A beginner's guide to electronica

Fans often wander lost in a world of new music.

They hear a song from an unfamiliar genre. They like what they hear, and try to jump head first into new music, bands and songs, like a hiker determined to climb a mountain with no map.

This issue may have stoked your interest in electronica, that previously unknown genre full of beeps and beats. You know you like it, it makes you dance. But you don't know where to start. Here's a little map for you.

KRAFTWERK Kraftwerk marks electronica music at its most basic. Many credit the German quartet with revolutionizing electronic music. The group debuted in the 1970s, playing a new type of music. They combined repetitive, pounding electronic rhythms with catchy, synthesized melodies. The group also wrote topical songs, tackling issues of the times ranging from radioactive waste to the world becoming computerized. Critics have cited Kraftwerk influence in artists ranging from David Bowie to Depche Mode.

DAFT PUNK Daft Punk has received more critical acclaim and album sales than perhaps any other electronica artist. The French duo has even won mainstream success, launching hit singles "One More Time," "Da Funk," and "Harder Better Faster Stronger." Every electronica collection should include Daft Punk. They also thrill crowds with amazing live shows, involving a small army of robots, laser and an extraterrestrial-esque glowing pyramid.

APHEX TWIN Fans once described Aphex Twin as intelligent dance music. The United Kingdom-born musician seems to agree, having dubbed his genre as brain dance. But there's no denying Aphex Twin plays electronic. He probably plays the most unique, textured music among the genre. Never truly crossing into the mainstream, he has consistently created music beloved by fans and critics alike.

DAN DEACON Dan Deacon would play jester if electronica became a kingdom. His debut album, titled "Spiderman of the Rings," makes excellent, danceable music with a light side. His live shows get even nuttier. Deacon has gained a reputation for shows so raucous, that they occasionally cause injury and always result in a good time. Search for his live performance videos on www.youtube.com.

JUSTICE Justice has gained tons of momentum lately. They seem like the natural heir to Daft Punk's electronica thrown. Like Daft Punk, Justice consists of two members both from France. Their music has received early buzz on par with Daft Punk as well. Mainstream crossover seems likely, if not certain. The group has already launched music onto car commercials aired nationally. Check them out now, while you can still claim to have discovered them while they were underground.

Zack Quaintance covers features and entertainment for Festiva. You can reach him at (956) 683-4447