As electronic music continues to evolve, new subgenres emerge, each offering a unique journey through soundscapes and emotions. Among these, tropical and organic house music have recently taken center stage, providing a refreshing departure from the high-energy beats of mainstream electronic dance music. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the emergence of these genres, exploring their origins, defining characteristics, and the artists who have shaped their sonic landscapes.
The Roots of Tropical House
The term “tropical house” began to gain prominence in the early 2010s, as electronic music producers began infusing their tracks with elements reminiscent of sun-soaked beaches, swaying palm trees, and exotic destinations. One of the pioneers of this genre is Kygo, a Norwegian DJ and producer whose breakthrough track “Firestone” catapulted him to international fame.
Tropical house music is characterized by its melodic, soothing, and often guitar-driven compositions. It draws inspiration from various musical traditions, including reggae, calypso, and tropical pop. The genre often features tropical instrumentals like steel drums, marimbas, and pan flutes, which transport listeners to idyllic, faraway locales.
Kygo’s rise to stardom demonstrated the widespread appeal of this genre, capturing the hearts of music lovers seeking a more laid-back and emotive electronic sound. His subsequent tracks, such as “Stole the Show” and “It Ain’t Me,” solidified his position as a tropical house icon.
The Essence of Organic House
Organic house, on the other hand, offers a deeper connection to the natural world through its music. While it shares some similarities with tropical house, organic house takes a more holistic approach, incorporating earthy, organic sounds and a sense of introspection.
The roots of organic house can be traced to the underground electronic music scene, where artists sought to create a more immersive and intimate experience. Organic house embraces acoustic instruments, like pianos, violins, and flutes, which blend seamlessly with electronic beats to create a harmonious blend of man-made and natural elements.
Lee Burridge, a British DJ and producer, is often credited with popularizing organic house through his renowned “All Day I Dream” events and record label. These gatherings take place in picturesque outdoor settings, further enhancing the genre’s connection to nature. Burridge’s vision has inspired a community of artists and fans who share a deep appreciation for the genre’s spiritual and meditative qualities.
Shared Themes and Vibes
While tropical and organic house have distinct characteristics, they share some common themes and vibes that resonate with listeners worldwide. Both genres aim to transport their audience to a tranquil, dreamlike state where they can momentarily escape the chaos of daily life.
- Natural Elements: Both genres incorporate sounds and instruments that evoke the beauty and serenity of the natural world. Whether it’s the rustling of leaves, the crashing of waves, or the chirping of birds, these organic elements create a sensory experience that is both grounding and transcendent.
- Emotional Resonance: Tropical and organic house music often conveys a sense of nostalgia and longing. The melodies and harmonies tap into deep emotions, allowing listeners to connect on a profound level. This emotional resonance is a hallmark of these genres.
- Timeless Appeal: Unlike some electronic subgenres that may be tied to a specific era or trend, tropical and organic house have a timeless quality. Their melodic and emotive nature ensures that the music remains relevant and enjoyable for years to come.
Artists Who Have Shaped the Genres
While Kygo and Lee Burridge have been pivotal figures in the rise of tropical and organic house, they are by no means the only artists making waves in these genres. Many talented producers and DJs are contributing to the evolution of this music. Some notable names include:
- Lost Frequencies: The Belgian DJ and producer has made a significant impact on the tropical house scene with tracks like “Are You with Me” and “Reality.” His music embodies the carefree spirit of the genre.
- YokoO: A stalwart of the organic house movement, YokoO’s ethereal compositions and intricate melodies create immersive sonic journeys that transport listeners to otherworldly realms.
- Bedouin: This New York-based duo is known for their deep, emotive organic house sound, often characterized by hypnotic rhythms and mesmerizing melodies. They’ve gained recognition through their performances at Burning Man and other iconic festivals.
Let’s Go, Tropical Disco!
Tropical and organic house music represent a harmonious blend of electronic innovation and natural inspiration. These genres provide an escape from the fast-paced world and invite listeners to immerse themselves in a tranquil, introspective, and emotionally resonant musical journey. As more artists explore these sonic landscapes, it’s evident that the allure of tropical and organic house will continue to captivate and inspire music lovers around the globe, offering a blissful escape to the beauty of natural grooves.