Relentless bass that tears through the mix. 152–178 BPM.
Tearout is a subgenre of dubstep that emerged in the UK around 2015, characterized by aggressive, distorted basslines and rapid BPMs between 152 and 178. It emphasizes intense, rhythmic drops and heavy use of synthesizers and drums.
The defining artists of Tearout — the names that shaped the sound. Tap to hear on Spotify.
The classic anthems and current essentials that define Tearout.
Tearout is defined by its relentless, distorted basslines that often feature rapid modulation and syncopation. The drums are hard-hitting, with kick drums and snares cutting through the mix. The overall feel is aggressive and chaotic, yet tightly controlled.
Rhythmically, Tearout often uses half-time drops with fast hi-hats and cymbals, creating a sense of urgency. The bass is the star, with frequent 'tearing' sounds achieved through heavy distortion and filter automation.
Tearout originated in the UK around 2015 as a harder, faster offshoot of dubstep. Producers like Trampa and Badklaat pioneered the sound, pushing BPMs higher and making basslines more aggressive.
It evolved from earlier brostep and riddim, incorporating elements of drum and bass and hardstyle. The genre gained traction on labels like Never Say Die and Disciple.
Tearout's cultural context is rooted in the underground rave scene, with a focus on high-energy performances and mosh pits. It reflects a desire for more intense, cathartic dance music experiences.
How Tearout is built — drum pattern, swing, and the sounds you need.
For drum patterns, use a kick on the first and third beat, snare on the second and fourth, and add rapid hi-hats (16th or 32nd notes). Swing is minimal; keep it straight for maximum impact. BPM should be around 155-170.
Typical samples include vocal chops, gunshots, and metallic impacts. The bass is made with wavetable synthesis (e.g., Serum) with heavy distortion and multiband compression. Layer multiple bass sounds and automate filters to create the 'tear' effect.
Press play here, or open the playlist in Spotify. Best for Mosh pits, High-intensity workouts, Gaming.
The playlist is hosted on Spotify and plays through its official player. The guide — sound, history, artists and tracks — is put together by Dropo, and every artist and track links to Spotify so you can check it by ear. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. How Dropo is made →