In the vast universe of music genres, there’s a quirky little corner where Mario meets Metallica, and Zelda jams with Zeppelin. Welcome to the world of Nintendocore, a genre that’s as eccentric as its name suggests.
Nintendocore isn’t just a random mishmash of sounds. It’s a carefully crafted fusion of video game-inspired tunes, particularly those nostalgic 8-bit Nintendo ditties, with the raw energy of rock and metal. Think of it as the love child of chiptune and hardcore punk, with a sprinkle of metalcore. It’s the musical equivalent of playing “Super Mario” in a mosh pit.
It’s the musical equivalent of playing “Super Mario” in a mosh pit.
The genre’s roots trace back to the early 2000s, hitting its stride by the late 2000s. But the marriage of video game sounds and music isn’t entirely new. Synthpop pioneers, Yellow Magic Orchestra, were sampling “Space Invaders” sounds way back in 1978. And who could forget the 1981 classic “Pac-Man Fever” by Buckner & Garcia? It’s almost like the ’80s were hinting at what was to come.
Trailblazers like Horse the Band, Math the Band, and Minibosses didn’t just adopt the Nintendocore label; they defined it. Speaking of the name, ever wondered about its origin? Nathan Winneke of Horse the Band coined “Nintendocore” in the early 2000s, albeit as a jest. But as with all great jokes, it stuck, even if the band later tried to wiggle away from it.
The Nintendocore sound is a delightful cacophony. Vintage analog synthesizers, drum machines, and even hacked video game consoles come together to create a symphony that’s both nostalgic and fresh. And the vocals? They range from the ethereal melodies of The Depreciation Guild’s Kurt Feldman to the guttural screams of bands like Horse the Band and Math the Band. And for those who like their music pure and unadulterated, bands like Minibosses serve up instrumental masterpieces.
Influences in the Nintendocore realm are as varied as the genre itself. Math the Band, for instance, draws inspiration from diverse acts like Andrew W.K. and Devo. And while it might be a niche genre, its impact is undeniable. Nintendocore bands have toured extensively, sometimes sharing the stage with mainstream giants.
To sum it up, Nintendocore is more than just a genre; it’s an experience. It’s where the whimsical world of video games collides with the raw power of rock and metal. So, the next time you’re in the mood for something different, give Nintendocore a spin. Who knows? You might just find yourself headbanging to the ‘Super Mario’ theme.