What is the Difference Between House and Progressive House?

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House music and progressive house are both subgenres of electronic dance music, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Here are the main differences between the two:

  1. Tempo: House music typically has a tempo of 120-130 BPM (beats per minute), while progressive house has a slightly faster tempo, usually ranging from 128-130 BPM.
  2. Sound and Style: House music is characterized by a straight four-on-the-floor beat, while progressive house is known for its atmospheric and melodic sound, often featuring 'pluck' synths. Progressive house is also a fusion of various house music styles from different countries, such as US House, UK House, Italian House, and others.
  3. Structure: Progressive house relies less on song structure, hooks, and flash than deep house or disco house. It is structured more around longer builds made up of lots of layers, often using atmospheric or ambient backgrounds.
  4. Layering: A key idea behind the progressive house movement is layering different sounds on top of each other and slowly bringing them in and out of the mix.

In summary, house music is characterized by its steady, unwavering beats, while progressive house is known for its atmospheric and melodic sound, fusion of various house music styles, and layered structure.

Comparative Table: House vs Progressive House

Here is a table comparing the differences between House and Progressive House:

Feature House Progressive House
BPM 120-130 128-130 (usually), can be lower
Beat Pattern 4 on the Floor (kick hat snare hat kick hat snare hat) Varies, but maintains a 4/4 beat structure
Melody Often simple and repetitive More atmospheric and melodic, with the staple 'Pluck' synths
Tempo Progression Minimal or no progression Gradual buildup and progression of tempo
Origin Developed in the 1980s in Chicago Considered a natural progression of House music, emerging in the 1990s

House music is characterized by a 4/4 beat pattern and a simple, repetitive melody, while Progressive House has a more atmospheric and melodic sound with the signature 'Pluck' synths. Progressive House also tends to have a gradual buildup and progression of tempo, whereas House music maintains a steady pace throughout the track.