Röyksopp – What Else Is There (Schranz Remix)

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for AudioLover.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Röyksopp is a Norwegian electronic music duo known for their unique blend of ambient, downtempo, and synthpop sounds. With their infectious melodies and atmospheric production, they have become a prominent name in the electronic music scene. One of their standout tracks, “What Else Is There,” has garnered praise for its haunting vocals and mesmerizing composition.

However, what many people may not be aware of is the existence of a Schranz Remix of “What Else Is There.” This remix takes the original track and transforms it into a high-energy, techno-infused masterpiece. It adds a new layer of intensity and a driving beat that propels the listener into a whole different sonic experience.

In this article, we will delve into the background of Röyksopp, provide an overview of the original track “What Else Is There,” explore what exactly a Schranz Remix entails, analyze the elements that make the Schranz Remix stand out, and discuss its reception and impact on the electronic music community.

So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of Röyksopp’s “What Else Is There” and its Schranz Remix, let’s get started!

Background of Röyksopp

Röyksopp is a Norwegian electronic music duo comprised of Svein Berge and Torbjørn Brundtland. They formed in the late 1990s in Bergen, Norway and quickly gained recognition for their unique sound and innovative approach to electronic music.

Berge and Brundtland met while studying at the same university and discovered their shared passion for electronic music. They began experimenting with synthesizers and computers, blending ambient and downtempo elements with catchy melodies and intricate beats.

The duo gained initial attention with their debut album, “Melody A.M.,” in 2001. The album featured the hit single “Eple,” which showcased their ability to create infectious tunes that resonated with a wide audience. The success of “Melody A.M.” propelled Röyksopp into the international spotlight and solidified their position as pioneers in the electronic music genre.

Since then, Röyksopp has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “The Understanding” (2005) and “Junior” (2009), which further established their signature sound. They have collaborated with various artists, such as Robyn and Karin Dreijer Andersson of The Knife, and have garnered numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations and multiple wins at the Norwegian Grammy Awards.

What sets Röyksopp apart from other electronic music acts is their ability to create immersive sonic landscapes that evoke a range of emotions. Their music seamlessly blends elements of pop, ambient, and electronica, creating a truly unique and captivating sound.

Beyond their musical achievements, Röyksopp are also known for their visually stunning live performances and music videos. They have a keen eye for artistic aesthetics and often collaborate with designers and directors to create mesmerizing visual experiences that complement their music.

With their captivating soundscapes, innovative approach to electronic music, and visually striking performances, Röyksopp has solidified their status as one of the most influential and respected electronic music acts of the 21st century.

Overview of “What Else Is There”

“What Else Is There” is a standout track from Röyksopp’s critically acclaimed album, “The Understanding,” released in 2005. It features haunting vocals by Karin Dreijer Andersson of the Swedish duo The Knife, adding an ethereal and mysterious quality to the song.

The track starts with a mesmerizing synth melody that sets the melancholic tone of the song. The atmospheric production, layered with deep basslines and intricate beats, creates a dreamlike sonic landscape. The lyrics, exploring themes of longing and isolation, are delivered with Andersson’s unique and captivating vocal style.

One of the defining features of “What Else Is There” is the memorable chorus, with Andersson’s vocals soaring over the pulsating electronic soundscape. The juxtaposition of the introspective lyrics and the infectious melody creates a powerful and emotionally charged listening experience.

The track received widespread acclaim from critics and was praised for its innovative blend of electronic elements and pop sensibilities. It resonated with listeners, becoming one of Röyksopp’s most popular songs and reaching high positions on the charts in various countries.

In addition to its commercial success, “What Else Is There” also gained attention for its visually striking music video. Directed by Martin de Thurah, the video features a surreal and enigmatic narrative that complements the introspective lyrics and adds another layer of depth to the overall experience of the song.

Overall, “What Else Is There” showcases Röyksopp’s ability to create emotionally charged electronic music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. It is a testament to their unique blend of catchy melodies, atmospheric production, and thought-provoking lyrics that have made them stand out in the electronic music landscape.

What is Schranz Remix?

A Schranz Remix is a specific type of remix that originated in Germany in the 1990s. It is characterized by its high-energy, pounding beats, driving basslines, and aggressive use of percussion. Schranz remixes often transform original tracks, particularly from electronic music genres, into intense and energetic dancefloor bangers.

The term “Schranz” comes from the German word for “shutter” and was originally used to describe the style of techno music played in clubs with metal shutters on the windows. This style of music quickly gained popularity in the underground rave scene and evolved into a distinctive subgenre within techno.

When it comes to remixing, Schranz remixes are notorious for their heavy use of industrial and metallic sounds, including distorted synths and hard-hitting drum patterns. These remixes often strip down the original track to its core elements and rebuild it with a relentless and driving energy.

In a Schranz remix, the emphasis is placed on creating a high level of intensity and maintaining a fast and relentless pace throughout the track. The remix may incorporate additional elements such as sirens, vocal samples, and aggressive sound effects to further enhance the energetic atmosphere.

Part of the appeal of Schranz remixes is their ability to transform a more melodic or downtempo original track into a powerful and commanding dancefloor anthem. By infusing the remix with a relentless intensity, DJs and producers inject a new level of energy that ignites the crowd and keeps them moving.

It is important to note that Schranz remixes are not for the faint of heart. They cater to a specific subset of electronic music enthusiasts who enjoy the high-octane and relentless nature of this style. These remixes are often featured in techno events and are known for inciting a frenetic energy on the dancefloor.

In summary, a Schranz remix takes an original track and transforms it into a high-energy, driving, and aggressive reimagining. It embraces the harder and more intense elements of techno music, creating a sonic experience that is tailor-made for the dancefloor.

Analysis of the Schranz Remix

The Schranz Remix of “What Else Is There” takes the haunting and atmospheric original track and injects it with a heavy dose of industrial and aggressive energy. Let’s delve into the key elements that make this remix stand out:

1. Intensity and Energy: The Schranz Remix amplifies the intensity of the original track to a whole new level. The driving and pounding beats, along with the aggressive basslines, create a relentless energy throughout the remix. The powerful combination of aggressive percussion and distorted synths gives the remix a visceral and commanding presence.

2. Transformation of Atmosphere: While the original track has a melancholic and ethereal atmosphere, the Schranz Remix strips away some of its subtleties and replaces them with a more abrasive and raw sound. This transformation creates a stark contrast between the original’s introspection and the relentless energy of the remix.

3. Emphasis on Rhythm and Percussion: Schranz Remixes typically place a heavy emphasis on rhythm and percussion, and this is no exception. The remix accentuates the driving beats, adding layers of percussion that propel the track forward. The result is a pulsating and energetic arrangement that demands attention and induces movement on the dancefloor.

4. Retaining the Core Melody: Despite the intense transformation, the Schranz Remix retains the core melody of “What Else Is There” in a modified and distorted form. This allows listeners to identify and connect with the familiar elements of the original while experiencing them in a completely different sonic context.

5. Aggressive Sound Design: The Schranz Remix showcases aggressive sound design, incorporating distorted synths, industrial-inspired sound effects, and heavily processed vocal samples. These elements not only add to the intensity but also create a gritty and industrial aesthetic that characterizes the Schranz subgenre.

6. Extended Builds and Drops: The Schranz Remix often features extended builds and drops that prolong the anticipation and intensify the impact of each section. The combination of the driving beats, rising tension, and explosive drops creates an exhilarating and dynamic listening experience.

Overall, the Schranz Remix of “What Else Is There” maintains the essence of the original track while infusing it with a new level of aggressive energy and intensity. It showcases the creative transformation that can occur within the realm of remixing, highlighting the versatility and adaptability of electronic music.

Reception and Impact

The Schranz Remix of Röyksopp’s “What Else Is There” made a significant impact on the electronic music community, garnering both positive and mixed reactions. Let’s explore how it was received and the lasting impact it had:

Upon its release, the Schranz Remix attracted attention from DJs, clubgoers, and electronic music enthusiasts who were drawn to its high-energy and aggressive nature. It quickly became a staple in underground techno clubs and gained a reputation for its ability to ignite dancefloors and create a frenetic atmosphere.

While the remix received praise for its intense and relentless energy, it also sparked debate among fans of the original track. Some appreciated the remix’s transformation, seeing it as a fresh and unique take on the song. Others felt that it stripped away the original’s atmospheric beauty and emotion, turning it into a more generic, hard-hitting track.

Regardless of the mixed reception, the Schranz Remix served as a testament to the versatility of electronic music. It highlighted the ability of DJs and producers to reimagine and reinterpret existing tracks in different genres and styles, breathing new life into them.

Furthermore, the Schranz Remix contributed to the recognition of Röyksopp within the electronic music community. It introduced their music to a broader audience, particularly fans of the techno and harder dance music genres. For some listeners, it acted as a gateway to exploring more of Röyksopp’s discography and appreciating their original sound.

In terms of the impact on the broader electronic music scene, the Schranz Remix of “What Else Is There” played a role in influencing subsequent remixes and productions. It inspired other artists to experiment with combining genres and pushing the boundaries of electronic music, leading to the emergence of new subgenres and fusions.

Furthermore, the remix showcased the potential for collaborations between artists from different genres and backgrounds. The inclusion of Karin Dreijer Andersson’s vocals in the original track and subsequent remix highlighted the power of combining talents from different musical realms and the exciting results that can emerge.

Overall, while the Schranz Remix of “What Else Is There” may have divided opinions, it made an impact by expanding the reach of Röyksopp’s music, pushing the boundaries of remixing, and inspiring future experimentation within the electronic music community.

Conclusion

The Schranz Remix of Röyksopp’s “What Else Is There” exemplifies the transformative power of remixing in the electronic music landscape. This high-energy and aggressive remix takes the haunting and ethereal original track and injects it with a raw and relentless intensity.

While the Schranz Remix may have faced mixed reception, there is no denying the impact it had on the electronic music community. It introduced Röyksopp’s music to a broader audience, sparking interest in their unique blend of ambient and downtempo sounds. It also inspired other artists to experiment with combining genres and pushing the boundaries of electronic music.

Furthermore, the Schranz Remix highlighted the versatility of electronic music and showcased the power of collaboration across different musical genres. The inclusion of Karin Dreijer Andersson’s vocals added an additional layer of depth to the remix and served as a testament to the exciting possibilities that arise when artists from different backgrounds come together.

Ultimately, the Schranz Remix of “What Else Is There” serves as a testament to the ever-evolving nature of electronic music. It showcases the potential for reinterpretation and transformation within the realm of remixing, allowing artists to breathe new life into existing tracks and introduce them to new audiences.

Whether you appreciate the intense energy of the Schranz Remix or prefer the atmospheric beauty of the original track, there is no denying its impact in expanding the sonic boundaries of Röyksopp’s music and pushing the limits of electronic music as a whole.

So, next time you come across a remix, take a moment to appreciate the creative vision behind it and the unique experience it brings to the table. After all, remixes are a testament to the ever-evolving nature of music and the endless possibilities for reinvention and reimagining.