Harsh noise is a distinct subgenre within noise music that emerged in the early 1980s. It developed out of the Kansai no wave movement in Japan and later evolved through the scene often referred to as Japanoise.
Key figures such as Merzbow, Hijokaidan, Hanatarash, C.C.C.C. and Incapacitants played a central role in shaping its early identity through extreme sonic approaches and uncompromising performances.
The form was later expanded and reinterpreted by the European power electronics scene, as well as by American artists including The Haters, Daniel Menche and Richard Ramirez.
Across these contexts, harsh noise developed as a practice centered on intensity, saturation and the physical presence of sound.
Harsh Noise Labels
ABHORRENT A.D. (US)
Harsh Noise Label based in the USA.
SATATUHATTA (FI)
Label focusing on harsh noise and experimental sounds.
deathbed tapes (US)
EXTREME EXPERIMENTAL – HARSH NOISE, INDUSTRIAL, & POWER ELECTRONICS