Music Genres
Everything published on Viyolens under Music Genres — reviews, buying advice and how-tos written for players and producers in the UK.
A Beginner's Guide to Ska Music
Faster than reggae, older than punk's version of it, and horn-led from the start. Here's what this genre actually is and where its revivals came from.
A Beginner's Guide to Rap Music
More than talking over a beat — here's what rap music actually is, where it came from, and how to start hearing what separates good from great.
The Best Funk Music Songs Right Now
These funk songs don't need a trending moment. Here are the tracks that have earned permanent rotation, and what makes each one work.
The Best Ragtime Songs Right Now
Seven ragtime pieces that have stayed genuinely alive and defining for over a century, from Maple Leaf Rag to the underplayed Harlem Rag.
The Best Indie Music Artists to Know
From The Smiths to Phoebe Bridgers, here's a practical map of the artists behind every corner of indie music, grouped by what they actually do.
A Beginner's Guide to Ragtime
Steady bass, syncopated melody: a clear, unhurried explanation of what ragtime actually is, how it's built, and where it came from.
Cloud Rap Subgenres, Explained
A guide to the subgenres and related styles adjacent to cloud rap: witch house, emo rap, lo-fi hip hop, Drain Gang's hyperpop fusion and Memphis rap roots.
Music Genres is filed under
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Black Metal
Black metal is an extreme metal style built on speed, harsh vocals, dense guitars and dark atmosphere.
Blues Music
Blues music is a roots tradition built on expressive phrasing, storytelling and strong rhythmic feel.
1 topic
Drum and Bass
Choose drum and bass gear for fast drums, deep bass and precise, high-energy UK production.
2 topics
Heavy Metal
Heavy metal combines powerful riffs, heavy drums and dramatic vocals for a loud, precise rock sound.
2 topics
Indie Music
Indie music covers independent-minded artists and scene-led sounds with DIY spirit, character and crossover appeal.
K Pop
Polished, performance-led pop with global influence, slick production and strong visual identity.
1 topic
Prog Rock
Complex, ambitious rock with extended structures, intricate musicianship and layered arrangements.
Reggae Music
Reggae music is built on groove, bass and spacious rhythm. Shop gear for warm low end, echo-rich production and live per...
