The Golden Era of House Music: A Comparison with Modern Times
When discussing the quality of '80s house music versus modern house music, the debate is far from clear-cut. The enduring appeal and distinctions of house music from the 1980s provide a rich comparison for today's soundscapes.
Changes in the Dance Music Genre
The dance music genre today is incredibly diverse and sub-categorized, and it's difficult to pinpoint the same clarity and focus that defined the '80s house music scene. The vast array of sub-genres and styles has blurred the boundaries and made it challenging to compare eras directly. Personally, I don't perceive a significant advancement in house music since the '80s. Classic 80s tracks like 'Promised Land' and 'It's Alright Someday' stand out as timeless, with a depth and emotion that feel irreplaceable.
Personal Nostalgia and Perception
The nostalgia for the early house and rave culture of the '80s is often tinted with rose-colored spectacles, leading to a romanticized view of the past. Many who experienced the scene firsthand often feel a sense of loss or longing when comparing modern times to what they remember as the good old days. It's a subjective experience that varies widely from person to person, but this sentiment suggests a significant shift in the perception of the music and culture over time.
Respect for Classic House Music
Despite the nostalgia, there is still a profound respect for house and techno music from the '80s. Contemporary house and techno tracks often incorporate elements of the 'acid' sound and melancholic minor 9th chords, which are reminiscent of the classic era. However, this does not necessarily imply that modern house music is inferior to its '80s counterpart. Instead, it highlights the enduring influence and relevance of early house music.
Advancements in Music Technology and Sound Production
It's a matter of debate whether modern house music, despite its influences, is as good as its '80s predecessor. One compelling argument is that today's producers have access to a wide array of sonic choices that were not available in the '80s. The ease of use in contemporary music technology, such as seamless USB connections and integrated MIDI devices, allows for a more streamlined and efficient production process. The clunkiness of the old SCSI daisy chaining devices and manual MIDI channel assignments are long gone, replaced by more advanced and user-friendly tools.
Evolution of Sound and Opinion
The sound and style of modern house music have certainly evolved. While some purists might argue for a return to the '80s sound, the diverse landscape of contemporary house music offers a new range of creativity and experimentation. Whether this evolution is for better or worse is a subjective opinion. In my experience, if modern house tunes sounded exactly the same as in the '80s, I would have likely stopped listening a long time ago. The evolution of house music reflects the changing tastes and cultural contexts of different eras, and it continues to thrive in its current form.
Conclusion: The question of whether house music in the '80s was better than modern house music is not easily answered. It depends on personal preferences and the perspective from which one views the music. While the '80s will always hold a special place in the hearts of many, the ever-evolving nature of house music ensures its continued relevance and creativity across the decades.