Big names Brian Eno is the godfather of British experimental, electronic pioneer the Aphex Twin has been at the top for a decade while Radiohead and Massive Attack have gone in experimental directions.

Rising stars Bedroom boffin Four Tet creates sublime tunes using drum loops, blips and bleeps and was a surprise omission from the Mercury shortlist.

Who listens? Those with adventurous tastes who are looking for something more than the latest hit or fad.

Evolution Musicians have been experimenting to find new sounds and directions since music began. After the mind-expanding 60s, horizons opened up further when newfangled synthesisers came into use in the 1970s. Roxy Music keyboardist Brian Eno was at the forefront of electronic ambient movement after leaving the group in 1973, and his sound has become sought after by artists like U2 and David Bowie, for whom he has produced albums.

In the 1970s and 80s, a wave of industrial and abrasive bands like Throbbing Gristle and Cabaret Voltaire pushed the boundaries while The Aphex Twin and Squarepusher pushed "intelligent dance music" – so called because it is not very easy to dance to – to the fore in the 1990s.