The June issue of rockin’ on, out on May 7, features a massive special on Dance Rock!
We’ll be diving deep into the revolutionary sounds born from the fusion of rock and dance, exploring the spirit of experimentation and the electrifying path it has carved through music history.
Throughout its long history, rock has constantly evolved by adopting new styles, and the rise of techno and house music in the 1980s was no exception. The new wave of dance rock that emerged—boldly absorbing dance beats—delivered a refreshing shock to '80s audiences. It grew throughout the '90s, becoming more mainstream and refined, and by the 2000s, it had established itself as a distinct format within rock.
Today, it’s perfectly normal for artists—ranging from arena-shaking acts to bedroom pop producers crafting personal sonic landscapes using DTM—to adopt electronic music trends and techniques while staying rooted in rock. And this style continues to evolve and diversify every day. Rock ‘n’ roll began as dance music that moved people’s bodies, and maybe, just maybe, that DNA still seeks out cutting-edge rhythms and grooves even now.
This special feature revisits the legacy of dance rock that’s kept people dancing while never ceasing to innovate—allowing readers to revel once more in all its thrill and wonder.
It includes:
・52 artist reviews tracing the genre’s trajectory from the 1980s to today
・A retrospective on Underworld, the band that evolved from rock beginnings into a techno powerhouse
・A memorial report on Electraglide, the legendary indoor rave that brought the world’s cutting-edge acts to Japan
Spanning a full 52 pages, this is an all-encompassing look at the world of dance rock.
Is it rock? Is it dance? That question no longer matters. Just feel the beat and let your heart and body move freely.
—Tomohiro Ogawa
Within this special feature, we present in-depth reviews of 52 dance rock icons, categorized by generation.
From New Wave to rave, from post-punk revival to today’s most talked-about newcomers—this is the definitive edition that traces the entire evolution of dance rock.
Here is the full list of featured artists!
●Generation 0
New Order / 808 State / Gang of Four / Depeche Mode / The KLF / Happy Mondays / Public Image Ltd. / The Human League / Soft Cell
●Generation １
The Prodigy / Underworld / The Chemical Brothers / Primal Scream / Daft Punk / Fatboy Slim / Goldie / Squarepusher / Asian Dub Foundation / DJ Shadow / Moby / Orbital / Leftfield / The Orb / Soulwax
●Generation 2
LCD Soundsystem / Bloc Party / Justice / !!! / Klaxons / Gorillaz / The Rapture / Kasabian / Hot Chip / The Music / Phoenix / Simian Mobile Disco / Digitalism / Le Tigre / Cut Copy / Washed Out
●Generation 3
Skrillex / Two Door Cinema Club / Foster the People / The xx / Tame Impala / Nia Archives / Friendly Fires / Barry Can’t Swim / Fat Dog / Overmono / The Dare / Bicep
《Feature Highlights》
・Comprehensive generational reviews of dance rock icons
・Definitive 2008 interview with Underworld
・Electraglide memorial report
Since its birth, dance rock has never stopped transforming and evolving. This issue offers a multifaceted deep dive into the genre’s essence and enduring appeal—a must-keep collector’s edition.
Don't miss it!
The Dance Rock Special is featured in the June issue of rockin’ on, out today!
Purchase your copy now at your local bookstore or via the link below:
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