jungle | drum & bass

Jungle: From Ragga to Rave

Jungle, a genre born in the UK during the early 1990s, is more than just a genre; it’s a sonic tapestry woven from the threads of ragga, hip-hop, breakbeat, and techno. Its driving force? The relentless rhythm of drum & bass.

Roots of a Rebel:

The seeds of jungle were sown in the late 80s with the “ragga jungle” scene. Think of it as a fusion of Jamaican ragga vocals with the breakbeats and basslines of early techno. Pioneering figures like Goldie and Fabio were at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of sound.

A Revolution in Rhythm:

The 90s saw the explosion of jungle. Tempo increased, basslines got heavier, and the sound became more sophisticated. Key players like Roni Size, DJ Hype, and LTJ Bukem shaped the genre, their music pulsating with raw energy and intricate sound design.

Funny Facts:

• Goldie’s Real Name: He was born Clifford Price, but his nickname, “Goldie,” came from his love of gold chains!
• The “Jungle” Name: It was initially considered a derogatory term by some, but it quickly became a badge of honor for the genre.
• Roni Size’s “New Forms” Album: The album was a groundbreaking masterpiece, winning a Mercury Prize in 1997. Funny fact? Roni Size was initially rejected by a major label for being “too experimental!”

Drum & Bass Today:

Jungle, now often referred to as drum & bass, continues to evolve. Subgenres like liquid funk, neurofunk, and darkside offer a diverse range of sounds, from melodic and soulful to dark and experimental.

The legacy of jungle is undeniable:

Its influence can be heard in everything from modern electronic music to hip-hop. It’s a testament to the power of creativity and the constant desire to push the boundaries of sound. So, next time you hear a driving bassline and relentless drums, remember the raw energy and innovation that made jungle music a force to be reckoned with.