Jungle / Drum & Bass: A History Rooted in Rhythm

Jungle and Drum & Bass. These intertwined genres, born from the vibrant energy of the UK rave scene, have captivated listeners and dancers for decades. Their infectious breakbeats, deep basslines, and atmospheric soundscapes have resonated across the globe, creating a culture that transcends borders and generations. But where did this sonic journey begin?

Tracing the Roots:

To understand Jungle/Drum & Bass, we need to rewind to the late 80s and early 90s, a time when rave culture was exploding in the UK. House music, imported from Chicago, provided the initial spark, but UK producers and DJs soon began experimenting, incorporating elements of reggae, hip-hop, and even world music into the mix.

Breakbeats, those rhythmic fragments extracted from funk and soul records, became a defining element. Early pioneers like DJ Hype and Grooverider were instrumental in pushing the sound forward, creating faster, more complex rhythms that would lay the foundation for Jungle.

The Birth of a Name:

While pinpointing the exact origin of the term "Jungle" is tricky, Fabio is often credited with popularizing the phrase "Proper Urban Jungle Music" to describe the evolving sound. This evocative label captured the raw, untamed energy of the music, reflecting the urban environment where it was born.

Key Figures in the Jungle:

The early 90s saw the emergence of key figures who shaped the Jungle sound and culture:

• Goldie: A true innovator, Goldie's epic tracks and his groundbreaking album "Timeless" helped push Jungle towards a more atmospheric and melodic direction, laying the groundwork for what would become Drum & Bass.

• Randall: Known for his technical prowess and deep understanding of the music, Randall's DJ sets were legendary, showcasing the full spectrum of Jungle's sonic possibilities.

• MC GQ:  The voice of the Jungle, MC GQ's energetic delivery and lyrical mastery hyped up crowds and became synonymous with the genre.

Early Mentions of "Jungle" and "Drum & Bass":

Interestingly, the term "Drum & Bass" appears earlier than you might think. Tristan Palmer's 1988 reggae track "Show Case (In A Roots Radics Drum And Bass)" is a notable example. This suggests that the concept of emphasizing drums and bass was already present in other genres, influencing the development of Jungle/Drum & Bass.

Global Reach:

Jungle/Drum & Bass quickly spread beyond the UK, finding passionate communities in countries like:

• Germany:  Cities like Berlin and Cologne embraced the sound, fostering a thriving scene.

• Netherlands:  Known for its love of electronic music, the Netherlands became a hotbed for Jungle/Drum & Bass.

• USA:  From Los Angeles to New York, the US scene developed its own unique flavor.

• Australia:  Australia's vibrant underground scene embraced Jungle/Drum & Bass with enthusiasm.

Finding the Jungle Near You:

Today, Jungle/Drum & Bass continues to thrive, with events happening worldwide. Check local listings, online forums, and social media groups to find events near you.

Online Resources:

To dive deeper into the Jungle/Drum & Bass universe, explore these online channels:

• Streaming platforms: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music

• Internet radio stations:  Jungletrain.net, Bassdrive.com

• Live-streaming platforms: Twitch, Mixcloud

Whether you're a seasoned Junglist or a curious newcomer, there's a world of sonic exploration awaiting you. So, crank up the bass and let the rhythm take over!