coppercore

Coppercore is a microgenre of electronic music characterized by its use of distorted and often detuned synth melodies, heavily compressed drums, and a generally dark, industrial, or dystopian atmosphere. The sound often evokes a sense of decay, ruin, or technological malfunction. Its sonic palette frequently incorporates elements of noise music, industrial techno, and ambient. The name itself is thought to derive from the aesthetic association with tarnished or decaying copper, suggesting a material that has degraded over time.

While not a mainstream genre, coppercore has a dedicated online following, primarily within communities focused on experimental electronic music and internet-based subcultures. Its creation and dissemination are often facilitated through online platforms like Bandcamp, SoundCloud, and various music forums. Artists within the coppercore scene tend to favor DIY production methods and prioritize atmosphere and texture over traditional song structures or commercial appeal. The genre is difficult to define with strict boundaries, and its practitioners may draw inspiration from a wide range of electronic music styles. The overall listening experience is often described as immersive and unsettling.