Downtempo, a musical genre as laid-back as a hammock on a sunny afternoon, has its roots in the late 80s and early 90s, arising from the fertile ground of electronic music experimentation.
The Beginning:
While no single artist or song can be credited with birthing downtempo, the seeds were sown by artists like Brian Eno and Harold Budd, whose ambient soundscapes paved the way for the genre’s introspective, atmospheric nature. DJ Krush and The Orb are also considered pioneers, bringing elements of hip-hop, jazz, and ambient music to the table.
The Rise of Chill:
The 90s saw downtempo truly blossom, particularly in the UK. Massive Attack, with their melancholic blend of trip-hop and dub, became synonymous with the genre. Tricky, Portishead, and Björk further propelled the genre into the mainstream, blurring the lines between electronica, jazz, and alternative rock.
Beyond the Beats:
Downtempo isn’t just about mellow beats and atmospheric soundscapes. It encompasses a diverse range of subgenres, each with its own unique flavor:
Trip-hop: Think melancholic melodies, soulful vocals, and a touch of jazz, epitomized by Massive Attack and Portishead.
Chillwave: Synths and dreamy melodies reign supreme, offering a nostalgic and hazy soundscape often associated with artists like Washed Out and Beach House.
Ambient Downtempo: This subgenre emphasizes atmosphere and soundscapes, leaving the listener to drift away in a world of textures and sonic explorations. Brian Eno and Aphex Twin are pioneers in this space.
Funny Facts:
Portishead’s Beth Gibbons once revealed she struggles to sing live, leading to a hilarious incident where she forgot the lyrics to their hit song “Glory Box” during a performance.
DJ Krush, known for his minimalist approach to music, is also known for his unique style of dress – he often sports a fedora and sunglasses, a look that has become iconic.
Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja (3D) is a notorious prankster, once sending a fake press release announcing the band’s disbandment to music publications.
A Genre for All Seasons:
Downtempo continues to evolve, embracing new technologies and sounds. From its chillwave resurgence to the emergence of artists like Tycho and Odesza who fuse downtempo with electronic dance music, the genre remains as relevant as ever. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape or a meditative journey through sound, downtempo offers something for everyone.
