dnb drum and bass

The Bass That Dropped the Beat: A History of Drum & Bass

Drum & Bass, or D&B, is a genre that’s all about relentless rhythms and heady melodies. It’s a sonic rollercoaster ride that takes you from breakneck speeds to chilled-out vibes in the blink of an eye. But its history isn’t just about the music, it’s filled with colorful characters, hilarious mishaps, and moments of sheer musical genius.

From Ragga to Jungle:

D&B’s roots lie in the UK, where in the early 90s, Jamaican influenced sounds like ragga collided with breakbeats and hardcore techno. This wild fusion birthed “jungle,” a raw, energetic style that became the bedrock of D&B.

The Pioneers:

Early pioneers like Goldie, with his iconic track “Inner City Life,” and Roni Size, who revolutionized the genre with his “New Forms” album, laid the groundwork for a truly diverse sound. It wasn’t just about breakneck tempos, but about experimenting with different tempos, complex melodies, and atmospheric textures.

The Evolution:

D&B continued to evolve, spawning subgenres like “liquid funk” which embraced smoother, more melodic soundscapes, and “neurofunk” which pushed the boundaries of complexity with its intricate rhythms and mind-bending synth work.

Funny Facts:

• Goldie’s “Inner City Life” wasn’t originally meant to be a D&B track! It was originally a more mellow jazz number, but the breakbeat was so infectious, it transformed into a D&B anthem.
• A D&B producer once lost a major gig due to a misplaced USB stick. The story goes, he had his entire set ready, but forgot the stick containing all his tracks. Talk about a bass-dropping moment!
• Some D&B artists have incorporated unlikely instruments into their music, like a didgeridoo or a ukulele. The result? A uniquely psychedelic sound that defies categorization.

D&B Today:

D&B remains a vibrant, innovative genre, constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring new generations of producers and DJs. Its influence can be felt across the musical spectrum, from hip-hop to electronic music.

So next time you hear that relentless bassline and those intricate breakbeats, remember the history, the humor, and the sheer joy that makes Drum & Bass such a unique and enduring musical force.