Dub Techno

A brief history of Dub Techno

Dub Techno is an electronic music genre that emerged in the late 1990s. It is a combination of Dub reggae and Techno music. The genre is characterized by its heavy use of reverb and echo effects. Dub Techno is a unique aural experience that has grown in popularity over the years.

The roots of Dub Techno can be traced back to the 1970s when Jamaican Dub producers began remixing and manipulating tracks to create a new sound. Dub Techno embraced this Dub production technique and added elements of Techno music. The early pioneers of the genre included Berlin-based Basic Channel and Chain Reaction labels.

The Basic Channel duo, Mark Ernestus and Moritz von Oswald, were responsible for creating a new sound that combined Dub and Techno. Their unique production style of using echo and reverb effects, along with their emphasis on a deep, bass-heavy sound, became the blueprint for Dub Techno.

The first Basic Channel record was released in 1993, and the duo went on to produce a string of releases over the next few years. Chain Reaction, which was founded by members of Basic Channel, was another influential label that featured Dub Techno music.

Dub Techno’s popularity grew rapidly in the mid to late 1990s. The genre’s unique sound and heavy use of reverb and echo effects created an immersive listening experience. Dub Techno was also popular in the club scene, where DJs used it as a tool to create a hypnotic and trance-like atmosphere.

One of the most influential Dub Techno albums was released in 1994 by The Orb. Their album, “Pomme Fritz,” was a departure from their previous work, which was known for its ambient soundscapes. “Pomme Fritz” featured a Dub Techno-inspired sound that was ahead of its time.

Dub Techno continued to evolve throughout the 2000s with artists adding their own unique take on the genre. Artists like Deadbeat, Deepchord, and Maurizio continued to push the boundaries of Dub Techno with their experimental production techniques.

One of the most significant developments in Dub Techno was the introduction of the dubstep genre in the 2000s. Dubstep drew inspiration from Dub Techno but incorporated more elements of electronic dance music. Dub Techno and dubstep continue to be popular genres today, with many artists combining elements of both genres to create a unique sound.

In recent years, Dub Techno has gained more mainstream attention, with artists like Shed and Andy Stott attracting a wider audience. The genre has also found a home on streaming platforms like Spotify, where there are several curated playlists featuring Dub Techno music.

Notable Dub Techno artists

Basic Channel: Formed in Berlin, Basic Channel is a famous duo artist group that created Dub Techno in the early ’90s. They produce hypnotic tracks with minimal and deep basslines. Even though the group disbanded in 1995, their influence on the sub-genre of Dub Techno is still significant.

DeepChord: DeepChord is an American Dub Techno artist known for his minimalistic soundscapes. He creates mesmerizing ambient tracks that have become an inspiration for other Dub Techno producers. He has released numerous EPs and albums over the years.

Moritz von Oswald Trio: Moritz von Oswald is a German Dub Techno artist and producer who has been in the music industry for decades. He formed a trio with Sasu Ripatti (aka Vladislav Delay) and Max Loderbauer. They released several albums together, including “Fetch” released in 2012.

Yagya: Yagya is an Icelandic Dub Techno producer known for his ethereal tracks and atmospheric soundscapes. He has released several critically acclaimed albums over the years, including his latest release, “Old Dreams and Memories.”

Rhythm & Sound: Rhythm & Sound is a German Dub Techno duo consisting of Moritz von Oswald and Mark Ernestus. They incorporate Jamaican dub music in their productions, creating a unique blend of Dub Techno. They have released several albums and EPs, including “See Mi Yah” released in 2005.

Fluxion: Fluxion is a Greek Dub Techno artist who is known for his abstract and deep techno tracks. His tracks are characterized by soft percussion and long evolving synthesizer pads. He has several releases under his name, including “Vibrant Forms III” released in 2016.

Rod Modell: Rod Modell, also known as Deepchord, is an American Dub Techno artist who creates tracks with a minimal and ambient sound. His music is filled with atmospheric pads, deep basslines, and delicate percussion. He has several solo releases and collaborations under his name.

Echospace: Echospace is an American Dub Techno duo consisting of Rod Modell and Stephen Hitchell. Their music is characterized by deep and pulsating rhythms, echo effects, and reverb. They have released several albums, including “The Coldest Season” in 2007.

Quantec: Quantec is a German Dub Techno producer known for his complex sound structures and deep basslines. His music is both dreamy and futuristic, with a focus on texture and dynamics. He has several releases under his name, including “Cauldron Subsidence” released in 2014.

Mikkel Metal: Mikkel Metal is a Danish Dub Techno artist who creates music with a minimal and melancholic sound. His tracks are characterized by soft melodies, pulsating basslines, and intricate percussion. He has several solo releases and collaborations under his name.

25 Dub Techno records you should hear

1. Basic Channel - Quadrant Dub I
2. Maurizio - M4.5
3. Deepchord - Vantage Isle (DC Mix II)
4. Fluxion - Multidirectional II
5. Monolake - Titan
6. Yagya - Snowflake 6
7. Rhythm & Sound - Free For All (Soundstream Remix)
8. Intrusion - Seduction
9. Pole - Raum Eins
10. STL - Dub Zero (Reshaped)
11. Echospace - Winter In Seney
12. Marko Fürstenberg - Gyroscop
13. Model 500 - Astralwerks
14. Porter Ricks - Anguilla Electrica
15. Substance - Plate Element 3
16. Substance & Vainqueur - Resonance
17. Tikiman & Rhythm & Sound - Ruff Way (Afefe Iku Remix)
18. Deadbeat - My Rotten Roots
19. Brendon Moeller - Spice
20. Roberto Clementi - Wall Of People
21. Atmophile Electronics - Raumsonde
22. Grad_U - EV4
23. CV313 - Glass City Sessions
24. Andy Stott - Faith In Strangers
25. Dublicator - Multiplicity Of Alternatives.

Dub Techno and the charts

One of the most successful dub techno albums of all time is “Basic Channel” by Basic Channel, released in 1993. The album is widely regarded as a classic in the genre and has influenced many artists since its release. It features deep basslines, intricate rhythms, and ethereal soundscapes that transport the listener to a unique sonic world. Although the album did not reach the top of the charts, it has been highly influential in the development of techno and other electronic music genres.

In 1994, the duo Porter Ricks released their debut album “Biokinetics” on the Chain Reaction label. The album features glitchy rhythms, hazy synths, and eerie sound effects. It was a critical success and helped establish Chain Reaction as one of the leading labels in the dub techno scene. The album did not sell in high volume, but it has been widely praised for its innovative sound and approach to the genre.

Another notable record is “Scape” by Pole, released in 2000. The album features a more minimalist take on dub techno, with sparse beats and glitchy textures. It was highly influential in the development of glitch and micro-house genres. The album received critical acclaim and sold reasonably well, establishing Pole as a leading figure in the dub techno scene.

In recent years, dub techno has seen a resurgence in popularity, with more artists experimenting with the sound and incorporating it into their music. One such example is the album “For Paris” by DVS1, released in 2016. The album combines dub techno elements with breakbeats and industrial sounds, creating a unique and intense sonic experience. The album was well-received by critics and reached number 3 on the Billboard Dance/Electronic charts, a rare feat for a dub techno album.

What people have said about Dub Techno

One notable book on the subject is titled “Beyond the Dancefloor: Ethnomusicology and Popular Music Studies in the Contemporary World” by Timothy J. Cooley. In this book, Cooley notes that dub techno is often associated with a “darker, more introspective vibe” than other forms of techno. He also suggests that the use of dub techniques in techno music creates a sense of spatial awareness, as if the sound is coming from a particular location within the listener’s physical space.

Another book that explores dub techno is “Techno Rebels: The Renegades of Electronic Funk” by Dan Sicko. In this book, Sicko delves into the history of electronic music and its various sub-genres, including dub techno. He notes that dub techno was heavily influenced by Jamaican dub music, which is characterized by its heavy use of reverb and echo effects.

In addition to books, many articles and reviews have been written about dub techno. In a review of a dub techno album by the artist Basic Channel, journalist Simon Reynolds describes the genre as “a sound that exudes a sense of timelessness, but also a sense of place.” He notes that dub techno is often associated with urban environments, and that its minimalism and repetition can create a hypnotic effect.

Journalist Philip Sherburne has also written extensively about dub techno, noting that the genre’s emphasis on atmosphere and texture can be traced back to the work of dub music pioneer Lee “Scratch” Perry. Sherburne observes that the dub techno sound has evolved over the years, with some artists incorporating elements of dubstep and other genres into their work.

Many musicians and DJs have also offered their thoughts on dub techno over the years. American techno producer Carl Craig has praised the genre for its ability to create a “sense of elevation and suspension.” British DJ and producer Luke Slater has described dub techno as “a very open sound,” suggesting that its minimalism allows for greater experimentation and creativity.

Dub Techno in context

Dub techno emerged during a period of social changes. The early 1990s saw the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War. The end of the Cold War brought about a sense of hope and optimism, which was reflected in the music of the time. Dub techno emerged as a response to the angst of the post-industrial era. The genre provided an outlet for the feelings of disillusionment and frustration that were prevalent at the time.

Dub techno is heavily influenced by the Jamaican dub scene of the 1970s. Dub music was a response to political and social turmoil. Dub music emerged as a way for Jamaicans to express their dissatisfaction with the political and social situation in the country. Dub techno borrows heavily from the sounds of dub music. Dub techno uses dub techniques such as delays, echoes, and reverb to create a hypnotic sound.

Dub techno emerged during a period of rapid technological change. The rise of digital technology had a significant impact on the music industry. The use of digital technology allowed producers to experiment with new sounds and techniques. Dub techno is characterized by its use of minimalist soundscapes, which were made possible by the use of digital technology.

Dub techno has been shaped by the efforts of several notable record labels and figures. Chain Reaction is perhaps the most influential dub techno label. The label was founded in 1995 by Moritz von Oswald and Mark Ernestus. The label was responsible for releasing several seminal dub techno records. Basic Channel is another influential dub techno label. The label was founded by Moritz von Oswald and Mark Ernestus in 1993. The label was instrumental in shaping the dub techno sound.

Journalists have also played a significant role in shaping the dub techno genre. The journalist Simon Reynolds has written extensively about the dub techno genre. Reynolds has been instrumental in bringing the genre to wider attention. Reynolds’s book “Energy Flash: A Journey Through Rave Music and Dance Culture” provides an insightful analysis of the dub techno genre.

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