Recommendations for Techno: From Classic Masterpieces to Popular Tracks of the 2000s and Beyond
In the early 1980s, techno was born in Detroit as a derivative of house music, which originated in Chicago’s clubs.
Its spirit of innovation has continued to exert a major influence on artists across other genres.
From a music history perspective, electronic music pioneered by artists like Kraftwerk and YMO is undeniably important.
However, in this article, we’ll focus on techno purely as dance music, introducing classic and popular tracks.
We’ve selected a wide range—from well-known classics to standout tracks from the ’90s and ’00s that emerged alongside the genre’s evolution.
If you’re thinking of getting into techno, be sure to check these out!
Recommendation of Techno: From Classic Masterpieces to Popular Tracks Since the 2000s (1–10)
ExtraKen Ishii
When it comes to techno musicians Japan can be proud of on the global stage, many people would immediately name Ken Ishii.
He has been active since the early 1990s, when the techno genre began to gain recognition in Japan, and there’s a well-known story that his releases on European labels spread back to Japan in a kind of reverse import.
His track “Extra,” released in 1995, is famous for its music video animation—a piece that truly showcased the quality of Japanese subculture to the world.
WindowlickerAphex Twin
In the late 1980s, when techno was beginning to establish itself as a genre, Aphex Twin emerged as one of the UK’s cutting-edge techno musicians.
He has released quite experimental music and is known for having many catchy tracks.
Above all, his striking cover art has made a huge impact—so much so that even people who haven’t listened to his music may recognize the jackets.
His musical style is wide-ranging, and it might be interesting to listen through his work in order from the early days to his latest releases.
Born Slippy (Nuxx)Underworld
This is a song that achieved enormous recognition as part of the soundtrack to the 1996 blockbuster film Trainspotting.
The striking synthesizer backing and meticulously crafted beats are beautiful.
Listening to the repeated lyrics makes you feel as if you’re being drawn into a mysterious world.
The song’s structure is quite elaborate; despite relying on the repetition of minimal phrases, it never grows dull and stands as a classic.
Since it became famous alongside the film, I also recommend watching Trainspotting if you want to immerse yourself more deeply in its world.
Strings of Life (Original Mix)Rhythim Is Rhythim, May Day, Derrick May & Mayday
This is Derrick May, regarded as a leading figure in the house subgenre known as Detroit techno.
His music is known for adding a Detroit-style interpretation to the house sound that took off in Chicago in the 1980s.
His track “Strings of Life” is a quintessential Detroit house anthem, notable for its slightly complex rhythms and bold use of string sounds.
It’s a truly fresh and compelling piece, and realizing that a track like this emerged in the ’80s really makes you appreciate the vast potential of techno.
The BellsJeff Mills
In the techno genre, Jeff Mills has established himself as a true legend.
He helped shape Detroit techno in the ’80s and is also known as a leading figure in minimal techno.
His track “The Bells,” released in 1996, fits the minimal techno mold with its lack of major shifts and heavy use of repetition.
His pursuit of electronic music is highly experimental, and many of his performances have been documented—so be sure to check them out!
Knights of the JaguarDJ Rolando
Here is the biggest hit from Detroit techno label Underground Resistance: DJ Rolando’s “Knights of the Jaguar.” It features a dance beat with dramatic developments within the loop.
The tempo is fast, and the track keeps unfolding as it progresses, so even beginners can enjoy it without getting bored.
It’s also fun to listen closely for the DJ’s ideas and wonder what kind of development will come next.
Enfants (chants)Ricardo Villalobos
Enfants is a track that lets you feel its aura the moment you press play.
It’s by Chilean DJ Ricardo Villalobos.
While it’s a piece of minimal techno built around a repeating piano phrase, what truly sets it apart is the vocal that feels almost like folk or traditional music.
Perhaps it reflects his Chilean roots and strong ties to Latin music.
It’s a simple track, yet it carries a sense of message—and at the same time it grooves, inviting you to move and enjoy.