Meaning: The quote "The older ideas are rendering more and more bland music" by Tom Jenkinson, a musician known for his experimental electronic music, touches on the evolution of musical ideas and the potential for stagnation in the creative process. This quote suggests that relying solely on traditional or established musical concepts can result in a lack of innovation and creativity, ultimately leading to bland or uninteresting music.

Throughout the history of music, there has been a continuous cycle of innovation and evolution, with artists pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds, techniques, and ideas. This process of exploration and reinvention is essential for the vitality of music as an art form. However, when artists become complacent and rely solely on familiar or established ideas, there is a risk of producing music that lacks originality and fails to captivate audiences.

Jenkinson's statement can be interpreted as a call for musicians to embrace innovation and take risks in their creative endeavors. It suggests that clinging to older, conventional musical ideas can stifle artistic growth and lead to a homogenization of musical expression. By challenging the status quo and embracing experimentation, artists can breathe new life into their music and offer audiences fresh and exciting experiences.

In the context of electronic music, a genre in which Jenkinson has made a significant impact, the quote takes on added significance. Electronic music is often at the forefront of innovation, as it relies heavily on technology and provides a platform for exploring new sonic possibilities. Artists in this genre are constantly pushing the boundaries of sound and composition, seeking to create music that defies categorization and challenges listeners' expectations.

Jenkinson's own body of work as a musician, particularly under his main moniker Squarepusher, reflects a commitment to pushing the envelope in electronic music. His use of complex rhythms, unconventional time signatures, and intricate sound design demonstrates a willingness to break away from traditional musical norms and explore new sonic territories. By doing so, he has carved out a unique and influential role within the electronic music landscape.

The quote also speaks to the broader cultural and artistic landscape, where the tension between tradition and innovation is a perennial theme. As society evolves and new ideas emerge, there is a natural inclination to hold onto familiar concepts and practices. However, as Jenkinson suggests, this can lead to creative stagnation and a lack of dynamism in artistic expression.

In conclusion, Tom Jenkinson's quote "The older ideas are rendering more and more bland music" serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing innovation and experimentation in music. By challenging established norms and pushing the boundaries of creativity, artists can avoid the trap of producing bland, unoriginal music. Instead, they can contribute to the ongoing evolution of musical expression, offering audiences fresh and captivating experiences that reflect the vitality and diversity of the art form.