hyperko

Hyperko refers to a style of music that emerged in the late 2000s, characterized by its fusion of high-energy electronic dance music elements with intensely fast and often complex drum patterns. The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "hyperactive" with "breakbeat" or "drum and bass," reflecting the genre's frantic tempo and rhythmic foundations. Producers within the hyperko scene often draw inspiration from hardcore techno, gabber, and drum and bass, but push the tempo and intensity to extreme levels, frequently exceeding 200 beats per minute.

The sonic landscape of hyperko is typically dominated by distorted basslines, rapid-fire kick drums, and a dense layering of percussive sounds. Melodies, if present, are often minimal and repetitive, serving more as a textural element than a focal point. Vocals are rarely featured, and when they are, they are usually heavily processed or sampled. The overall effect is one of relentless energy and a sense of controlled chaos, designed to be experienced in a club or festival setting. While not a mainstream genre, hyperko has cultivated a dedicated following within underground electronic music communities.