Abstract
The “PoumTchak” pattern is a rhythmic pattern consisting of a continuous alternation between bass drum and hi-hat sounds. It forms the basic rhythmic structure in myriads of dance music tracks. This suggests a connection to body movement, and empirical studies presented in the thesis support a correspondence between the poumtchak pattern and vertical movement patterns like head nodding, upper-body bouncing, and foot tapping. The thesis further presents and discusses various theoretical contributions that elucidate why the poumtchak pattern is especially effective in activating vertical movement patterns within the club-oriented dance music culture. Here, the ecological approach to perception, as well as theories on dynamic attending, entrainment, and musical verticality are central. The thesis employs this correspondence to illuminate musical qualities of dance music tracks through an analytical approach that seeks to interpret the potential for body movement in various musical grooves. Drive, emphasis, tension, and expectation are aspects and qualities that are particularly stressed. The importance of sound parameters, like the use of compression, filter effects, and bass drum sounds with a descending pitch movement, are also discussed. An introductory historical outline of club-oriented dance music genres and production processes from the 1970s to the 1990s is also included.