intelligent drum & bass

Intelligent Drum & Bass: A History of Cerebral Beats

Intelligent Drum & Bass (ID&B), a subgenre of drum and bass, emerged in the mid-1990s, characterized by its complex arrangements, intricate melodies, and introspective lyrical themes.

The Roots of Intelligence:

ID&B’s origins can be traced back to the pioneering work of artists like Goldie, Roni Size, and LTJ Bukem. These artists, influenced by jazz, soul, and ambient music, pushed the boundaries of drum and bass by incorporating sophisticated harmonic structures and atmospheric soundscapes.

Key Players and Their Quirks:

• LTJ Bukem: Known for his signature “atmospheric jungle” sound, Bukem is a legend of ID&B. He once famously wore a giant, inflatable bear costume during a live performance.

• Goldie: A true innovator, Goldie’s iconic album “Timeless” helped solidify ID&B as a distinct subgenre. He’s also known for his outspoken nature, once famously refusing to perform at a festival due to a disagreement with the organizers.

• Roni Size: With his pioneering album “New Forms,” Size helped define the “melodic jungle” sound. He’s also known for his passion for cricket, even playing the sport himself.

A Shift in Focus:

While early ID&B focused heavily on atmospheric soundscapes, the subgenre evolved in the late 1990s and early 2000s, incorporating more melodic elements, complex harmonic progressions, and a wider range of musical influences.

Contemporary ID&B:

Today, ID&B continues to thrive with artists like:

• Netsky: Combining electronic dance music with pop sensibility, Netsky has brought ID&B to a wider audience. He’s known for his energetic live performances.

• High Contrast: Renowned for his cinematic production style, High Contrast seamlessly blends orchestral elements with powerful basslines. He’s a champion for the use of traditional musical instruments in electronic music.

• Calibre: With his signature intricate sound design and melancholic melodies, Calibre has created a vast and impressive body of work. He’s known for his collaborations with other ID&B artists and his dedication to the genre.

A Legacy of Innovation:

Intelligent Drum & Bass has left an enduring legacy on electronic music, inspiring countless artists and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible within the genre. Its combination of intellectual complexity and emotional depth continues to captivate audiences around the world.

A Funny Fact to Remember:

Did you know that one of the earliest ID&B tracks, “Charcoal Grill” by LTJ Bukem, was originally intended to be a sound effect for a horror movie? Fortunately, Bukem recognized its potential as a musical piece and the rest is history!