Barry Can’t Swim and the Rise of the Curated Electronic Experience
Barry Can’t Swim, the Scottish electronic producer Joshua Mainnie, is the latest artist to take the reins of the esteemed ‘Late Night Tales’ compilation series. This isn’t just a release of music; it’s a signpost pointing towards a significant trend in how we consume and experience electronic music – a move towards deeply curated, emotionally resonant journeys rather than simply playlists or club sets.
The Power of the Curator in a Streaming World
In an age saturated with streaming services offering infinite choice, paradoxically, curation is becoming increasingly valuable. Algorithms can suggest songs based on listening history, but they lack the human touch, the narrative arc, and the emotional intelligence of a skilled curator. ‘Late Night Tales’, which boasts a lineage including Four Tet, Fatboy Slim, and Jon Hopkins, has always understood this. It’s about more than just a collection of tracks; it’s about a mood, a story, a feeling.
This trend extends beyond compilation albums. Look at the success of independent radio stations like Worldwide FM, founded by Gilles Peterson, or the growing popularity of artist-led radio shows on platforms like BBC Radio 6 Music. Listeners are actively seeking out trusted voices to guide them through the vast musical landscape. A 2023 report by Luminate Data showed a 15% increase in listeners tuning into curated radio shows compared to algorithmic playlists.
Beyond the Dancefloor: Emotional Range in Electronic Music
Barry Can’t Swim’s approach, as highlighted in the NME article, emphasizes a broader emotional palette than purely dancefloor-focused tracks. He describes a “Spotify playlist that’s called Barry Can’t Curate” – a space for experimentation and exploration outside the constraints of a typical DJ set. This reflects a wider shift within electronic music itself.
For years, electronic music was often categorized by genre – house, techno, drum and bass – and judged primarily on its functionality for dancing. Now, artists are increasingly blurring those lines, incorporating elements of ambient, jazz, and even classical music to create more complex and emotionally nuanced soundscapes. Artists like Floating Points and Bonobo have pioneered this approach, achieving both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Pro Tip: Don’t underestimate the power of emotional connection. When creating or curating electronic music, think about the story you want to tell and the feelings you want to evoke.
The Resurgence of Long-Form Listening
The ‘Late Night Tales’ format – a continuous mix designed for immersive listening – is also a counterpoint to the fragmented nature of modern music consumption. We’re accustomed to skipping tracks, shuffling playlists, and constantly seeking novelty. Long-form mixes encourage a different kind of engagement – a willingness to surrender to the flow of the music and allow it to unfold over time.
This ties into a broader cultural trend towards mindfulness and intentionality. People are increasingly seeking experiences that allow them to disconnect from the constant stimulation of the digital world and reconnect with themselves. Long-form listening, whether it’s a curated mix, a concept album, or a live performance, can provide that space for contemplation and immersion.
The Future of Electronic Music Curation
Several trends suggest this curated approach will continue to gain momentum:
- AI-Assisted Curation: While human curators will remain essential, AI could play a role in identifying tracks that align with an artist’s aesthetic or a specific mood.
- Immersive Audio Experiences: The rise of spatial audio and virtual reality will create new opportunities for immersive listening experiences, further enhancing the power of curation.
- Community-Driven Curation: Platforms that allow users to create and share their own curated playlists, with a focus on quality and discovery, will become increasingly popular.
- Hybrid Events: Combining live performances with curated visual elements and immersive sound design will create unique and unforgettable experiences.
Did you know? The term “chillwave,” a microgenre popular in the late 2000s, emerged as a reaction against the intensity of mainstream electronic music, emphasizing atmospheric textures and nostalgic vibes – a clear precursor to the current focus on emotional depth.
FAQ
Q: What is ‘Late Night Tales’?
A: It’s a long-running series of artist-curated mix compilations, known for its high quality and eclectic selections.
Q: Why is curation important in the age of streaming?
A: Curation provides a human touch and narrative that algorithms can’t replicate, helping listeners discover music they might otherwise miss.
Q: Is electronic music becoming less focused on dancing?
A: While dancefloor-focused music remains popular, there’s a growing trend towards more emotionally complex and atmospheric electronic music.
Q: What role will AI play in music curation?
A: AI could assist curators by identifying relevant tracks, but human expertise will remain crucial for creating truly compelling experiences.
Barry Can’t Swim’s contribution to the ‘Late Night Tales’ series is more than just a mix; it’s a reflection of a broader shift in how we listen to and experience electronic music. It’s a reminder that in a world of infinite choice, the power of a skilled curator – and a deeply felt emotional connection – is more valuable than ever.
Explore more: Check out our article on the evolving landscape of independent radio or the impact of spatial audio on music production.
Join the conversation: What are your favorite curated music experiences? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
