Tehno

Tehno is a genre of electronic dance music that emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is characterized by its repetitive, hypnotic rhythms, often featuring a tempo between 130 and 150 beats per minute. The sound of tehno is typically produced using synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers, creating a futuristic and sometimes industrial atmosphere. Tracks often focus on percussive elements and minimal melodic content, building tension and release through rhythmic variations and subtle sonic shifts.

The origins of tehno can be traced to Detroit, Michigan, where artists like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson are considered pioneers. They were influenced by a range of musical styles, including funk, soul, Chicago house, and European electronic music. From Detroit, tehno spread globally, finding fertile ground in cities like Berlin, London, and Tokyo, where it evolved and spawned numerous subgenres.

Common characteristics of tehno production include the prominent use of a TR-808 or TR-909 drum machine sound, stark basslines, and synthesized melodies or textures that are often abstract or dissonant. While improvisation can play a role in live performances, studio productions are typically meticulously crafted, emphasizing sonic detail and groove. Tehno is often associated with club culture and underground music scenes, and its minimalist aesthetic has influenced many other forms of electronic music.