liquid drum & bass

The Liquid Side of Drum & Bass: A History in a Groove

Liquid drum & bass, a subgenre of the breakneck, bass-heavy drum & bass, emerged in the mid-90s. While its brethren thundered with breakneck tempos and aggressive basslines, liquid offered a different experience – a smooth, melodic journey with soulful vocal samples and a jazzy, sometimes even funky vibe.

Early Days:

The roots of liquid drum & bass can be traced back to the early 90s, with artists like LTJ Bukem pioneering a more melodic and soulful sound. Bukem’s “Horizons” (1993) is considered a cornerstone of the genre, with its lush soundscapes and atmospheric melodies setting the template for future liquid producers.

The Rise of the Subgenre:

The mid-90s saw liquid drum & bass explode in popularity, with artists like Goldie, Photek, and Roni Size incorporating elements of jazz, soul, and even funk into their music. “The Scientist” (1995) by Goldie, with its complex melodies and deep, soulful vocals, is a classic example of this period.

The Evolution of Liquid:

As the genre matured, producers began experimenting with different sounds and influences. “Renegade Snares” (1997) by Photek, with its innovative sound design and hypnotic rhythms, showed the growing sophistication of liquid drum & bass.

Funny Facts:

• LTJ Bukem’s real name is Adam Wakeling. He’s a pretty talented DJ, but let’s be honest, “Adam Wakeling” doesn’t quite have the same ring to it.
• Goldie’s real name is Clifford Joseph Price. He’s known for his hard-hitting drum & bass tracks, but one thing he’s not known for is being shy! He once famously had a very public feud with the rapper, Eminem.
• Photek’s real name is Rupert Parkes. His alias is a clever play on the word “photo” – a nod to his background as a graphic designer.

The Future of Liquid:

Liquid drum & bass continues to evolve, with new artists like Netsky, Logistics, and Calibre pushing the boundaries of the genre. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of this subgenre that it has managed to stay relevant for over two decades.

Whether you’re a seasoned raver or a newcomer to the scene, liquid drum & bass offers a unique and captivating experience. It’s a genre that invites you to get lost in the groove, to lose yourself in the music, and to rediscover the beauty of melody and rhythm.