Kings Of The Rollers

Kings Of The Rollers: The Architects of Jungle Drum & Bass

Kings Of The Rollers, a musical force originating from London, UK, have been a cornerstone of the drum & bass scene since their formation in 1995. Known for their intricate, intricate soundscapes, they have carved their own unique lane within the genre, blending elements of jungle, ragga, and techno to create a sound that is both powerful and infectious.

The Sound of Kings of the Rollers:

Their music is characterized by:

• Intense, driving basslines: Layered with heavy subs and intricate synths, creating a pulsating rhythm that is hard to resist.
• Complex breakbeats: Often incorporating elements of jungle and ragga, giving their tracks a frenetic, unpredictable energy.
• Melodic ingenuity: While their music is primarily driven by the rhythm, they seamlessly weave in soulful vocals and intricate melodies, adding a touch of depth and emotion.

Most Notable Tracks:

Their discography is packed with anthems, but some standouts include:

• “Babylon” (1995): A classic jungle track with heavy bass and frenetic energy, it’s a perfect example of their signature sound.
• “Renegade Snares” (1995): A hard-hitting, breakbeat-driven track that showcases their mastery of jungle production.
• “The Message” (1996): This soulful track features powerful vocals and a driving, uplifting rhythm.
• “Rollercoaster” (1998): A more melodic track with a euphoric vibe, showcasing their ability to create tracks for all dancefloor moods.
• “We Are” (1999): Another classic, this track features intricate drum programming and uplifting melodies.

Connections and Influences:

Kings Of The Rollers have collaborated with numerous artists, including:

• Shy FX: A long-time friend and collaborator, they have produced several tracks together, including the iconic “Original Nuttah.”
• DJ Hype: Another key figure in the drum & bass scene, they have shared stages and productions with him for years.
• Goldie: The godfather of drum & bass, Goldie has supported Kings Of The Rollers throughout their career.

Similarities and Inspirations:

Their sound shares similarities with other pioneering drum & bass artists, including:

• LTJ Bukem: Known for their atmospheric, melodic sound, Bukem’s influence can be felt in the more soulful aspects of Kings Of The Rollers’ music.
• Omni Trio: This trio, known for their innovative breakbeat production, paved the way for Kings Of The Rollers’ complex and intricate drum programming.
• DJ Zinc: A pioneer of jungle and ragga, Zinc’s influence can be heard in the heavy basslines and frenetic energy of Kings Of The Rollers’ tracks.

Legacy and Impact:

Kings Of The Rollers have played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and culture of drum & bass. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless artists, and they continue to inspire a new generation of producers. Their legacy rests on their ability to blend genres and push the boundaries of drum & bass, creating music that is both timeless and undeniably powerful.