Drum and bass, often abbreviated as DnB, is a genre that has taken the world by storm, known for its pulsating beats, frenetic rhythms, and deep basslines. This dynamic and high-energy genre didn't appear out of thin air; it has a rich history rooted in various musical influences. In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into the early influences that shaped drum and bass music into the powerful force it is today.
The Birth of a Genre
The birthplace of drum and bass is often traced back to the United Kingdom in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Emerging from the hardcore and jungle music scenes, drum and bass found its unique identity by combining various musical elements. A critical element of the genre's formation was the breakbeat, an essential rhythmic pattern derived from hip-hop and funk. These broken rhythms provided the backbone for drum and bass, distinguishing it from other electronic genres.
Jungle's Influence
Jungle music played a pivotal role in the evolution of drum and bass. Jungle emerged in the early '90s as a fusion of breakbeats, reggae, dub, and dancehall influences. It was characterized by rapid-fire beats, heavy basslines, and reggae-style vocal samples. Jungle laid the groundwork for drum and bass, introducing the genre to the world with its intense rhythms and unmistakable urban flavor.
Goldie and Metalheadz
One of the early pioneers of drum and bass was Clifford Price, better known as Goldie. He was not only a DJ and producer but also a graffiti artist and actor, deeply ingrained in the urban culture that influenced drum and bass. Goldie's iconic album "Timeless," released in 1995, was a milestone for the genre. It blended elements of jungle, ambient music, and orchestral arrangements, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in drum and bass.
Metalheadz, the record label founded by Goldie, became a hub for drum and bass innovation. It featured releases from artists like Photek, Dillinja, and Doc Scott, helping to shape the sound of the genre and expand its reach. The label's commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing experimentation made it an essential influencer in the early drum and bass scene.
LTJ Bukem and Atmospheric Drum and Bass
Another influential figure in the early drum and bass landscape was LTJ Bukem, known for his pioneering role in the development of atmospheric drum and bass. His music was characterized by ethereal soundscapes, intricate melodies, and rolling breakbeats. LTJ Bukem's Good Looking Records released tracks that were more intricate and melodically driven than the heavier, more aggressive side of the genre, showcasing its diverse potential.
Roni Size and the Mercury Prize
In 1997, drum and bass gained mainstream recognition when Roni Size and his group Reprazent won the Mercury Prize for their groundbreaking album "New Forms." This momentous achievement brought the genre to a wider audience and demonstrated its artistic and musical depth. "New Forms" combined elements of drum and bass with jazz, hip-hop, and live instrumentation, showcasing the genre's versatility.
Global Expansion
As the '90s continued, drum and bass expanded beyond the UK, gaining popularity worldwide. Producers in other countries began to embrace the genre's signature elements and incorporate their unique cultural influences. The genre diversified further, giving birth to subgenres like liquid, jump-up, and neurofunk.
Conclusion
The early influences of drum and bass are deeply rooted in the UK's urban culture and the musical styles that emerged from it, such as jungle, hardcore, and breakbeat. Artists like Goldie, LTJ Bukem, and Roni Size played instrumental roles in shaping the genre, while labels like Metalheadz and Good Looking Records provided platforms for innovation. Drum and bass's journey from the underground to the mainstream was marked by its constant evolution, fusing various musical elements and influences along the way. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring influence of urban culture on music.