What is 1990s Atmospheric Drum & Bass?
Atmospheric Drum & Bass, also known as Atmospheric or Ambient Jungle, emerged in the UK during the early-to-mid 1990s as a distinct subgenre of the broader drum & bass (DnB) and jungle movement. This style was characterized by its fusion of rapid, syncopated breakbeats and deep sub-bass with lush, ethereal pads, jazz-influenced melodies, and ambient textures (2, 6). Unlike the aggressive, sample-heavy, and often ragga-influenced sound of early jungle, Atmospheric DnB cultivated a more introspective, cinematic, and melodic approach, appealing to listeners both inside and outside the rave environment2.
The genre reached it’s peak of popularity in 1995 and 1996, after which it was overtaken by newer drum and bass styles (primarily Techstep). Its ethos was adopted by closely related style Jazzstep, and later by what most people today refer to as Liquid Drum and Bass. In parallel with jungle, atmospheric drum and bass has seen a reasonable revival in the late 2010s and 20s, spearheaded by artists such as ASC and Kloke, and labels such as OKBRON Records.
Aesthetic Placement: Between ‘Hardstep Jungle’ and ‘Dancefloor DnB’
Atmospheric DnB occupied a unique position within the spectrum of 1990s breakbeat music:
Hardstep Jungle: Known for its raw, rugged beats, heavy basslines, and often dark, urban soundscapes, Hardstep Jungle was designed for intense dancefloor energy and frequently incorporated reggae and dancehall influences (6). Its breakbeats were choppier and more aggressive, with less emphasis on melodic or harmonic content.
Dancefloor DnB: This style, which gained prominence in the mid-to-late 1990s, focused on straightforward, high-energy rhythms, catchy hooks, and massive bass drops tailored for club play. Dancefloor DnB was more accessible and often less experimental, prioritizing immediacy and impact.
Atmospheric DnB, by contrast, was smoother and more nuanced. It prioritized mood, space, and musical sophistication, using jazz chords, ambient samples, and intricate arrangements. While still danceable, it was less about relentless energy and more about creating immersive, emotive soundscapes-earning it the reputation as the “intelligent” or “listening” face of drum & bass (2, 6). This crossover appeal attracted both ravers looking for a comedown and new audiences previously put off by the harsher sounds of hardcore or jungle.
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