Aphex Twin

Aphex Twin
source
Name	Aphex Twin
Birth name	Richard D. James
Birth date	August 18, 1968
Birth place	Limerick, Ireland
Occupation	Musician, composer, producer
Genre	Electronic, IDM, techno, ambient

Aphex Twin is a renowned electronic musician, born as Richard D. James in Limerick, Ireland, and raised in Cornwall, England. He is often associated with the IDM (Intelligent Dance Music) genre, which emerged in the 1990s, alongside artists like Autechre and Squarepusher. Aphex Twin's unique sound has been influenced by a wide range of artists, including Kraftwerk, Brian Eno, and The Velvet Underground. His music has been released on various labels, such as Warp Records, Rephlex Records, and Rough Trade Records.

Biography

Aphex Twin was born to Lorna James and Derek James, and grew up in a musical family, with his father being a musician and his mother a singer. He began making music at a young age, experimenting with synthesizers and drum machines. Aphex Twin's early influences included Tangerine Dream, Can, and The Residents. He attended Redruth School in Cornwall, where he met his future collaborator, Tom Middleton. In the late 1980s, Aphex Twin moved to London and became involved in the city's thriving electronic music scene, alongside artists like The Prodigy and The Chemical Brothers.

Music Style and Influences

Aphex Twin's music style is characterized by its eclecticism and experimentation, incorporating elements of techno, ambient, and breakcore. His influences range from classical music composers like Igor Stravinsky and Karlheinz Stockhausen to jazz musicians like John Coltrane and Miles Davis. Aphex Twin has also cited hip hop artists like Public Enemy and The Beastie Boys as influences, as well as industrial music pioneers like Throbbing Gristle and Cabaret Voltaire. His music often features complex rhythms and time signatures, as well as innovative use of audio processing techniques.

Discography

Aphex Twin has released numerous albums, including Selected Ambient Works 85-92, Selected Ambient Works Volume II, and Richard D. James Album. His discography also includes several EPs and singles, such as Xtal, Windowlicker, and Come to Daddy. Aphex Twin has collaborated with other artists, including Autechre, Squarepusher, and Venetian Snares. He has also released music under various pseudonyms, such as AFX and Polygon Window. Aphex Twin's music has been featured in various films and television shows, including Pi, Requiem for a Dream, and Twin Peaks.

Live Performances

Aphex Twin is known for his energetic and unpredictable live performances, which often feature complex lighting and visual effects. He has performed at various festivals, including Glastonbury Festival, Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, and Sónar. Aphex Twin has also toured with other artists, such as Radiohead and Bjork. His live shows often feature a mix of electronic music and visual art, with Aphex Twin incorporating elements of performance art and installation art into his performances.

Awards and Legacy

Aphex Twin has won numerous awards for his music, including the Mercury Prize for Selected Ambient Works 85-92. He has been nominated for several Grammy Awards and has won awards from NME and The Wire. Aphex Twin's influence can be heard in the music of many other artists, including Four Tet, Burial, and Flying Lotus. He has been cited as an inspiration by artists like Daft Punk, Justice, and Skrillex. Aphex Twin's legacy continues to grow, with his music remaining a major influence on the electronic music scene. Category:Electronic musicians