What is Artcore? | Introducing Famous and Classic Artcore Tracks!
Despite being a very niche genre, Artcore has a devoted fanbase.You might be surprised how many people have at least heard the name.In fact, Artcore is a genre with a very vague definition, and there’s an issue where the definition varies from person to person.This time, I’d like to introduce it using the most widely accepted definition: a subgenre centered on drum and bass characterized by a high BPM.I think you’ll get a feel for the definition as you listen to the tracks, so please take your time and enjoy!
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What Is Artcore? | Introducing Artcore’s Masterpieces and Classics! (1–10)
felys (final Remix)onoken
Felys (final Remix) is a standout artcore classic with a sophisticated atmosphere.
Composed by onoken, who is also active in the doujin scene, it’s cherished as a hidden gem among artcore enthusiasts.
The track’s biggest draw is undoubtedly how the drop comes in—not by gradually ramping up the voltage, but by kicking in suddenly with a striking structure.
Though the melody is quiet and electronic, its meticulous detailing makes it exhilarating to listen to.
Perpetual Engine of Azure PrayerUmiai
UmiAi, a member of the doujin creative label Sea Pulse, is one of Japan’s leading artcore artists.
Because artcore tends to blend very well with various genres, its characteristics vary widely from track to track.
Among them, “The Perpetual Engine of Azure Prayers” exudes a distinctly fantasy-like atmosphere: it opens with a gothic rise in the intro, shifts to melodies reminiscent of Final Fantasy in the middle, and culminates with intense, battle-scene-style violins toward the end.
Packed with many elements in a single piece, it’s recommended for those who want a sense of fullness and variety.
99 GloomsSta
Compared to other electronic music, artcore makes heavy use of programmed piano.
“99 Glooms” by Sta, a composer who represents artcore, is a masterpiece that lets you fully savor the genre’s piano.
The charm of this track is, above all, the piano melody in the build-up.
The piano sound design is remarkable and comes across very naturally.
Sta always delivers high-quality tracks—impressive as ever.
LengselRigel Theatre
Rigel Theatre is a group that enjoys immense popularity in the artcore scene.
They’re known for a musical style rooted in folk music, and all of their works consistently exude a fantastical atmosphere.
Lengsel is no exception—its wonderfully crafted, fantasy-tinged tone is especially memorable.
Rigel Theatre’s tracks are remarkably smooth in how their structures bring the beats together, making them exceptionally easy and pleasant to listen to.
If you like folk-influenced music, be sure to check them out.
The RicochetSta
Sta is a designer active on the game Tone Sphere, which mixes a 3D space with music.
While he primarily works as the game’s designer as mentioned above, he is also active as a composer and has released a variety of tracks.
Among them, the Artcore piece I’d especially recommend is The Ricochet.
It’s a high-voltage work, with intense electronic sounds resounding from start to finish.