Electronica

From hardcore to classical, most genre terms tend to sound self-congratulatory. “Intelligent dance music,” though, really breaks new ground in back-patting contortionism. Basically, the IDM realm includes computer-created compositions and other electronically enhanced symphonies. What distinguishes these tunes from techno — and what makes the “dance” part of the description highly dubious — is that IDM tracks seldom establish a steady beat. Instead, erratic percussive patterns interact obliquely, and seemingly formless pieces become whole before detonating and scattering sonic shards. IDM cuts don’t get a lot of spins on the club scene, and many of its artists would rather experiment in their studios than tour, so it’s rare to hear this style of music in a live setting. Fortunately, at Electronica, enthusiasts can nod arhythmically to works from numerous composers, including Jim Mobberley, Julia Wolfe, Michael Daugherty and Mark Monnet. With a performance-art element involved, this production figures to be much more lively than the average push-button performance.