filter house

The Rise of Filter House: From Tech-House Twists to Deep & Moody Sounds

Filter house, a captivating subgenre of house music, emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s, marking a significant shift in the electronic music landscape.

Early Influences & Birth of the Genre:

• Tech-house pioneers: Filter house owes its roots to the tech-house sound of producers like Josh Wink and DJ Pierre, who incorporated gritty, distorted sounds and driving rhythms into their music.
• The “Filter” effect: The defining element of filter house is the use of filters, audio effects that alter the frequency spectrum of sound, creating a sense of movement, tension, and release.
• Early tracks: Some of the earliest and most influential filter house tracks include Josh Wink’s “Higher State of Consciousness” (1995) and Robert Miles’s “Children” (1995).

Characteristics of Filter House:

• Grooving basslines: A prominent and pulsating bassline forms the foundation of the music.
• Intricate drum patterns: Complex and varied drum patterns create a hypnotic effect.
• Emphasis on build-up and release: Filter house often uses extended build-ups and drops, creating dramatic shifts in energy.
• Melodic elements: While not as prominent as in other house subgenres, melodic elements are occasionally used to add depth and emotion.

Key Artists & Notable Tracks:

• Josh Wink: Known for his groundbreaking “Higher State of Consciousness” and his innovative use of filters.
• Sasha: A pioneer of the genre, known for his ethereal soundscapes and intricate layering techniques.
• John Digweed: A highly respected DJ and producer known for his energetic sets and technical mastery.
• Paul van Dyk: A German techno and trance producer who has also experimented with filter house, known for his powerful tracks like “For an Angel” and “For a Thousand Years.”

Fun Facts:

• The “Higher State of Consciousness” Controversy: Josh Wink’s iconic track “Higher State of Consciousness” sparked controversy when it was used in a television advertisement for a brand of cigarettes.
• Sasha’s “Xpander” obsession: Sasha is known for his love of the Roland TR-808 drum machine and the Roland Juno-106 synthesizer, particularly the Juno’s “Xpander” effect.
• The “Filter House” Podcast: A popular podcast dedicated to the genre, featuring interviews with leading artists and showcasing new releases.

Filter House Today:

Filter house continues to evolve and inspire contemporary producers, with many incorporating its signature sounds and techniques into their own music. Its impact on the electronic music landscape remains undeniable, serving as a crucial link between techno and house music.

Further Exploration:

• Josh Wink’s website: www.josh-wink.com
• Sasha’s website: www.sasha.com
• John Digweed’s website: www.johndigweed.com
• Paul van Dyk’s website: www.paulanvdvk.com

Listen to some classic filter house tracks:

• Josh Wink – “Higher State of Consciousness”
• Sasha – “Xpander”
• John Digweed – “The Tunnel”
• Paul van Dyk – “For an Angel”

Filter house is a subgenre that truly encapsulates the dynamic and evolving nature of electronic music. Its captivating grooves, hypnotic rhythms, and skillful use of filters continue to inspire and excite music lovers across the globe.