10 Fascinating Niche Music Genres Which Need To Be Heard
The most extraordinary niche music genres you may never before have experienced.
Just how niche can a music genre get? Judging by the examples on this list, the answer is: very. The number of categories within popular music has constantly been expanding ever since the concept of popular music first arose. The nature, or defining characteristics, of the most widely used genre labels is similarly in flux. Heavy metal, R&B and pop meant very different things fifty years ago, and likely will do so in the future.
That said, there are many niche genres out there whose definitions are so exact as to be largely unchanging. Even the least commercial of styles attract loyal fans who will devour anything which that particular combination of elements has to offer, and understandably so. Apart from the fun and the kudos of being 'into' the oddest and most obscure scene going, niche genres provide a comfortable familiarity for the listener.
Moreover, narrowing down and focusing in provides an opportunity to become an expert, and a rare chance to own every important record in your field of choice. That has to be attractive to us music nerds, and it is with all of the above in mind that we present here ten of the most fascinating categories from popular music history.
10. Fourth World
Another fascinating concept here, with no little pedigree attached. Fourth World is a concept imagined by American trumpeter and composer, John Hassell, whose ambition was to create a 'future primitive' music – something which sounded immediately rootsy and universal, yet utilised modern techniques and technology.
In an interview with Sound On Sound (sadly no longer available online) Hassell explained: “My aim was to make a music that was vertically integrated in such a way that at any cross-sectional moment you were not able to pick a single element out as being from a particular country or genre of music."
The list of artists Hassell collaborated with during his lifetime is testament to the musician's standing and far-sighted vision. Terry Riley, Brian Eno, Talking Heads, Peter Gabriel and Ry Cooder all have connections.
It was with Eno that Hassell partnered for his extraordinary 1980 album Fourth World Vol 1. Whether or not Hassell succeeded in his aim is for the individual listener to decide. Whatever you make of this music, Hassell's influence on some of the most forward-thinking acts in popular music is undeniable.