Sub Focus

Sub Focus: The Sound of Drum & Bass Royalty

Sub Focus, the alias of the English electronic music producer and DJ Rob Swire, is a household name in the drum & bass scene. Since bursting onto the scene in the mid-2000s, he has cemented his place as one of the genre’s most prominent figures, crafting a sound that blends breakneck beats with infectious melodies.

A Genre-Defying Sound:

While firmly rooted in drum & bass, Sub Focus’s music transcends genre boundaries. He seamlessly incorporates elements of dubstep, house, and even pop, creating a unique sonic tapestry that appeals to a wide audience. His productions are characterized by:

• Energetic Drum Breaks: His beats are pulsating and hypnotic, driving the music forward with relentless energy.
• Melodic Majesty: Sub Focus’s music is filled with soaring synths and uplifting melodies, adding a layer of emotional depth to his sonic landscape.
• Unforgettable Hooks: He has a knack for crafting catchy vocal hooks and samples, leaving listeners with earworms long after the music fades.

Most Known Songs:

• “Rock It” (feat. Dizzee Rascal): This 2009 anthem was a crossover hit, showcasing Sub Focus’s ability to blend drum & bass with pop sensibilities.
• “Timewarp” (feat. Alex Clare): A powerful and emotional track with a soaring vocal melody, “Timewarp” is a staple of festival sets and club nights alike.
• “Endorphin” (feat. Wilkinson): This collaboration with fellow drum & bass producer Wilkinson is a prime example of Sub Focus’s ability to create music that is both intense and melodically beautiful.
• “Imposter” (feat. Ms. Banks): This more recent track showcases Sub Focus’s willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles, incorporating elements of grime and hip-hop.

Similar Artists:

• Wilkinson: A fellow drum & bass producer known for his melodic and uplifting productions.
• Netsky: Another artist who blurs the lines between drum & bass and other electronic genres, incorporating elements of house and dubstep.
• Spor: A producer with a more experimental approach to drum & bass, pushing the boundaries of the genre with intricate and complex arrangements.
• High Contrast: A pioneering figure in the drum & bass scene, known for his blend of intricate drum patterns and melodic hooks.

Friends and Collaborators:

Sub Focus is known for his collaborative spirit, working with a wide range of artists from across the electronic music spectrum. He has collaborated with:

• Dizzee Rascal: The legendary grime MC, who featured on “Rock It.”
• Alex Clare: The soulful vocalist who provided the vocals for “Timewarp.”
• Ms. Banks: The British rapper who lent her voice to “Imposter.”
• Chase & Status: Another iconic drum & bass duo, with whom Sub Focus has toured extensively.

Sub Focus’s legacy continues to grow. He remains a pivotal figure in drum & bass, inspiring a new generation of producers and DJs with his genre-bending sound and infectious energy. Whether it’s through his solo work, his collaborations, or his captivating live performances, Sub Focus continues to push the boundaries of electronic music.