The Rise of the Bass: A Brief History of Drum & Bass
Drum & Bass, the genre that pulses with energy and complexity, has a story as dynamic as the music itself. Let’s dive into its roots, its evolution, and some of the hilarious quirks that make this scene so unique.
From Jungle to the Future:
The seeds of Drum & Bass were sown in the early 90s, born from the frenetic energy of Jungle, itself a fusion of Ragga and Breakbeat. Pioneers like Goldie, Roni Size, and Fabio pushed the boundaries, layering intricate drum patterns with hypnotic basslines and soaring melodies.
A Sonic Revolution:
Drum & Bass wasn’t just a new sound – it was a cultural shift. Ravers in the UK embraced its raw power, creating a vibrant underground scene fueled by energy and experimentation. DJs like LTJ Bukem pushed the boundaries with his “Intelligent Drum & Bass” sound, incorporating jazz and ambient influences.
The “Liquid” Years:
The late 90s saw the rise of “Liquid Drum & Bass,” a subgenre known for its smoother, more melodic style. Artists like Photek and LTJ Bukem embraced this change, showcasing the genre’s versatility and appeal to a wider audience.
Funny Facts:
The Bassline King: Goldie, known for his pioneering role in Drum & Bass, once declared that “you can’t go out and buy a bassline.” This statement, while somewhat ironic given the prevalence of sampled basslines in the genre, reflects the importance of unique sonic identity in Drum & Bass.
The “Pirate” Years: Drum & Bass was heavily influenced by the pirate radio scene, a world of independent broadcasters broadcasting underground music. This era, with its rebellious spirit and DIY attitude, remains a key part of the genre’s lore.
The “Amen Break” Legend: This iconic breakbeat, sampled from the 1969 song “Amen, Brother” by The Winstons, is the backbone of countless Drum & Bass tracks. It’s a testament to the power of a single sound to influence an entire genre.
The “Rollers” Legend: The UK hardcore scene spawned a subgenre known as “rollers” characterized by its fast, aggressive tempos and intense energy. Rumor has it that the term “rollers” originated from the nickname of a legendary DJ who used to wear roller skates to parties.
Today, Drum & Bass remains a thriving genre, evolving with each new generation of artists and listeners. It continues to push boundaries, break down barriers, and, most importantly, make people move.
