The Way Electro-Clash Brought Back Glitz, Filth and Excitement to 00s Music
Jonny Slut realized his party Nag had become a phenomenon when he saw Cilla Black moving to the beat. “I believe that’s the sole moment I got truly thrilled,” he laughs. “My selection included the Tobi Neumann remix of the song My Neck, My Back – with Cilla present.”
An International Movement of Electroclash
A fresh wave of digital production surfaced around the world in the 2000s. German artists introduced group Chicks on Speed and innovative an influential DJ. France brought forth Miss Kittin, The Hacker, and other artists. Britain gave rise to Ladytron and a noisy trio. Canada introduced a producer and Peaches who revamped her music with a synthesizer.
NYC had a performance duo and a DJ-producer who coined the term electro-clash. Vocals were witty, at times foul-mouthed, and over-the-top. The sound blended house with a rough-hewn vibe.
“Production wasn’t as easy,” notes an originator. “You could record playable songs in your apartment.”
A Reaction to the Mainstream Music Scene
The movement felt like a counterpoint to commercial mainstream DJs. According to a key figure, it was music by “marginalised artists … fed up with a establishment” that defined what rock should be.
The scene soon built an crowd. This event played not only the genre but also industrial tracks. It became an instant hit, attracting famous faces like Kate Moss, a designer, and Boy George.
Legacy and Renewed Interest
Although media attention, the sound didn’t create a mainstream superstar. Several performers had difficulty on rock-oriented shows. However its influence entered mainstream sounds through artists like a girl group, an electronic duo, and even Madonna.
Stateside, however, electroclash encountered a negative reaction. Larry Tee argues it was because the business wasn’t supportive “women, LGBTQ+ people and non-binary individuals.”
In recent years, however, electroclash has seen a resurgence. New artists and events are embracing the genre. An original artist toured her first album to excited audiences, including new listeners.
“In my view the younger generation connect with it,” comments an insider. “This was like the resistance.”
These tracks of electroclash feel relevant today. The themes – queer expression and DIY ethos – feel more timely than ever.
