Since its inception in the early 1980s, techno has been on the rise around the world. Producers, like Aphex Twins, Plastikman and Fluke, pioneered the genre, laying down some of the most expressive technology-driven sounds to this day. And, newer artists, like Andreas Rund, Adrian Wreck and Chambray, have followed in their footsteps.
Contemporary techno, however, wouldn’t be where it is today without its forefathers. That being said, we’re revisiting a selection of 90s techno songs that’ll bring you back to the early days of this incredible genre. Tune in below as we feature songs from Model 500, Leftfield and more.
90s Techno Songs List:
- Fluke – Absurd
- The Prodigy – Charly (Alley Cat Remix)
- Jeff Mills – Cyclone
- Joey Beltram – Energy Flash
- Plastikman – Helikopter
- Model 500 – Milky Way
- Orbital – Petrol
- Ben Long – Potential 002 (Umek Remix)
- Leftfield – Song Of Life
- Outlander – Vamp
Absurd
To start off this list, we have English music act, Fluke. Known for their fusion of acid house and techno, the group arguably championed the techno movement from the late 1980s to present-day. Their single, Absurd, is definitely one to add to the collection. Out now via Virgin Catalogue.
Charly (Alley Cat Remix)
We know that you’ve heard of The Prodigy. But, have you listened to Alley Cat’s remix of their 1992 release, Charly? If not, you’ve been missing out. It’s jam-packed with ominous leads, hoover synths and vintage rhythms that’ll make you want to dance all night long. Available now via XL Recordings.
Cyclone
Jeff Mills is one of the most reputable American acts in the techno scene. If there’s anyone on this list you need to remember, Mills is the name to know. Ever listen to his single, Cyclone? Simply put, it’s one of the most hypnotizing metallic grooves we’ve ever heard.
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Energy Flash
When you first hear Joey Beltram’s Energy Flash, you might notice that it oddly resembles the intro to Technotronic’s Pump Up The Jam. However, the two songs deliver very different stories. While the Technotronic single is hip hop and breakbeat-inspired, Beltram’s release delivers a wave of transformative sounds and menacing leads that are second to none. Out now via R&S Records.
Helikopter
What would techno be without Canadian DJ/producer, Richie Hawtin, also known as Plastikman? Well, we’re not quite sure. But, one thing is certain: Plastikman’s Helikopter is filled with futuristic energy that will last for the ages. Available now via Minus.
Milky Way
Galactic spirit, low-key melodies and explorational tones – those are the first themes that come to mind when listening to Model 500’s Milky Way. Fan of Laidback Luke? Then, you’ll definitely enjoy this one. Out now via R&S Records.
Petrol
It’s about time for dance’s coolest genre to bounce back. That’s exactly why we had to feature techno breaks single, Petrol, by production talent, Orbital. The single sounds as if someone merged an early Pendulum release with a Richie Hawtin track and we love it. Available now via Rhino/London-Sire.
Potential 002 (Umek Remix)
If you don’t know who Umek is, stop reading and head over to Umek’s website – you’re in for a treat. For those who do know Umek, get ready for your nostalgia to set in. The Slovenian composer’s remix of Potential 002 is a quintessential techno track for all electronic music lovers and it just screams 90s techno. Out now via Potential Recordings.
Song Of Life
Sinister energy is strong in Leftfield’s track, Song Of Life. It’s best characterized by its sophisticated leads, tense melodies, angelic backdrops and metamorphic grooves. What more could you ask for? Out now via Sony Music.
Vamp
And, to round out our list, we have industrial techno act, Outlander. In five minutes alone, the UK-based group delivers a fusion of modern-sounding Detroit techno rhythms in hit single, Vamp. Really, we can only describe the track as an eclectic meeting between futurism and tribal funk. Available via R&S Records.
Looking for more 90s techno songs? Check out Boys Noize’s remix of Mouth To Mouth by Audion.