Glitch (music)

Glitch music, often simply referred to as "glitch," is a genre of electronic music characterized by the deliberate use of sonic artifacts and imperfections normally considered undesirable or accidental, such as digital noises, errors, clicks, pops, static, and distortions. It embraces and transforms these perceived flaws into aesthetic elements within the composition.

Glitch music evolved from experimental electronic music in the late 20th century, becoming more defined and widely recognized in the early 21st century. It is often associated with IDM (Intelligent Dance Music) and experimental techno but stands apart through its specific focus on the sonic textures created by glitches.

Key characteristics of glitch music include:

• Emphasis on digital artifacts: The core of the genre relies on utilizing the sounds of digital errors and imperfections, often pushing them to the forefront of the mix.
• Fragmented rhythms and structures: Traditional song structures can be deconstructed and replaced with more abstract and unpredictable patterns, creating a sense of instability and disorientation.
• Detailed sound design: Glitch music often features intricate and meticulous sound design, where each sonic element is carefully crafted and manipulated.
• Avant-garde and experimental approach: Glitch embraces experimentation and pushes the boundaries of conventional music production techniques.
• Use of unconventional instruments and techniques: Artists may use modified hardware, software bugs, or other unorthodox methods to generate unique glitch sounds.