Beatless

/ˈbiːtləs/ adjective

Definition

Without a beat, rhythm, or pulse; lacking musical or temporal emphasis.

Etymology

From 'beat' (rhythmic pulse) + '-less' (without). A straightforward English compound formation.

Kelly Says

Beatless music is surprisingly hard to create and unsettling to hear—humans are wired to detect rhythm, so completely beatless compositions feel alien, which some avant-garde composers use intentionally for experimental effect.

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