liquiddnb

Liquid DNB: From Jungle’s Gentle Embrace to the Soulful Soundscape

Liquid drum and bass (liquid DNB) emerged in the mid-1990s as a softer, more melodic offshoot of the harder, more breakbeat-driven jungle scene. Its roots lie in the experimentation of producers who wanted to explore the emotional possibilities of the genre, adding lush pads, soulful vocals, and intricate melodies to the driving drum and bass rhythms.

Early Days: The Soulful Rebels

Pioneers like LTJ Bukem, Photek, and Goldie (yes, the guy with the golden teeth!) pushed the boundaries of jungle with their introspective tracks. Bukem’s “Music” with its haunting vocal samples and ethereal melodies became an anthem for the emerging liquid DNB sound.

Funny Fact: LTJ Bukem was originally known as “The Bukem,” but the “L” was later added to stand for “London,” where he lived and honed his sound.

The Rise of the “Liquid” Identity

The term “liquid” was coined in the late 90s to differentiate the new breed of drum and bass from the harder, more breakbeat-oriented jungle. Producers like Roni Size, with his “New Forms” album, and the legendary DJ Bailey, who introduced the world to the now-iconic “Bailey’s Breaks” label, further cemented the genre’s identity.

Funny Fact: DJ Bailey’s love for the genre was so strong that he once confessed to spending his entire savings on a new sampler, only to realize the next day he had left it on the bus!

Liquid DNB Today: A Global Phenomenon

Liquid DNB continues to evolve and inspire, finding new life in the hands of contemporary producers like Netsky, Camo & Krooked, and Logistics. The genre has a global reach, captivating listeners from London to Tokyo, with its blend of soulful melodies and powerful rhythms.

Funny Fact: Netsky, known for his infectious melodies, once admitted in an interview that his favorite song to listen to while making music is…a cheesy 80s ballad!

From its roots in the jungle scene to its current global presence, liquid DNB has cemented its place in music history, reminding us that even in the most intense sonic landscapes, there’s always room for beauty and emotion.

Bonus Fun Fact: The internet’s fascination with cats isn’t limited to the music industry – a group of DJs known as “The Cat Pack” have been known to bring their furry companions along to gigs, adding an extra dose of “liquid” to the vibe!