Genre in the Digital Age- What is Post-Dubstep?

By AboutToBlow @AboutToBlowBlog · On October 4, 2014

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What was the last genre that captured a generation?, that created a unifying movement?

In a world dominated by the media and technology is there really space and time for an organic musical movement to grow?

In 2010 we posted an article exploring the evolution of modern music and the recent trend in hatching sub genres. More specifically we look into what some people regarded as a new movement in electronic music coined, ‘Post-Dubstep’. The article looked at the artists who were commonly placed under this bracket such as James Blake, Blawan, Deadboy, Jacques Greene, Koreless, Hackman and although it drew no conclusion to the exactly definition of Post-Dubstep it provided an insight into the styles and influences that’s made it such an enigmatic talking point. The article was cited and credited by others investigating the genre alongside it’s influences and even today the ambiguous argument surrounding classifications are still rife amongst hipsters, purists and musicians all over the blogger-sphere and the darkest corners of the YouTube comments section.

We recently took part in an interview for a research project conducted by Rob Murray (ACM) who has been investigating Post Dubstep’s representation in society. Murray takes a unique perspective exploring the organic nature of genre and how it has been influenced by modern technology. He looks in depth at the culture that surrounds each genre and more specifically Post-Dubstep. Whether you’re a enthusiast of the genre itself or a fan of artist’s associated, this piece still makes for an interesting and insightful read. Murray has also attached a playlist of tracks which typically fell under the ‘post-dubstep’ umbrella. The full research project can be found here or read below.

“It is important to consider the Information Society in modern genre definition as this outlines the influences upon artists. It will help to decide whether Post-Dubstep is a reflection of the society that created it leading to a youth movement or just a media buzz word”

“Post-Dubstep artists took on Dubstep’s codes and conventions, drawing from a vast array of sounds, as wide as 2-Step, Garage, Ambient and 2000’s R&B, leading to accusations it lacks a definite sound.”

“Genre definition is a contention subject, trying to analyse the effect of a genre so soon after it happened and is still happening, can be somewhat futile”

“Due to the way society and the media is shaping up, genres could became a thing of the past with micro musical movements, musical fads and mini genres being more adept terms.”