The Ultimate Guide to Drum & Bass Subgenres: From Liquid to Neurofunk
Introduction: Explore the Sounds of Drum & Bass
Drum & Bass isn’t just a genre—it’s a sonic culture built on breakbeats, basslines, and boundless energy. Emerging from the UK’s underground rave scene in the early 1990s, DnB has evolved into a global phenomenon, with each subgenre delivering its own flavour and vibe. From the soulful swells of liquid to the mechanical chaos of neurofunk, there’s a sound for every mood and moment.
This guide to Drum & Bass subgenres explained highlights Liquid, Neurofunk, Jungle, Rollers, Jump-Up, Halftime, and Techstep, detailing their unique characteristics, iconic artists, and essential tracks. Whether you're new to the scene or a seasoned raver, this comprehensive DnB subgenre guide for 2025 will help you explore, understand, and appreciate the sounds that define modern Drum & Bass. Each section includes space for embedded YouTube tracks—so crank up the volume and let the music speak for itself.
Skip to section:
- Jungle
- Hardstep
- Techstep
- Neurofunk
- Darkstep
- Drumfunk
- Jazzstep
- Ragga
- Jump-Up
- Rollers
- Liquid Funk
- Liquid
- Dancefloor
- Halftime
- Minimal DnB
- Atmospheric DnB
- Intelligent DnB
- Deep DnB
- Sambass
- Clownstep
Jungle: The Roots of Drum & Bass
Jungle is the genesis of Drum & Bass, a raw and vibrant fusion of breakbeats, reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop influences that emerged from the UK’s underground rave scene in the early 90s. Characterized by fast, chopped-up breakbeats and deep, rolling basslines, Jungle carries a sense of rebellion and cultural identity. Its layered percussion and rhythmic complexity reflect the multicultural melting pot from which it was born.
Essential Artists
Shy FX, Roni Size, Congo Natty, Dillinja
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Hardstep Drum & Bass: Aggressive and Hard-Hitting
Hardstep is known for its gritty, punchy beats and heavy basslines, often characterised by powerful kicks and snares that hit with relentless energy. Emerging in the mid-90s, it blends elements of hip-hop and ragga with the breakneck pace of DnB, delivering an uncompromising, raw sound designed to ignite dancefloors. Hardstep’s simplicity and intensity make it a favourite for both old-school heads and those seeking pure, unfiltered aggression in their beats.
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Techstep: Dark, Gritty, and Mechanical
Techstep is the dark and uncompromising evolution of Drum & Bass, emerging in the mid-90s with a stark, industrial edge. Known for its cold, metallic drum patterns, deep growling basslines, and dystopian atmospheres, Techstep strips away the genre’s early rave euphoria in favour of a more mechanical and sinister aesthetic. It incorporates elements of industrial, techno, and science-fiction-inspired sound design, crafting a relentless, high-intensity listening experience that pushes the boundaries of rhythm and texture.
Essential Artists
Ed Rush & Optical, Dom & Roland, Trace
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Neurofunk: Dark, Technical, and Relentless
Neurofunk is the industrial machine of Drum & Bass, blending dark, mechanical soundscapes with intricate, high-energy basslines. Originating in the late 90s from techstep’s evolution, Neurofunk is defined by its precise sound design, glitchy percussion, and dystopian atmospheres. Its basslines twist and morph with complex modulation, often giving the music a menacing, robotic feel. Neurofunk’s meticulous production values push the boundaries of electronic music, making it a haven for technical producers and fans of high-octane, futuristic beats.
Essential Artists
Noisia, Black Sun Empire, Mefjus, Phace
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Darkstep: Intense, Aggressive, and Menacing
Darkstep is one of the most intense subgenres of Drum & Bass, defined by its aggressive breakbeats, distorted basslines, and ominous atmospheres. It merges the fast-paced energy of DnB with the harsh textures of industrial and hardcore, resulting in a gritty, almost menacing sonic experience. Darkstep’s dissonant melodies and eerie soundscapes evoke a sense of tension and unease, making it a favourite for those who crave raw, unfiltered sonic brutality on the dancefloor.
Essential Artists
Technical Itch, Limewax, Current Value
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Drumfunk: Breakbeat-Centric and Atmospheric
Drumfunk is a breakbeat-centric subgenre of Drum & Bass that places emphasis on intricate drum programming and rhythmic complexity. Stripping back on heavy basslines and melodic elements, Drumfunk highlights the raw power of breakbeats, often chopping, layering, and manipulating classic drum breaks to create detailed and dynamic patterns. Its minimalist approach allows the percussion to take centre stage, appealing to listeners who appreciate technical craftsmanship and the genre’s foundational rhythmic elements.
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Jazzstep: Fusion of Jazz and Drum & Bass
Jazzstep infuses the frenetic energy of Drum & Bass with the smooth, improvisational flair of jazz, creating a sophisticated and dynamic fusion. Characterised by its use of live instrumentation such as saxophones, trumpets, and pianos, Jazzstep balances intricate melodies and harmonies with the genre’s signature rolling breakbeats. Its rich textures and fluid compositions offer a refined, laid-back vibe, making it a unique and timeless corner of the DnB spectrum that appeals to both jazz aficionados and bass music enthusiasts alike.
Essential Artists
Alex Reece, Peshay, EZ Rollers
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Ragga Drum & Bass: Reggae-Infused Energy
Ragga Drum & Bass fuses the fast-paced rhythms of DnB with the unmistakable sounds of reggae and dancehall, bringing infectious energy and Caribbean flavour to the genre. Characterised by booming basslines, offbeat rhythms, and toasting MCs, Ragga DnB delivers a raw, vibrant sound that resonates with sound system culture. Its fusion of heavy bass and vocal stylings creates an energetic, party-ready atmosphere that continues to thrive in clubs and festivals worldwide.
Essential Artists
Shy FX, Congo Natty, General Levy, Top Cat
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Jump-Up Drum & Bass: Bouncy, Energetic, and Rowdy
Jump-Up Drum & Bass is all about raw energy and infectious grooves. Known for its wobbling, bouncing basslines and punchy drum patterns, Jump-Up is the life of the party, delivering unpretentious, high-energy rhythms designed to get crowds moving. With roots in the mid-90s, it has continuously evolved, embracing modern production techniques while maintaining its playful, rowdy charm.
Essential Artists
DJ Hazard, Serum, Macky Gee, Bou
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Rollers: Minimal, Hypnotic, and Deep
Rollers strip the sound down to the essentials—looping break patterns, deep sub-basslines, and a hypnotic groove. Unlike heavier DnB styles that rely on dramatic drops and sudden changes, Rollers focus on fluidity and momentum, creating an immersive, trance-like effect on the dancefloor. The emphasis is on groove and subtle progression, with minimalistic yet effective arrangements that allow DJs to blend tracks seamlessly, keeping the energy constantly flowing.
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Liquid Funk: Soulful and Funky
Liquid Funk, often considered a subgenre of Liquid Drum & Bass, infuses the classic DnB structure with smooth funk, soul, and jazz influences. Known for its melodic textures, warm basslines, and lush instrumentation, Liquid Funk offers a more laid-back, atmospheric vibe. Its groove-laden rhythms and soulful samples make it perfect for both club nights and chilled-out listening, creating an emotional connection through its fluidity and groove.
Essential Artists
High Contrast, Nu:Tone, London Elektricity
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Liquid Drum & Bass: Smooth, Soulful, and Emotional
Liquid Drum & Bass is the genre’s soulful heartbeat, known for its lush melodies, emotive atmospheres, and deep sub-basslines. Emerging in the late 90s as a counterpoint to the heavier, darker strains of DnB, Liquid’s charm lies in its ability to evoke emotion while maintaining the genre’s signature energy. Its smooth pads, jazzy instrumentation, and soulful vocals create a sonic palette that feels both introspective and euphoric. Tracks often feature intricate breaks layered with warm textures, making Liquid as suitable for club nights as it is for late-night headphone sessions. Its versatility and emotional depth have cemented Liquid as a timeless subgenre within the broader DnB landscape.
Essential Artists
Calibre, LSB, Hybrid Minds, Etherwood
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Dancefloor Drum & Bass: Energetic and Anthemic
Dancefloor Drum & Bass is built for maximum impact, delivering high-energy beats, infectious hooks, and anthemic melodies designed to keep dancefloors packed. Often featuring polished production, prominent vocal features, and euphoric build-ups, this subgenre bridges the gap between underground DnB and mainstream appeal. Its accessibility and crowd-pleasing nature make it a staple at festivals, clubs, and radio playlists, providing an adrenaline-fuelled soundtrack for unforgettable nights out.
Essential Artists
Chase & Status, Sigma, Sub Focus
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Halftime Drum & Bass: Slow, Heavy, and Experimental
Halftime Drum & Bass, also known as drumstep, takes the high-energy framework of DnB and slows it down, creating space for deep basslines, offbeat percussion, and experimental soundscapes. With influences from hip-hop, trap, and dubstep, Halftime explores unconventional rhythms and stripped-back arrangements, often using heavy sub-bass and sparse drum hits to build tension. The result is a hypnotic, weighty style that feels both relaxed and intense, bridging the gap between DnB and bass music’s wider spectrum.
Essential Artists
Alix Perez, Ivy Lab, Shield, Fixate
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Minimal Drum & Bass: Stripped-Back and Deep
Minimal Drum & Bass is all about restraint, stripping the genre down to its bare essentials: deep bass, sparse percussion, and subtle atmospherics. This subgenre thrives on subtlety, creating a hypnotic, immersive experience through its use of space and texture. Often incorporating elements of dub and techno, Minimal DnB delivers a deep, cerebral groove that builds tension and atmosphere without relying on complex breaks or heavy drops.
Essential Artists
Skeptical, Dub Phizix, Alix Perez
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Atmospheric Drum & Bass: Cinematic and Immersive
Atmospheric Drum & Bass is a subgenre that places emphasis on lush, ambient textures and cinematic soundscapes. Its layered synths, distant echoes, and intricate drum patterns create an immersive experience that feels both vast and intimate. Influenced by ambient music and film scores, Atmospheric DnB offers a sonic journey that transports listeners to otherworldly realms while maintaining the breakbeat foundation that defines the genre.
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Intelligent Drum & Bass: Atmospheric and Complex
Often referred to as “artcore,” Intelligent Drum & Bass combines intricate breakbeat programming with ambient, ethereal soundscapes. Pioneered by LTJ Bukem, this subgenre focuses on smooth, rolling basslines and lush textures, offering a more cerebral and immersive listening experience. It stands apart from the harder, darker styles of DnB by emphasizing musicality, jazz elements, and a sense of sonic exploration, making it the perfect soundtrack for both the dancefloor and introspective moments.
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Deep Drum & Bass: Immersive and Subtle
Deep Drum & Bass focuses on rich, immersive basslines and subtle, evolving melodies that create a profound sense of depth. Often drawing from dub, techno, and ambient influences, this subgenre is built on subtle groove and atmospheric tension. Its minimalist approach allows the intricacies of each sound to shine, making it a favourite for those who seek a more introspective and hypnotic DnB experience.
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Sambass (Brazilian Drum & Bass): Latin-Flavored Rhythms
Sambass, also known as Brazilian Drum & Bass, merges the infectious rhythms of samba and the smooth grooves of bossa nova with the driving energy of DnB. This vibrant subgenre is characterised by its use of Latin percussion, rhythmic guitar riffs, and melodic flair, resulting in an uplifting and danceable sound. Sambass embodies the rich musical heritage of Brazil while maintaining the fast-paced breakbeats and deep basslines that define Drum & Bass, creating a sunny, rhythmic fusion perfect for both festivals and intimate sets.
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Clownstep: Playful and Bouncy
Clownstep is a lighthearted, almost tongue-in-cheek subgenre that grew out of Jump-Up Drum & Bass. Recognised for its exaggerated, wobbling basslines and catchy, repetitive melodies, it brings a fun, bouncy energy to the genre. While sometimes divisive among purists, its infectious rhythms and playful vibe have made it a mainstay at raves and festivals, delivering an unpretentious, feel-good experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Essential Artists
DJ Clipz, Twisted Individual, Distorted Minds
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Final Thoughts: Immerse Yourself in the World of DnB
Drum & Bass is more than music—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a cultural movement. The genre’s rich tapestry spans from the soulful serenity of liquid to the raw chaos of jungle and the razor-sharp precision of neurofunk, offering something for every listener and every mood.
Find Your Sound:
Dive deeper into each subgenre by exploring curated playlists, DJ sets, and label releases. From the soulful liquid sets on Hospital Records to the dark neurofunk vibes from Vision Recordings, finding your sound is about immersing yourself in every beat and bassline.
Experience It Live:
There’s nothing like the energy of a live DnB event. Attend iconic festivals like Hospitality in the Park, Sun & Bass, or club nights at Fabric in London. Feel the bass shake your core, watch legendary DJs mix live, and become part of a crowd united by the love of DnB.
Keep Exploring:
New talent is constantly pushing the genre forward. Follow emerging producers on SoundCloud, watch production tutorials on YouTube, and stay updated with labels like Critical Music and 1985 Music to hear the latest releases.
Be Part of the Culture:
Join online forums such as Dogs On Acid, participate in Reddit's DnB communities, and follow social media pages dedicated to Drum & Bass. Support independent artists by purchasing tracks on Bandcamp and attending local events.
Drum & Bass isn’t just a genre—it’s a journey of discovery, connection, and evolution. Explore these sounds, find your vibe, and immerse yourself fully, because DnB is best felt when it rattles your chest, lifts your spirit, and connects you to a community that lives and breathes breakbeats and basslines.
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