Neurofunk is a subgenre of drum and bass that emerged in the late 1990s in London, England. It is characterized by its dark, futuristic sound and heavy emphasis on sound design. Unlike other forms of drum and bass, neurofunk is known for its complex, distorted basslines and intricate percussion patterns.
Neurofunk is often described as a fusion of drum and bass and techno, with influences from other electronic genres such as dubstep and breakbeat. The genre is known for its use of cutting-edge production techniques and innovative sound design, which often involves the use of modular synthesizers and other hardware equipment. Some of the most well-known neurofunk producers include Noisia, Ed Rush & Optical, and Black Sun Empire.
neurofunk is a unique and exciting subgenre of drum and bass that has gained a dedicated following among electronic music fans. Its dark, futuristic sound and emphasis on sound design make it stand out from other forms of drum and bass, and its influence can be heard in a wide range of electronic music genres today.
Neuro and Neurofunk
Neurofunk is a subgenre of drum and bass (DnB) that emerged in the late 1990s. It is characterized by complex, intricate drum patterns, heavy basslines, and futuristic sound design. The term “neuro” refers to the complex, layered, and often dissonant sound design that is a hallmark of the genre.
Neurofunk is often described as the “thinking man’s” DnB, as it requires a certain level of musical knowledge and technical skill to produce and appreciate. It draws influences from a variety of genres, including jazz, funk, and experimental electronic music.
One of the defining features of neurofunk is the drop, a moment in the track where the beat and bassline are stripped away, leaving only a few atmospheric sounds before the track explodes back into full force. This creates a sense of tension and release that is a key aspect of the genre.
Sound design is also a crucial element of neurofunk. Producers use a variety of techniques, such as layering sounds, adding reverb and other effects, and manipulating samples, to create the complex and intricate soundscapes that define the genre.
Neurofunk has a strong following among fans of underground electronic music, and has spawned a number of subgenres and offshoots, such as techstep and neurohop. Labels such as Eatbrain, Blackout, and Wormhole are known for releasing cutting-edge neurofunk tracks, and the genre has a number of high-profile producers, including Noisia, Mefjus, and The Upbeats.
neurofunk is a complex and innovative subgenre of DnB that continues to push the boundaries of electronic music. Its intricate sound design, heavy basslines, and futuristic vibe make it a favorite among fans of underground dance music.
Genres and Subgenres
Drum and Bass (DnB) is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the UK in the early 1990s. It is characterized by fast breakbeats, heavy basslines, and often includes elements of techno, house, and jungle music. DnB can be broken down into several subgenres, each with its own unique sound and style.
One of the most popular subgenres of DnB is Neurofunk. Neurofunk is a subgenre of DnB that emerged in the late 1990s. It is very closely related to Techstep, but the primary characteristic that distinguishes the two genres is Neurofunk has more emphasis on flowing complex rhythms using processed and enhanced sampled breakbeats/percussion and expressive, distorted, filtered, and modulated bass sounds overlaid with rich layered soundscapes and percussive textures.
Another subgenre of DnB is Liquid Funk. Liquid Funk is a subgenre of DnB that emerged in the early 2000s. It is characterized by smooth, rolling beats, melodic basslines, and atmospheric textures. Liquid Funk is often associated with the more soulful and jazzy side of DnB.
Other subgenres of DnB include Darkstep, Jump Up, and Jungle. Darkstep is characterized by its dark, aggressive sound, while Jump Up is known for its high-energy, party-friendly vibe. Jungle is a subgenre of DnB that emerged in the early 1990s. It is characterized by its heavy use of breakbeats, reggae and dub influences, and its focus on the bassline.
DnB is a genre of electronic music that has spawned several subgenres over the years, each with its own unique sound and style. From Neurofunk to Liquid Funk, Darkstep to Jump Up, DnB continues to evolve and push the boundaries of electronic music.
London’s Influence
London played a vital role in the development of neurofunk DnB. The genre emerged between 1997 and 1998 in London as a progression of techstep, which was already popular in the city’s music scene. The dark subgenre of drum and bass was structured around funk-driven or dark builds and breakdowns before climaxing into techno-infused drops.
Ed Rush and Optical, two London-based producers, are credited with creating the sound that would later become known as neurofunk. In the late 1990s, they began experimenting with a darker and more complex sound, which they showcased in their 1998 album “Wormhole.” The album was a watershed moment for the genre and marked the beginning of neurofunk’s rise to prominence.
London’s influence on neurofunk can also be seen in the city’s vibrant club scene. Funktion, a London-based club night, played a significant role in promoting the genre and showcasing some of its most prominent producers and DJs. The club night became a hub for the city’s drum and bass community, and its influence can still be felt today.
Another significant player in London’s drum and bass scene was V Recordings, a record label founded by DJ Bryan Gee and Jumpin Jack Frost. The label was instrumental in promoting the genre and nurturing some of its most prominent artists, including Roni Size, DJ Die, and Krust. V Recordings also played a significant role in promoting the more soulful and melodic side of drum and bass, which would later evolve into liquid funk.
London’s influence on the development of neurofunk DnB cannot be overstated. The city’s vibrant club scene and its talented producers and DJs played a significant role in shaping the genre and helping it gain widespread recognition.
Sound Creation and Design
Neurofunk is a genre of Drum and Bass that is characterized by its dark, futuristic, and complex sound design. The sound of Neurofunk is created by layering different sounds, such as basslines, drums, and synths, to create a rich and textured sound.
Sound design is an essential aspect of creating Neurofunk music. It involves creating and manipulating sounds to achieve a desired effect. In Neurofunk, sound design is used to create the futuristic and complex sound that is characteristic of the genre. To achieve this, producers use a variety of techniques, such as layering, filtering, and modulation.
One of the key elements of sound design in Neurofunk is the use of reverb. Reverb is used to create a sense of space and depth in the sound. It is used to create the illusion of a large room or space, which can add to the overall atmosphere of the track.
Another important aspect of sound creation in Neurofunk is the build. The build is used to create tension and anticipation in the track, leading up to the drop. It often involves the use of rising synths, drums, and other elements, which gradually increase in volume and intensity.
sound creation and design are essential aspects of creating Neurofunk music. Producers use a variety of techniques, such as layering, filtering, and modulation, to create the complex and futuristic sound that is characteristic of the genre. Reverb is used to create a sense of space and depth, while the build is used to create tension and anticipation in the track.
Tutorials and Reviews
If you’re looking to learn more about producing neurofunk DnB or want to improve your skills, there are plenty of tutorials available online. Many of these tutorials are available for free on YouTube, while others can be found on paid platforms like Loopmasters or Udemy.
Some popular tutorials for producing neurofunk DnB include the Neuro Techstep 2 pack by Singomakers, which is available on Loopmasters and includes a variety of samples, loops, and presets for creating neurofunk tracks. There are also several tutorials on YouTube that cover everything from creating basslines to mixing and mastering your tracks.
In addition to tutorials, there are also plenty of reviews available for plugins, sample packs, and other tools that can be useful for producing neurofunk DnB. These reviews can help you make informed decisions about which tools to use and which to avoid.
When looking for reviews, it’s important to consider the source and make sure that the reviewer has experience with producing neurofunk DnB. Some popular sources for reviews include music production blogs, YouTube channels, and forums like Reddit.
tutorials and reviews can be a great way to improve your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tools in neurofunk DnB production. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced producer, there’s always something new to learn and explore in this exciting genre.
The Beat and The Drop
Neurofunk is a subgenre of drum and bass that is characterized by its dark and heavy sound. The beat in neurofunk is typically fast-paced and complex, with a focus on intricate drum patterns and syncopated rhythms. The drums are often heavily processed and layered, with a mix of acoustic and electronic sounds.
To create a neurofunk beat, you can start with a basic drum loop and then layer in additional sounds and effects to create a more complex rhythm. One popular technique is to use one-shot kicks and snares to create a 2-step pattern, which adds a sense of swing and groove to the beat. You can also experiment with different percussion sounds, such as shakers, hi-hats, and cymbals, to add more texture and variation to the beat.
The drop is a key element of neurofunk, and it is where the track really comes to life. The drop is typically characterized by a heavy bassline and a driving rhythm, with lots of energy and intensity. To create a neurofunk drop, you can start with a powerful bassline and then layer in additional sounds and effects to create a more complex and dynamic sound.
One popular technique is to use a combination of bass sounds, such as a saw wave and a square wave, to create a rich and textured bassline. You can also experiment with different effects, such as distortion, filtering, and modulation, to create a more unique and interesting sound. Ultimately, the key to a great neurofunk drop is to create a sense of tension and release, with a buildup that leads to a powerful and satisfying drop.
Songs and Artists
Neurofunk DnB is a sub-genre of drum and bass that is characterized by its dark, futuristic, and often experimental sound. It emerged in the late 1990s in London and has since gained a dedicated following worldwide. Here are some of the most popular songs and artists in the genre:
Songs
- “Stigma” by Noisia: This track is often cited as one of the most iconic examples of Neurofunk DnB. It features a menacing bassline, intricate drum patterns, and eerie sci-fi sound effects.
- “Tentacles” by Ivy Lab: This track showcases the genre’s experimental side, with glitchy beats and distorted synths creating a disorienting atmosphere.
- “Megalodon” by Spor: This song is a prime example of the genre’s heavy, industrial sound. The aggressive bassline and hard-hitting drums make it a favorite among fans of the darker side of drum and bass.
Artists
- Noisia: This trio from the Netherlands is often credited with pioneering the Neurofunk sound. Their intricate productions and attention to detail have earned them a cult following.
- Mefjus: This Austrian producer is known for his high-energy tracks that blend elements of Neurofunk and Jump Up DnB. His music often features catchy hooks and driving basslines.
- Black Sun Empire: This Dutch trio has been a mainstay of the Neurofunk scene for over two decades. Their music is characterized by its cinematic soundscapes and heavy, distorted basslines.
Neurofunk DnB is a genre that appeals to fans of both drum and bass and sci-fi culture. Its futuristic sound and dark, dystopian themes make it a unique and exciting sub-genre within the electronic music world.
