Drum and bass (often written D&B or DnB) is a form of electronic dance music defined by rapid breakbeats and prominent low-frequency basslines. It evolved from earlier UK rave and jungle scenes and is commonly played at clubs, raves and on radio shows. While it has diversified into many styles, the core listening experience emphasizes rhythmic intensity and deep sub-bass.

Key characteristics

  • Tempo: typically fast, often around 160–180 beats per minute, creating energetic forward momentum.
  • Beats: syncopated, chopped breakbeats derived from funk and soul drum patterns.
  • Bass: heavy, sub-bass or midrange basslines that drive the track’s weight and groove.
  • Production: use of sampling, synthesis, and tight editing to shape tight drum hits and atmospheric textures.

History and development

Drum and bass emerged in the early 1990s in the 1990s United Kingdom, growing out of breakbeat hardcore, reggae-influenced sound system culture, and the faster-tempo jungle sound. Producers and DJs experimented with accelerated breakbeats and heavier low end, and the style spread through pirate radio, clubs and independent record labels. Over time the genre split into recognizable strands and reached international audiences.

Subgenres and distinctions

  • Jungle: an early, ragga- and sample-heavy branch with complex break edits.
  • Liquid or liquid funk: smoother, melodic, more atmospheric tracks.
  • Neurofunk: darker, technical, and production-focused, with intricate bass modulation.
  • Jump-up: dancefloor-oriented, with catchy hooks and prominent midrange bass.

Performance, culture and influence

Drum and bass is closely associated with DJ culture; many disc jockeys mix tracks live, blending rapid rhythms and basslines to maintain continuous energy. The genre has influenced other electronic styles, underground club culture, and film and game soundtracks. It remains active through festivals, clubs, radio shows and dedicated labels, while producers continue to innovate within and beyond traditional DnB frameworks.

For listeners unfamiliar with the style, a good starting point is to compare a drum and bass track’s fast tempo and emphasis on low-frequency driving bass to slower bass‑centric genres; this contrast helps explain the music’s distinctive physical and rhythmic impact. Further reading and archival mixes are available through many specialist resources and label catalogs; for general context see curated overviews and recorded DJ sets archived by radio stations and promoters (electronic music resources, tempo guides, historical timelines, regional scenes, DJ and performance).