If you’re a fan of electronic music artists like Squarepusher, Plaid, and Aphex Twin, you might be surprised to find that your musical tastes can serve as a gateway to the rock music of the 1970s. The era was marked by experimentation, with many rock bands incorporating avant-garde and electronic elements into their music. Let’s explore the genres and key albums that could pique your interest.
Progressive Rock: The Pioneers of Intricate Compositions
Progressive rock, also known as “prog rock,” is an ideal starting point for fans of electronic music, as it features complex arrangements, extended track lengths, and concept albums. Pink Floyd’s groundbreaking “The Dark Side of the Moon” (1973) is a quintessential prog rock masterpiece, famous for its innovative use of sound effects and recording techniques, including a looped recording of a cash register on “Money.” Alongside Pink Floyd, Yes and Genesis are also celebrated for their contributions to the genre. Albums such as Yes’s “Close to the Edge” (1972) and Genesis’s “Selling England by the Pound” (1973) showcase their mastery of progressive rock.
Krautrock: Germany’s Experimental Electronic Scene
Krautrock emerged in Germany in the late 1960s and 1970s, blending electronic and avant-garde influences. Bands like Can, Neu!, and Kraftwerk are pioneers of this movement. Can’s “Tago Mago” (1971) features hypnotic rhythms and innovative tape editing techniques that continue to influence artists today. Similarly, Neu!’s self-titled debut album from 1972 and Kraftwerk’s “Trans-Europe Express” (1977) are must-listens for those seeking to dive into the world of Krautrock.
Art Rock: A Meeting of Rock and the Avant-garde
Art rock marries the worlds of rock, avant-garde, classical, and electronic music. Legendary artists like David Bowie, Brian Eno, and Roxy Music define this eclectic genre. Bowie’s “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” (1972) is a concept album that tells the story of an alien rock star, while Brian Eno’s “Another Green World” (1975) marks a departure from his earlier glam rock sound in favor of more experimental compositions.
Psychedelic Rock: A Journey into Soundscapes
Originating in the 1960s, psychedelic rock continued to evolve in the 1970s with its surreal lyrics and innovative soundscapes. Tangerine Dream, Gong, and Hawkwind are examples of bands that might appeal to electronic music enthusiasts. Tangerine Dream’s “Phaedra” (1974) is a landmark album in the genre, pioneering the use of sequencers and synthesizers. Gong’s “You” (1974) and Hawkwind’s “In Search of Space” (1971) are other key albums that showcase the adventurous spirit of psychedelic rock.
Experimental/Avant-garde Rock: Pushing the Boundaries
Experimental rock embraces the unconventional, and artists like Frank Zappa, Captain Beefheart, and Robert Fripp are known for their unique compositions and techniques. Captain Beefheart’s “Trout Mask Replica” (1969) is a highly influential album that took over a year to record, with its off-kilter rhythms and disjointed melodies challenging the listener’s perception of music. King Crimson, featuring Robert Fripp, also made significant contributions to the experimental rock scene with albums like “In the Court of the Crimson King” (1969) and “Red” (1974), which showcase their innovative use of guitars and a wide range of musical styles.
A New World of Rock Awaits
As you embark on your journey into rock music of the 1970s, you’ll find that your appreciation for electronic music serves as a solid foundation for exploring these innovative genres. From progressive rock to experimental/avant-garde rock, there are countless albums and artists waiting to be discovered. By immersing yourself in these groundbreaking works, you’ll not only expand your musical horizons but also gain a deeper understanding of how electronic music has been influenced by the rock music of the past. So, grab your headphones, and prepare for an unforgettable trip through the diverse world of ’70s rock.