genre. Carl Craig: Carl Craig is an American music producer, DJ and record label owner. He is one of the founders of the Detroit techno scene and is known for his unique approach to blending classic techno sounds with jazz and funk influences. Carl Craig is a key figure in the intelligent techno genre and has inspired many contemporary artists in the genre.

1. "Strobe" by Deadmau5 2. "Silent Shout" by The Knife 3. "Windowlicker" by Aphex Twin 4. "Archangel" by Burial 5. "Goodbye to a World" by Porter Robinson 6. "Little Fluffy Clouds" by The Orb 7. "Born Slippy" by Underworld 8. "O Superman" by Laurie Anderson 9. "Pjanoo" by Eric Prydz 10. "Cygnus X-1" by Rush 11. "Contact" by Daft Punk 12. "Third of May/Odaigahara" by Fleet Foxes 13. "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima" by Krzysztof Penderecki 14. "Toxicity" by System of a Down 15. "Closer" by Nine Inch Nails 16. "Transmission" by Joy Division 17. "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd 18. "Riders on the Storm" by The Doors 19. "Blind" by Korn 20. "Only Shallow" by My Bloody Valentine 21. "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars 22. "The Sound of Silence" by Simon & Garfunkel 23. "Let It Happen" by Tame Impala 24. "Stayin' Alive" by Bee Gees 25. "A Spoonful Weighs A Ton" by The Flaming Lips

One of the most influential books on the subject is Simon Reynolds' "Energy Flash: A Journey Through Rave Music and Dance Culture." In this book, Reynolds describes Intelligent Techno as "techno that puts a premium on being smart, intricate, and sonically sophisticated." He credits artists like Aphex Twin, Autechre, and Boards of Canada with the creation of this subgenre, which he argues moves beyond the dancefloor to become a more cerebral experience. Similarly, in his book "Beyond Techno: Explorations in Sonic Anthropology," author and DJ Matt Bower describes Intelligent Techno as "a style of electronic music that has evolved to become more complex, more intelligent and often more experimental." He argues that this genre is often associated with a more introspective and cerebral approach to dance music, and its artists often prioritize experimentation over danceability. One notable musician who has spoken about Intelligent Techno is Aphex Twin himself. In an interview with The Guardian in 2014, he discussed how his music has evolved over the years into what he calls "braindance." He explained that "braindance" is a term he came up with to describe music that "makes you feel like you're not just listening to a piece of music, but you're actually a part of it." He went on to describe how his focus on creating a more immersive listening experience has led to the development of this subgenre. Another influential quote about Intelligent Techno comes from music journalist David Stubbs. In his book "Mars by 1980: The Story of Electronic Music," Stubbs writes that "Intelligent Techno is the perfect name for a genre that is both deeply thoughtful and rhythmically complex." He goes on to describe how this subgenre has been influenced by the technological advancements of the late 20th century, and how it explores the relationship between humans and machines. In his book "Posthuman Rap: Listening to Hip Hop in the Age of Extinction," author and DJ Justin Adams Burton provides a more critical perspective on Intelligent Techno. He argues that this subgenre often perpetuates a "myth of posthuman transcendence" which suggests that humans can escape their earthly bodies by becoming one with machines. While he acknowledges the artistic value of this music, he cautions against overlooking the potentially problematic implications of its messaging.

One of the significant external forces that helped create Intelligent Techno was the rise of technology in the late 1980s. Artists were experimenting with new and innovative ways to create sounds using analog and digital synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines. These evolving technologies facilitated the creation of more intricate and nuanced sounds, allowing artists to develop a unique and sophisticated sound that became the hallmark of Intelligent Techno. Another significant factor that contributed to the emergence of Intelligent Techno was the cultural context of the time. The late 1980s were marked by a sense of dissatisfaction with the mainstream culture and the desire for something new, fresh, and innovative. This attitude was particularly pronounced within the dance music scene, where artists and fans were actively seeking new sounds and ways of expression. In these circumstances, Intelligent Techno offered a distinct alternative to the more mainstream Techno sound, resonating with a growing audience looking for a deeper and more reflective experience. Several notable record labels were influential in the development and dissemination of Intelligent Techno. Among them, Warp Records played a particularly crucial role in the genre's progression. Founded in 1989, the label became a hub for some of the nascent Intelligent Techno artists, thanks to its commitment to experimental, unconventional music. Warp's roster included seminal acts like Aphex Twin, Autechre, and Boards of Canada, who all played a significant role in defining what Intelligent Techno was and where it was heading. The role of music journalists and DJs was also influential in shaping and promoting Intelligent Techno. Music critics and journalists like Simon Reynolds, who were deeply engaged in the emerging electronic music scene, were among the genre's earliest champions. Their writings helped to articulate and define the genre, introduce new artists and releases to a broader audience and create a community around the emerging sound. Initially, Intelligent Techno was an underground movement, but it gradually gained popularity in the early 1990s and beyond. As it grew, the genre fragmented into different directions, with some artists incorporating more accessible and mainstream sounds, while others pushed the genre's boundaries even further. However, the core principles of intelligence and introspection remained at the heart of the genre, and new artists continue to explore these concepts, merging them with the latest technological advancements.