Idm

Intelligent dance music (IDM) is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the early 1990s, characterized by its experimental and often abstract approach to electronic sound. It frequently incorporates complex rhythms, unconventional melodies, and a wide range of sound design techniques. Despite its name, IDM is generally considered music better suited for home listening than for dancing, although some tracks can be danceable.

The term 'Intelligent Dance Music' originated in the US in 1993, initially as a mailing list name (the IDM list) for discussing a specific style of electronic music. It was loosely applied to artists like Aphex Twin, The Orb, and Warp Records artists. The genre developed from the broader techno and house scenes, with influences from ambient, electro, and experimental music. Early IDM was characterized by a focus on sonic exploration and a departure from the more straightforward structures of traditional dance music. Over time, it has splintered into numerous subgenres and styles, with artists constantly pushing the boundaries of electronic sound.