Düsseldorf School of electronic music
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| Düsseldorf School | |
|---|---|
| Stylistic origins | Krautrock, funk, electronic music |
| Cultural origins | Early 1970s in Germany |
| Typical instruments | Guitar, bass, drums, synthesizer, occasionally vocals |
| Derivative forms | Synthpop, Techno |
| Other topics | |
| Berlin School of electronic music | |
The Düsseldorf School a style of electronic music that emerged in the 1970s, shaped by Düsseldorf-based artists like Kraftwerk, Cluster, Can and Neu!. The style is characterized by synthesizer melodies, rhythmic bass lines and prominent drums. Most works were instrumental; vocals were used sparingly. The term is commonly used in opposition to the contemporary movement known as the Berlin School.
Early works
The early albums of Kraftwerk and Can are very different from the later more commercial work. Albums like Kraftwerk and Kraftwerk 2 are very experimental, with hard drumming, electronic violin and manipulated electronic flute.
Main Period
Albums that helped to define the genre include Kraftwerk's Autobahn (1974) and The Man-Machine (1978). Tracks like "The Robots" from The Man-Machine and "Home Computer" from Computer World (1981) broke away from earlier electronic music developments.
Contemporary Düsseldorf School
Of the original bands, Kraftwerk is the only one still active. Although they still tour extensively, their last album of new material appeared a decade ago – Tour de France Soundtracks (2003).
