flofilz

The Groovy History of Filofax: From Business to Beats

While the term “Filofax” might conjure images of leather-bound organizers and business meetings, it’s also a genre of electronic music that’s been quietly brewing for over a decade.

The Origins:

Filofax, a portmanteau of “filter” and “fax,” emerged in the early 2010s, born out of the experimental electronic music scene. Its roots can be traced back to the burgeoning world of online music sharing and the accessibility of software like Ableton Live.

The Sound:

Filofax is characterized by its intricate layering of samples, often taken from obscure sources like vintage audiotapes, field recordings, and even found sounds. It leans heavily on the use of filters and distortion effects, resulting in a unique, often dissonant sonic landscape.

Key Figures:

1. DJ Spooky: Not only did he pioneer “laptop DJing” with his “Rhythm Science” series, but his 2004 album “The Way of the DJ” foreshadowed the rise of filofax by blurring the lines between turntablism and experimental electronic music.

2. Flying Lotus: With his groundbreaking album “Los Angeles,” Flying Lotus took filofax to the next level, using complex sample manipulations and an avant-garde approach to create a sound that was both psychedelic and deeply personal.

3. Clark: Known for his abrasive and industrial soundscapes, Clark has been a consistent force in the filofax scene, pushing the boundaries of what the genre can achieve.

4. Oneohtrix Point Never: This artist, with his penchant for bizarre and abstract sounds, has been a key influence on filofax, inspiring younger artists with his unique approach to experimental production.

Fun Facts:

• The “Filofax” Sample: A meme in the filofax community is the use of a specific audio sample – a distorted voice saying “Filofax” – that has become a recurring joke.
• The “Filofax” Challenge: A challenge among producers is to see who can create the most dissonant or bizarre track using only samples from obscure sources.
• Filofax for the Masses: While the genre remains relatively niche, it has influenced the sounds of popular artists like The Weeknd, Kendrick Lamar, and Travis Scott, contributing to the broader shift towards experimental production in mainstream music.

The Future:

Filofax, despite its unique and sometimes jarring sound, continues to evolve and find new audiences. It’s a testament to the power of creative experimentation and the boundless possibilities of electronic music.