If you’re a fan of experimental electronic music, you’re likely familiar with the groundbreaking work of Arca. Known for her innovative soundscapes and genre-defying productions, Arca has inspired a new wave of artists who push the boundaries of electronic music. Here are 18 bands and artists similar to Arca that you should definitely check out.
1. Oneohtrix Point Never
Oneohtrix Point Never, the project of Daniel Lopatin, is renowned for its avant-garde approach to electronic music. Albums like “Replica” and “Garden of Delete” showcase his ability to blend ambient, noise, and glitch elements into cohesive, thought-provoking pieces.
2. FKA twigs
FKA twigs combines ethereal vocals with experimental production to create a unique sound. Her albums “LP1” and “Magdalene” are critically acclaimed for their innovative use of electronic beats and haunting melodies.
3. SOPHIE
The late SOPHIE was a pioneer in the hyperpop genre, known for her futuristic production and boundary-pushing sound. Tracks like “BIPP” and the album “Oil of Every Pearl’s Un-Insides” are essential listening for any fan of experimental electronic music.
4. Holly Herndon
Holly Herndon merges cutting-edge technology with human elements to create her unique sound. Albums like “Platform” and “PROTO” explore themes of artificial intelligence and digital culture through experimental compositions.
5. Bjork
Bjork has been a staple in the experimental music scene for decades, blending electronic, pop, and classical elements. Albums like “Homogenic” and “Vespertine” are masterpieces that showcase her innovative approach to music.
6. A.G. Cook
A.G. Cook, the founder of the PC Music label, is known for his hyperpop productions. His album “7G” is a sprawling, ambitious project that pushes the boundaries of electronic music.
7. Yves Tumor
Yves Tumor blends experimental electronic with elements of rock and soul. Albums like “Safe in the Hands of Love” and “Heaven to a Tortured Mind” are critically acclaimed for their genre-defying sound.
8. Amnesia Scanner
Amnesia Scanner is known for their chaotic and abrasive soundscapes. The album “Another Life” is a prime example of their ability to blend noise, industrial, and electronic elements into a cohesive whole.
9. Lotic
Lotic’s music is a blend of experimental electronic and club music. Albums like “Heterocetera” and “Power” are known for their innovative production and emotional depth.
10. Klein
Klein’s experimental approach to music often incorporates elements of noise and avant-garde. Her album “Lifetime” is a complex, layered work that challenges traditional notions of genre.
11. Eartheater
Eartheater, the project of Alexandra Drewchin, combines ethereal vocals with experimental production. Albums like “IRISIRI” and “Trinity” showcase her ability to blend electronic, folk, and classical elements.
12. Jlin
Jlin is known for her innovative take on footwork, a genre of electronic dance music. Albums like “Black Origami” and “Dark Energy” are celebrated for their complex rhythms and experimental soundscapes.
13. Dean Blunt
Dean Blunt’s work spans multiple genres, including experimental electronic, R&B, and hip-hop. Albums like “Black Metal” and “The Redeemer” are known for their genre-blending and innovative production.
14. Laurel Halo
Laurel Halo’s music often incorporates elements of techno, ambient, and experimental electronic. Albums like “Quarantine” and “Dust” are critically acclaimed for their unique sound and innovative production.
15. Fever Ray
Fever Ray, the solo project of Karin Dreijer, is known for its dark, atmospheric sound. The self-titled debut album and “Plunge” are celebrated for their haunting vocals and experimental production.
16. Gazelle Twin
Gazelle Twin’s music blends dark electronic with elements of industrial and experimental. Albums like “Unflesh” and “Pastoral” are known for their eerie soundscapes and thought-provoking themes.
17. Arca
Arca herself continues to push the boundaries of experimental electronic music. Albums like “Mutant” and “Kick I” showcase her unique ability to blend genres and create innovative soundscapes.
18. Sevdaliza
Sevdaliza combines electronic production with elements of trip-hop and R&B. Albums like “ISON” and “Shabrang” are celebrated for their emotional depth and innovative sound.