Techno Rebels

This revised edition of Techno Rebels offers an in-depth exploration of techno music, highlighting its origins in Detroit and its cultural significance.

In Techno Rebels, author Dan Sicko provides a comprehensive history of techno music, emphasizing its deep roots in Detroit. The book takes readers on an engaging journey through the city's vibrant underground scene of the 1980s, where pioneering DJs and producers like the Electrifying Mojo and Ken Collier were pushing musical boundaries. Sicko highlights the early influences that shaped the genre, including the legendary 'Belleville Three'—Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson—who not only defined the Detroit techno sound but also helped it gain international acclaim.

This updated edition delves deeper into the evolution of techno, exploring how the genre transformed from its inception to the mid-1990s. Sicko examines the significant contributions of local figures and institutions, such as radio station WCBN and the record label Ghostly International, while also reflecting on the impact of the electronica boom of the late 1990s. The narrative is enriched with firsthand anecdotes, interviews, and profiles of key artists, offering an insider's perspective on the genre's development and its cultural significance.

Ultimately, Techno Rebels argues that the essence of techno is intertwined with the collective spirit of Detroit. Sicko posits that the music reflects the city's industrial heritage and soulful roots, making it a vital part of contemporary culture. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of techno music and the innovative musicians who shaped its legacy.