Electronica Experimentation In the U.S. Today
Although EDM as an umbrella term has existed since the 1980s, the broad scope of the genre has wildly expanded since the early 2000s. The electronic scene in Los Angeles today is a motley mix of obscurity, from high energy dance music to ethereal, distorted rap vocals. Despite the diversity in the Electronica scene, three explosive artists who have risen to prominence over the last decade have grown to truly encapsulate the heart of L.A. Electronica lovers - The Hellp, Snow Strippers, and Yung Lean.
THE HELLP
Over the past decade, L.A. based duo The Hellp have slowly raised a loyal following across the nation. Enamored with their quirky vocals and use of synths to create a drum and bass reminiscent, high energy club experience, their experimental shows have captured the eye of eccentric creatives. From performing at small charity festivals in L.A. to DJing Anna Delvey’s 2023 house arrest party in New York City, the polarizing duo have re-ignited an exploration into deconstructed Electronica that have thrown them into the spotlight. You either love them, or you hate them.
SNOW STRIPPERS
From roaming the cold streets of Detroit to collaborating with Lil Uzi Vert on his 2023 album Pink Tape, Snow Strippers have mixed together loud, overwhelming siren-esk vocals with truly powerful production, putting their bold stamp on the dance and electronic scenes. The duo has morphed at least half a dozen electronic subgenres into their three albums thus far, unapologetically experimenting with synths to create a chaotic, overwhelming listening experience. Their capacity for abrasiveness in their music truly feels like a fresh take, despite their obvious 2010s witch house inspirations (such as Crystal Castles). Snow Strippers popularity in L.A. is certainly on the rise, the city being their #1 listening demographic. Definitely keep an eye out; with their experimentation and presence already, the bold duo is certainly on a steady path to fame.
YUNG LEAN
Over the last decade, Yung Lean has gone from an aspiring Swedish musician to selling out shows around the globe and even playing Coachella in 2023. Yung Lean is unique in that his use of Electronica is almost mystical and other-worldly. While being considered a rapper, his music often flirts with and distorts the typical use of synths in EDM to create an almost out of body experience. His songs feel like journal entries, a huge contrast to the typical upbeat and high energy club music that has become synonymous with Electronica. His incredible success as an artist is felt in Los Angeles, playing 13 shows in LA since 2014.
Sources
Britannica.com