Recommendations for Techno: From Classic Masterpieces to Popular Tracks of the 2000s and Beyond

ClearCybotron

Clear

Juan Atkins, an early-career project.

Among Detroit techno fans, it’s an anthem.

If it drops unexpectedly, the floor will erupt in joy! The programming isn’t your typical four-on-the-floor—there’s a kind of cyber-funk feel to it, with beat-making that even connects to Afrika Bambaataa.

It’s a legendary track, and many artists have paid homage to him.

Among them, France’s Surkin stands out.

Be sure to check out his ‘Surkin USA.

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EntropieEfdemin

Entropie

Philipp Sollmann, better known as Efdemin, is also highly popular in Japan.

A richly talented artist drawing worldwide attention in the minimal techno and ambient house scenes, he has been active on labels such as Ellen Allien’s BPitch Control and Aus, where he has released numerous deep house classics.

Temper TemperGoldie

Goldie – Temper Temper (Official Music Video)

In the 1990s—often called the golden age of techno—electronic music greatly expanded its possibilities, giving rise to many subgenres.

Drum and bass, so-called, is one of them.

Evolving from a genre known as jungle, it’s characterized by complex breakbeat-based rhythms, hard-edged sound design, and a faster tempo compared to other club music.

This strays a bit from the focus of this article, but as an emblematic crossover track of the ’90s, I’d like to introduce Temper Temper.

It’s a classic released in 1998 by Goldie, a leading figure in drum and bass, featuring Noel Gallagher of Oasis as a guest—be sure to check it out, including its strikingly intense music video!

Plastic DreamsJay Dee

Jaydee – Plastic Dreams [1993] (Official Video)

Jay Dee, aka The Chemistry.

An early masterpiece from the UK techno label R&S Records.

With a highly funk-infused, unconstrained approach to techno, it remains a timeless classic.

This track is also regarded as a classic anthem, and I’m sure there are people who still go wild on the dance floor when it drops!

Domina (Maurizio Mix Edit)Maurizio

Domina (Maurizio Mix Edit)

A pivotal figure who led Basic Channel and left behind numerous classic dub techno works.

While many releases on this label are beautiful soundscapes, in today’s digital-dominated era their dynamics tend to be so rich that, compared to recent techno, the low-end balance can make them harder to play on the floor.

This track, however, is relatively easy to use.

It may be tough for peak-time, but many DJs have likely relied on it for openings and similar moments.

Confusion (Pump Panel Reconstruction Mix)New Order

Confusion (Pump Panel Reconstruction Mix)

When it comes to bands that developed the New Wave scene, this UK group, New Order, stands out.

This track was remixed and produced by New York DJ Arthur Baker.

Incorporating acid house techniques, it was crafted to be more floor-oriented, and it was also used to set the tone in the opening scene of the film “Blood.” Among New Order’s works, this is a track particularly highly regarded as techno.