Guide
DnB isn’t one sound — it’s a spectrum. Here’s a clean map of the most common subgenres, what each one feels like, and where to start.
Most DnB sits around 160–180 BPM (often ~174). The difference is the groove, sound palette, and emotional tone.
| Subgenre | Vibe | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid DnB | smooth, melodic, emotional | If you like melodic electronic music and want an easy entry point. |
| Neurofunk | dark, futuristic, technical | If you love heavy bass movement and detailed production. |
| Jump-Up | bouncy, playful, rave-ready | If you want fast fun and big drops for the dancefloor. |
| Techstep | minimal, robotic, industrial | If you like darker, stripped-back DnB with a sci-fi edge. |
| Jungle | raw, breakbeat-driven, rooted in reggae | If you want the original DNA and a more raw, organic feel. |
| Halftime / 87 | slower-feeling groove at DnB tempo | If you like heavier, head-nod energy without losing DnB speed. |
lush chords
vocals and atmospheres
rolling drums
If you like melodic electronic music and want an easy entry point.
sound-design bass
precision drums
cinematic tension
If you love heavy bass movement and detailed production.
big hooks
crowd energy
simple, punchy bass
If you want fast fun and big drops for the dancefloor.
tight drums
cold atmospheres
driving grooves
If you like darker, stripped-back DnB with a sci-fi edge.
chopped breaks
bass pressure
classic samples
If you want the original DNA and a more raw, organic feel.
heavy space
half-time drums
dark weight
If you like heavier, head-nod energy without losing DnB speed.
Common DnB subgenres include liquid, neurofunk, jump-up, techstep, and jungle. Many modern tracks blend elements from multiple styles.
Most beginners start with liquid (melodic) or jump-up (high energy). If you love heavy sound design, start with neurofunk.
Jungle is the earlier breakbeat-driven style from the early 90s; Drum and Bass evolved from it and became broader and more production-focused over time.
Want the full definition first? What is Drum and Bass.