What is Otacore and Weirdcore Music Genre? A Guide to Understanding This Unique Style

What is Otacore and Weirdcore Music Genre? This is a question that has been asked more times than we can count. The explanation for this odd music’s inexplicable popularity is no secret: it’s both fascinating and perplexing, enticing and disturbing a large number of people. In this article, we will answer common questions about Otacore and Weirdcore Music Genres, as well as provide some useful tips on how to get into this fascinating genre.

What is Otacore?

Otacore like Hardcore Punk is a style of music that makes use of distorted and glitchy noises, typically with metal or hardcore punk undertones.

The word “Otacore” is a portmanteau of “ota” (Japanese for “outcast”) and “hardcore.” Otacore is sometimes referred to as “Weirdcore” due to its experimental nature.

Notable Otacore artists include Dir En Grey, D’espairsRay, Maximum the Hormone, and Sigh.

It was invented by Spotify and Every Noise At Once project to describe a Japanese outcast music scene that was developing in the early 2000s.

The term was originally employed to describe the music of Dir en grey, a Japanese rock band that became famous in the West during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Dir en grey’s style of music is characterized by its use of distorted and glitchy sounds, often with heavy metal or hardcore punk influences.

What is Otacore?

The band’s lyrics often explore themes of mental illness, social alienation, and existential angst.

Other notable Otacore artists include D’espairsRay, Maximum the Hormone, and Sigh.

The Otacore scene has been growing in popularity in recent years, with more and more artists beginning to experiment with the genre’s unique sound.

Explanation of the Otacore music genre

Otacore is a term used to describe music that is created with the intention of appealing to otaku culture. This includes anime, manga, and video game fans. The word “otaku” itself is often used in a negative light in Japan, but has been reclaimed by many fan communities around the world. [1]

Famous Otacore Artists

There are many famous Otacore artists. Some of them are:

  • Nujabes
  • Shing02
  • Uyama Hiroto
  • Fat Jon
  • MINMI
  • KOHH
  • Dirty South Joe

Nujabes was a Japanese music producer who was greatly influenced by hip hop and jazz. He is regarded as one of the movement’s most significant figures. Shing02 is a Japanese rapper who is best known for his work with Nujabes. Uyama Hiroto is a Japanese musician and composer who has released several solo albums and has collaborated with many other artists. Fat Jon is an American record producer, DJ, and rapper who is a member of the group Five Deez. MINMI is a Japanese singer, songwriter, and rapper who is best known for her hit single “The Perfect Vision”. KOHH is a Japanese rapper and record producer who is signed to the label Topshelf Records. Dirty South Joe is an American music producer and DJ who has released several albums and EPs.

Otacore artists often incorporate elements of hip hop, jazz, electronic music, rock, and other genres into their music. This creates a unique and sometimes strange sound that can be hard to categorize. If you’re looking for something new and different, check out some Otacore artists! You might just find your new favorite band or musician.

Weirdcore music genre explanation

Weirdcore music is often described as “weird” or “strange”, but it can also be beautiful and moving. It is a very diverse genre, with artists experimenting with different sounds and styles. Some of the most popular Weirdcore artists include Grimes, Perturbator, and HEALTH.

The term “Weirdcore” was coined to describe home recordings and extreme noise that were produced or modified in a manner intended to convey feelings of befuddlement, disorientation, estrangement, and nostalgia.

Weirdcore artists often use these sounds to create dark, atmospheric tracks with a heavy emphasis on rhythm and melody. [2]

Famous Weirdcore Artists

Some of the most famous Weirdcore artists include Flying Lotus, Aphex Twin, and TOBACCO. These artists are known for their experimental and avant-garde approach to music production, which often results in bizarre and unpredictable soundscapes.

Famous Weirdcore Artists

Weirdcore is also popular among a number of underground electronic music scenes, such as the IDM (Intelligent Dance Music) and glitch hop communities.

J-pop, J-rock, Nightcore and more

The world of Otacore and Weirdcore music can be confusing for newcomers. In this guide, we’ll answer some common questions about this unique style of music, including what it is, where it came from, and how to get into it.

Otacore is a subgenre of electronic music that originated in Japan. It is characterized by its use of heavy distorted guitars, aggressive vocals, and often dark or melancholic themes.

Weirdcore is a subgenre of electronic music that originated in the early 2000s. It is characterized by its use of strange or unsettling sounds, often created with found objects or field recordings. It often has a dark or creepy atmosphere.

Nightcore is a type of music that originated in the early 2000s. It is characterized by its use of sped-up vocals and distorted synths. It often has a happy or energetic feel to it.

J-pop, J-rock, and visual kei are all popular genres of music in Japan that have influenced Otacore and Weirdcore. Visual kei is a style of music and fashion that is characterized by dramatic visuals, often including excessive makeup, costumes, and hair styles. [3]

Some popular Nightcore artists include:

  • Aiobahn
  • ALICE’S EMOTION
  • Ayase
  • Dance With The Dead
  • DEAF KEBAB
  • DJ Sona
  • Ekowraith
  • F.O.O.L
  • Getter
  • Gigantor
  • Some popular J-pop, J-rock artists include:
  • ACIDMAN
  • The Gazette
  • Maximum the Hormone
  • One Ok Rock

Otacore Fanbase

The Otacore fanbase is a passionate and ever-growing community. It’s not uncommon to see fans of the genre donning cosplay or engaging in other creative pursuits. The music itself often reflects this DIY culture, with many artists self-releasing their work.

Otacore and Weirdcore are terms that are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between the two genres. Weirdcore is more experimental and avant-garde, while Otacore tends to be more structured and song-based.

Themes of mental illness, loneliness, and alienation are common in Weirdcore music. Otacore artists may touch on these topics as well, but they also often write about otaku culture, Japanese history, and other nerdy interests.

Otacore and Weirdcore music often features distorted vocals, heavy use of samples, and experimental production techniques. If you’re a fan of electronic music, chances are you’ll enjoy at least some Otacore or Weirdcore artists.

Some well-known Otacore and Weirdcore artists include Hitorie, Reol, 40mP, Nhato, DECO*27, kemu, kz (livetune), ClearVeil, KOKIA, Neru, Hatsune Miku, GUMI… the list goes on!

Otacore Fanbase

If you’re interested in exploring these genres further, we highly recommend checking out some of the artists we listed above.

Otacore and Weirdcore Genres

Otacore is a subgenre of electronic music that has its origins in hardcore punk and breakcore. It is characterized by its fast tempo, distorted bass, and aggressive lyrics. Weirdcore is a subgenre of electronic music that is characterized by its use of strange, distorted, or unsettling sounds. It often features elements of glitchy beats, dark ambience, and industrial noise. Both genres are often associated with the darknet and underground culture.

Otacore and Weirdcore artists often explore themes of alienation, anxiety, and paranoia in their music. This can be seen in the lyrics of Dalek’s “Escape from Planet Earth,” which tell the story of an alien who is stranded on a hostile planet. Similarly, Venetian Snares’ “Nyarlathotep” is named after a Lovecraftian deity who represents chaos and destruction. Hecate’s “Witch Hunt” is a dark and eerie track that makes use of distorted vocals and industrial noise.

While Otacore and Weirdcore music can be unsettling, it can also be oddly beautiful and moving. Cex’s “Your Ad Here” is a good example of this, as it features glitchy beats and ethereal melodies. Enduser’s “Two Minutes to Midnight” is another great track that combines elements of hardcore punk and breakcore with delicate ambience. Bong-Ra’s “Kingdom of the Worm” is a dark and heavy track that features pounding drums and haunting synth lines.

Unveiling Otacore and Weirdcore: Exploring Unique Music Genres

Discovering distinctive music genres like Otacore and Weirdcore can be a fascinating journey. Here’s a comparison of these genres, including their origins, characteristics, and notable artists.

Genre Origins Characteristics Notable Artists
Otacore Emerging from the Japanese “otaku” subculture, influenced by anime, manga, and video game themes. Features high-energy electronic beats, anime-inspired lyrics, and often hyperactive vocals. KOTOKO, DJ Sharpnel, and TeddyLoid are prominent figures in Otacore.
Weirdcore Rooted in experimental and avant-garde music, with influences from surrealism and the absurd. Known for its eccentric soundscapes, unconventional instruments, and abstract lyrics. Artists like Captain Beefheart, The Residents, and Ariel Pink have explored Weirdcore elements.

Explanation of the Table:

  • Genre: Identifies the unique music genres, Otacore and Weirdcore.
  • Origins: Describes the cultural and artistic influences that shaped each genre.
  • Characteristics: Highlights the defining musical features of Otacore and Weirdcore.
  • Notable Artists: Lists artists who have contributed significantly to each genre.

Otacore, originating from the Japanese otaku subculture, channels the vibrant world of anime, manga, and video games into its music. It’s characterized by energetic electronic beats, lyrics inspired by anime themes, and often hyperactive vocals. Artists like KOTOKO, DJ Sharpnel, and TeddyLoid are celebrated within this genre.

On the other hand, Weirdcore draws inspiration from experimental and avant-garde music, embracing elements of surrealism and the absurd. It’s known for its eccentric soundscapes, unconventional instrumentation, and abstract lyrical content. Visionary artists like Captain Beefheart, The Residents, and Ariel Pink have ventured into the realm of Weirdcore.

Exploring Otacore and Weirdcore offers a glimpse into unique and unconventional musical worlds, each with its own captivating allure.


FAQ

What is the Weirdcore Spotify genre?

The Weirdcore Spotify genre is a collection of music that doesn’t quite fit into any one specific genre. It’s a mix of electronic, experimental, and ambient sounds that create a unique listening experience.

If you’re looking for something new to listen to, or just want to explore the weird and wonderful world of Weirdcore, then this guide is for you![4]

What music artists are Weirdcore?

There are many artists that could be considered Weirdcore, but some of the most popular include Aphex Twin, Death Grips, and Flying Lotus. All of these artists have created music that is experimental, abstract, and often difficult to categorize.

Weirdcore is a relatively new genre, so it’s still evolving and being defined by its pioneers. As more artists experiment with its possibilities, the sound of Weirdcore will continue to evolve.

What music artists are Weirdcore?

If you’re looking for something truly unique and avant-garde, give Weirdcore a try. You might just find your new favorite genre!

What songs are considered Weirdcore?

There’s no real answer to that, as Weirdcore is such a new and experimental genre that artists are still experimenting with what sounds can be considered part of the style. However, some popular Weirdcore songs include “Bury Me Alive” by Vektroid, “Necromancer” by Death Grips, and “Grave New World” by Clipping.

Weirdcore is still very much an evolving genre, so it’s hard to say what will become of it in the future. However, one thing is for sure: it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. So if you’re looking for something new and exciting to listen to, be sure to check out some Weirdcore music! You might just find your new favorite genre.

What is the Dream SMP genre?

The Dream SMP is a sub-genre of music that is characterized by its dark, often eerie, and foreboding sound. It usually features heavy use of synthesizers and drum machines, as well as distorted or processed vocals. [5]

Dream SMP artists often explore themes such as mental illness, suicide, addiction, and self-harm in their music. The genre has been criticized for glamorizing these topics; however, many artists argue that they are simply trying to create honest art that reflects their own experiences with these issues.

If you’re interested in exploring the Dream SMP genre, we recommend checking out some of the following artists: Crystal Castles, Purity Ring, Grimes, Halsey, and Lana Del Rey.

What to listen to?

Otacore and Weirdcore music can be found in a variety of places, but the best way to get started is by listening to some of the most popular artists in the genre. Some of these artists include:

  • Dalek
  • Venetian Snares
  • Hecate
  • Cex
  • Enduser
  • Bong-Ra
  • Speedranch & Jeckel

These are just a few of the many artists that create Otacore and Weirdcore music. You can find more by doing a simple search online. Additionally, there are several compilations and mix CDs available that feature a variety of Otacore and Weirdcore tracks. These are often a good way to get introduced to the genre and find new artists to listen to.

Finally, don’t forget to check out some of the many Otacore and Weirdcore radio stations that are available online. These stations often feature a mix of both well-known and up-and-coming artists in the genre, so you’re sure to find something you like.

With so much great Otacore and Weirdcore music out there, it’s easy to get started exploring this unique and fascinating genre. So what are you waiting for? Start listening today!

What defines the Otacore music genre?

Otacore is a niche music genre that combines elements of anime and manga culture with various musical styles. It often features lyrics and themes inspired by anime series, and the music can range from electronic and pop to rock and hip-hop, making it a diverse and unique genre.

How did the Otacore music genre originate?

The Otacore music genre originated from the “otaku” subculture, which refers to passionate fans of anime, manga, and related hobbies. Musicians and artists who identify with this subculture began creating music that resonated with their interests, leading to the development of Otacore as a distinct genre.

What are some key characteristics of Weirdcore music?

Weirdcore is a genre known for its experimental and avant-garde nature. It often incorporates unconventional sounds, bizarre imagery, and abstract themes into the music and visuals. Weirdcore artists aim to push the boundaries of traditional music and create a surreal and immersive experience for listeners.

What are some examples of Weirdcore music artists?

While there is no fixed list of Weirdcore artists, some experimental musicians and bands like Aphex Twin, Arca, and Oneohtrix Point Never have been associated with the genre due to their unique and boundary-pushing musical styles.

How can I explore Otacore and Weirdcore music?

To explore Otacore and Weirdcore music, you can start by searching for artists and tracks on streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Look for playlists and online communities dedicated to these genres, as they often feature a curated selection of music that can help you discover new and exciting sounds.

What distinguishes Weirdcore from other experimental music genres?

Weirdcore stands out from other experimental genres due to its strong visual and audio aesthetic. It often incorporates surreal and glitchy visuals in addition to its unconventional music, creating a multimedia experience that challenges traditional artistic boundaries.

Are there any events or festivals dedicated to Otacore and Weirdcore music?

While these genres may not have dedicated festivals, you can find events and conventions related to anime, manga, and experimental music where Otacore and Weirdcore artists may perform or be featured. Checking out such events can be a great way to experience these genres live.

What makes Otacore and Weirdcore appealing to listeners?

Otacore and Weirdcore appeal to listeners who appreciate the fusion of artistic and cultural elements. They provide a unique and immersive experience that resonates with those interested in anime, manga, experimental music, and unconventional forms of expression.

Useful Video: Understanding The Meaning of Weirdcore

Conclusion

Otacore and Weirdcore music are two genres that are often lumped together because of their experimental nature. However, they are distinct styles with their own unique sonic signatures. If you’re looking to explore the weird and wonderful world of avant-garde music, then these two genres are a great place to start. Thanks for reading!


References:

  1. https://www.dualshockers.com/what-is-otacore-and-weirdcore-music-genre/
  2. https://game-news24.com/2021/12/01/what-is-the-otacore-and-weirdcore-music/
  3. https://screenshot-media.com/visual-cultures/internet-culture/what-is-otacore/
  4. https://spotify-top.com/genre/weirdcore
  5. https://thebytenews.com/what-is-dream-smp-music-genre-on-spotify-wrapped/