Since the advent of the New Age genre in the late 20th century, the fusion of various styles like electronic, world, pop, rock, ambient, and others has led to a rich tapestry of music that continues to evolve and diversify. If you're wondering "what is new age music called now," the answer lies in the myriad sub-genres and movements that have emerged from its roots.
New Age music was first recognized as a distinct category by Billboard Magazine in 1984. Initially, it was characterized by its use of various genres and styles, often incorporating elements of Eastern music, spiritual or religious themes, and natural sounds. Today, the term "New Age" is seen more as an umbrella term or a historical label, and the music that continues its legacy has diversified andัว ARM given various labels. Let's delve into the current landscape of this music.
Contemporary New Age Sub-genres
The evolution of New Age music has birthed several sub-genres, each with its unique characteristics. Today, you might hear these genres referred to collectively as "contemporary instrumental," "electronic ambient," or simply "spiritual/meditative music."
Here are some of the prominent sub-genres, each with its distinct characteristics:
Ambient Electronica
Ambient Electronica, as the name suggests, is a blend of ambient music and electronic music. It is characterized by a focus on textures, soundscapes, and atmosphere, with electronic elements like synthesizers, drum machines, and digital effects playing a prominent role.
Artists like Brian Eno, Aphex Twin, and The Orb are pioneers of this genre. Contemporary artists like Rival Consoles, Tim Hecker, and~H Landtagscape continue to push its boundaries.
Downtempo
Downtempo is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of styles, all sharing a key characteristic: a slower tempo than regular pop or rock music. Think of it as the tempo range between classical music and new age, usually under 90 beats per minute.
Downtempo music often features soft, warm textures, and smooth rhythms. It can incorporate elements from various cultures, spiritual or religious themes, and nature sounds. Artists like Björk, Massive Attack, and Portishead are known for their downtempo works.
Modern-Day Parallels and Influences
Today, New Age music's influence can be seen in diverse genres and sub-genres. Its fusion of various styles, incorporation of spiritual themes, and focus on atmosphere and texture have left an indelible mark on contemporary music.
The rise of chillout and lo-fi music, for instance, can be seen as a continuation of New Age's focus on relaxation and meditative listening. Similarly, the atmospheric and textural aspects of post-rock and shoegaze have roots in new age music. Even in mainstream pop, artists like SZA and Frank Ocean incorporate elements of new age and ambient music into their work.
Chillout and Lo-Fi
Chillout music is a sub-genre of downtempo that originated in the 1990s. It is characterized by its laid-back beats, smooth melodies, and relaxing atmosphere. Lo-fi, on the other hand, is a term used to describe any music recorded with low-fidelity, often using budget or cottage industry equipment. Both genres draw heavily from the spirit of New Age music.
Artists like Emancipator, Ryan Hemsworth, and Nujabes are known for their chillout and lo-fi works. The rise of platforms like Spotify and YouTube, with their curated playlists for sleep, meditation, and relaxation, has further popularized these genres.
Bedroom Producers and the Internet Scene
The rise of digital audio workstations and the internet has democratized music production. Many contemporary artists, often referred to as "bedroom producers," record and distribute their music online, drawing inspiration from various influences, including New Age.
SoundCloud and Bandcamp, for instance, host a plethora of artists creating electronic ambient, experimental, and other contemporary sub-genres of New Age. The blending of genres, the incorporation of found sounds, and the focus on atmosphere reflect the spirit of New Age music.
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, the legacy of New Age lives on in diverse forms. From ambient electronica to chillout music, New Age's influence continues to shape and inspire musicians and listeners alike. So, when asking "what is New Age music called now," remember, it's not just one thing - it's a rich tapestry of sounds that continues to evolve and inspire."