The Way Electroclash Brought Back Glitz, Filth and Excitement to 00s Music
Jonny Melton knew his club night Nag had become a phenomenon when he spotted Cilla Black dancing. “In my opinion that’s the only time I got really excited,” he chuckles. “The track spinning the reimagined edit of Khia’s My Neck, My Back – with Cilla present.”
The Global Wave of Electro-Clash
A fresh wave of synth-driven beats emerged globally in the early 2000s. German artists introduced group Chicks on Speed and pioneering an influential DJ. France produced Miss Kittin, The Hacker, and other artists. Britain spawned Ladytron and a noisy trio. Canadian musicians showcased Tiga and an artist who transformed her sound with a production tool.
New York had a performance duo and Larry Tee who created the term electroclash. Vocals were witty, sometimes raunchy, and very camp. Music mixed techno with a DIY attitude.
“It isn’t like today,” says Larry Tee. “Artists made playable songs in your bedroom.”
An Answer to the Established Music Scene
This genre felt like a response to polished superclubs. According to a key figure, it was music by “queer creators … frustrated with a system” that defined what electronic had to be.
This movement quickly found an following. This event played not only the genre but also punk music. It turned out to be an popular destination, attracting well-known personalities like a model, a designer, and a pop icon.
Impact and Renewed Interest
Although media attention, the movement failed to yield a huge commercial act. Some artists struggled on mainstream gigs. However its impact entered pop music through acts like Sugababes, Goldfrapp, and even Madonna.
Stateside, however, electroclash provoked a criticism. Larry Tee argues it was because the establishment ignored “women, gays and theys.”
In recent years, though, the style has enjoyed a revival. Emerging acts and club nights are embracing the name. Peaches toured her debut record to rapturous audiences, including young supporters.
“It seems the new audience get it,” says Larry Tee. “It was like the resistance.”
These tracks of that era feel relevant today. Its themes – sexual openness and punk energy – feel more current than ever.
