tech house
musical subgenre of house music
Tech house is a captivating blend of driving beats and intricate rhythms, where the pulse of house music meets the precision of techno. Imagine a world where hypnotic basslines weave seamlessly through layered percussive elements, creating an atmosphere that feels both immersive and infectious. The energy ebbs and flows, inviting you to lose yourself on the dancefloor while also providing moments of introspection and groove. This genre thrives on its ability to maintain a steady energy while also experimenting with texture and sound, making it perfect for both late-night raves and intimate gatherings.
Emerging in the early '90s in the UK, tech house developed as producers began to explore the boundaries between house’s warmth and techno’s mechanical precision. It was a response to the burgeoning rave scene, aiming to create tracks that were both accessible and mind-bending. Key figures like Claude VonStroke with his playful yet punchy productions, along with labels such as Dirtybird and seminal albums like Green Velvet's "Constant Chaos," helped define this new sound. By incorporating live instrumentation and eclectic samples, artists began carving out a unique space that pushed against the more traditional confines of electronic music.
For newcomers eager to dive into tech house, start with Carl Cox's "Funk Alive" for its timeless groove that showcases how rhythm can drive emotion. Next, check out Latmun's "Defection," which balances rolling basslines with crisp percussion perfectly suited for any late-night set. Don't overlook Honey Dijon’s "Not About You," where her vocal flair adds depth to the classic tech house vibe. Finally, explore Fisher’s "Losing It" for a taste of how catchy hooks can elevate dance music to another level. And once you've got your footing here, don’t hesitate to explore deeper into minimal tech or deep house for even more inventive sounds.
45 artists in the catalog.
Guides for tech house artists
Top tech house albums
See essentials
All tech house artists
deadmau5
complextro, electro house
Benny Benassi
electro house, electroclash
Afrojack
Dutch house, electro house
Simian Mobile Disco
electronica, pop rock
Eric Prydz
house music, progressive house
Duke Dumont
deep house, electronic dance music
Edward Maya
Eurodance, deep house
Alle Farben
deep house, future house
Global Deejays
house music
Swayzak
jazz house
Alok
Brazilian bass
Dave Seaman
Shift K3Y
EDM trap music, UK garage
Carl Cox
house music, minimal techno
Malaa
bass house, g-house
Route 94
deep house, dubstep
About tech house
What is tech house?
musical subgenre of house music
Where should I start with tech house?
Start with "Deadmau5 E.P." by deadmau5. It captures what makes tech house worth exploring.
What are the best tech house albums?
The tech house albums worth hearing first: "Deadmau5 E.P." by deadmau5, "while(1<2)" by deadmau5, "At Play" by deadmau5, "Meowingtons Hax Tour Trax" by deadmau5 and "Mau5ville: Level 3" by deadmau5.
How many tech house artists are there?
northsound.fm covers 45 tech house artists, each with a recommended starting album and listening path.