slowcore

Slowcore, also known as sadcore, is a subgenre of indie rock and alternative rock characterised by slower tempos, minimalist instrumentation, and subdued lyrical performances. Characteristics Slowcore is considered a subgenre of indie rock, alternative rock, and pop. There is no definitive characterisation of the genre, however it is typically defined by slow tempos with a sombre and atmospheric approach to songwriting and composition. Slowcore articles often take influence from related genres, including dream pop, post-rock, folk, and americana. Drone and ambient music are also cited as being similar. Less frequently, slowcore songs borrow elements from other genres, including shoegaze and midwest emo. Lyrics within slowcore are often melancholic, with the vocal performances subdued. For example, Swedish singer Stina Nordenstam has been described as slowcore because of "her sadly beautiful little-girl whisper" style of singing. In 1998, SF Weekly wrote that "The best thing about slowcore [...] is that they demand the listener pay attention. The worst thing about them is that sometimes you fall asleep by the third song".