Drum and Bass

Drum and bass (often abbreviated DnB or D&B) is a fast-paced electronic music genre characterized by rapid breakbeats—typically between 160 and 180 BPM—deep basslines, and complex syncopated rhythms. Emerging in the early 1990s in the United Kingdom, it grew directly out of the jungle scene, itself shaped by breakbeat hardcore, reggae sound-system culture, dancehall, and dub. Early underground raves in London and Bristol played a crucial role in its development, blending Jamaican bass culture with the breakbeat experimentation that defined UK club music.

Pioneering figures helped carve the identity of the genre. Goldie, with his landmark album Timeless (1995), brought drum and bass to a wider audience and solidified its atmospheric and metallic sound. LTJ Bukem developed a more elegant and cinematic approach known as intelligent drum and bass, blending jazz-influenced harmonies and lush pads. Producers such as Shy FX, DJ Hype, Aphrodite, Roni Size, and DJ Krust were central to shaping the early sound, while Roni Size’s collective Reprazent gained major recognition with the Mercury Prize for their album New Forms.

As the genre expanded, multiple substyles appeared. Jungle, its close predecessor, emphasized chopped Amen breaks and reggae influences. Liquid drum and bass offered a smoother, soulful aesthetic with melodic vocals and warm textures. Techstep, spearheaded by artists such as Ed Rush & Optical, introduced darker, futuristic tones with heavy bass design and razor-sharp production, laying the foundation for later neurofunk, known for its complex sound engineering and evolving basslines. Other variations include jump-up, characterized by its energetic bass riffs, and atmospheric drum and bass, which focuses on pads, space, and cinematic ambience.

Drum and bass quickly spread beyond the UK, influencing electronic scenes across Europe, New Zealand, and the United States. Labels such as Metalheadz, Hospital Records, RAM Records, and V Recordings became essential in defining its evolution, promoting innovation and new production techniques. Over time, the genre incorporated digital audio workstations, advanced synthesis, and meticulous sound design, turning production into a highly technical craft embraced by both underground artists and mainstream-leaning acts.

Today, drum and bass remains a global pillar of electronic music, deeply rooted in rave culture and constantly reinventing itself. Its influence reaches festival stages, club culture, film soundtracks, and modern pop production, cementing its status as one of the most dynamic and forward-thinking branches of electronic music.