The Takeover of Drum and Bass in America

Drum and Bass is finally getting the attention it deserves in the U.S. After dominating the underground scenes in the UK for decades, the fast-paced, bass-heavy genre is turning heads as of recently, and it’s no surprise. Maybe it’s the catchy beats, the high-energy dancing, or the way it gets your heart racing like you just took three shots of espresso, DnB is gaining its respect in America, and it’s about time!

What’s causing this wave? One reason could be the influence of streaming apps and social media (how I, personally, was Influenced). With social media algorithms curated the way they are, it’s easier than ever to come across a banger from artist sets like Sub Focus, Hedex, or Andy C and become infatuated.

Another big player in the Drum and Bass rise is the festival scene. Festivals like Electric Daisy Carnival better known as “EDC” and smaller, more niche festivals are filling more set times with DnB artists. When the bass drops at the high BPM DnB is known for, and the crowd reacts, it’s hard not to become a fan of the energy it exerts. Add that to the recent collision of heavier bass influences with DnB, like Samplifire and Excision’s recent mixes, the genre is grabbing attention like never before. John Summit, yet another example, featuring Sub Focus in their massive hit “Go Back,” has further supported the growth of DnB’s presence in the U.S.

What’s so cool about DnB’s U.S. takeover is how it’s evolving. It’s blending with other genres, from pop culture within the U.S., creating mixes that are super catchy while staying rooted to what it is. Even if you’re a veteran raver or just dipping your toes into EDM, DnB’s energy is impossible to ignore and deserves its spotlight in the U.S.

A great opportunity to experience the raw energy of DnB is coming to Arizona for Cyclops Desert with Subtronics, taking place at Rawhide Event Center on March 7-8, 2025. The lineup features Hedex and Basstripper, two incredibly talented DnB artists. If you haven’t been exposed to the genre yet, these two are a perfect introduction. Grab your tickets for Cyclops Desert here!