Bass so deep it rattles your bones. 160–180 BPM.
Drum and Bass is a fast-paced electronic music genre originating in the UK in the early 1990s. It features breakbeats between 160-180 BPM, heavy sub-bass, and complex drum patterns. The genre evolved from jungle and rave scenes, incorporating elements of reggae, funk, and techno.
The defining artists of Drum And Bass — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Drum And Bass.
Drum and Bass is characterized by fast, syncopated breakbeats (typically the 'Amen break' or similar) at 160-180 BPM, layered over deep, rolling sub-basslines. The rhythm is often complex, with rapid hi-hats and snare rolls, while the bass provides a powerful, physical presence. Melodies can range from dark and atmospheric to bright and jazzy, often using sampled vocals or synthesizer pads.
Drum and Bass emerged in the early 1990s in the UK, particularly in London and Bristol, as an offshoot of the jungle and hardcore rave scenes. Pioneers like Goldie, Roni Size, and LTJ Bukowski shaped its sound, blending breakbeats with deep basslines.
By the mid-90s, the genre splintered into subgenres like liquid funk, neurofunk, and jump-up, each emphasizing different aspects of the sound. Producers began using advanced sampling and synthesis to create intricate rhythms and atmospheric textures.
Culturally, drum and bass became a staple of underground club nights and festivals, with a strong following in the UK, Europe, and worldwide. Its influence extends to other genres like dubstep, grime, and even pop music.
How Drum And Bass is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
When producing drum and bass, the drum pattern is crucial: start with a classic break like the Amen or Think break, chop it, and rearrange to create a syncopated loop. Swing is typically tight, around 50-55% on the grid, but can vary. The BPM feels fast but steady; use a kick on the first beat and snare on the third to maintain drive.
Bass is often a low-pass filtered Reese or a sine wave with distortion. Use sidechain compression to let the kick punch through. Common samples include reggae vocal chops, rave stabs, and atmospheric pads. Structure tracks with intro, build, drop, and breakdown sections.
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