This text offers a descriptive and highly opinionated overview of Neurofunk, a dystopian subgenre of Drum & Bass that emerged in the late 1990s. The author begins by challenging the linear, biological model of musical evolution, arguing instead that music acts as a "Frankencreature," freely combining disparate elements from any genre or era. Neurofunk is presented as the inevitable fusion of Industrial music aesthetics with Drum & Bass, characterized by themes of sci-fi, horror, and post-apocalyptic prophecy. The text details its sonic signature, highlighting its inventive drum programming and initial focus on atmospheric sounds over dominant basslines, while critiquing the modern, bass-heavy offshoot "Neurobass." Finally, it notes the genre's international appeal beyond the UK and positions it as a haven for "true underground Junglists" disillusioned with more commercial or lighter forms of Drum & Bass.
A Guide to the Dystopian World of Neurofunk
Defining the Genre: Neurofunk is a dark and "dystopian" subgenre of Drum & Bass that emerged in the late 90s. It is presented as the inevitable fusion of Industrial music with Drum & Bass, incorporating gothic, steampunk, and post-apocalyptic themes.
Music is Not Biological Evolution: A key takeaway is that music doesn't evolve linearly like life. It can combine influences from any genre, era, or culture to create new hybrid forms, much like a mythological "frankencreature."
Early Sound and Influences: Initially, Neurofunk was heavily influenced by Electro, featuring space effects, sci-fi samples, vocoders, and eerie atmospheric soundscapes.
Unique Rhythmic Structure: A defining characteristic is its inventive drum programming. Neurofunk often avoids common Drum & Bass tropes like the standard two-step kick or the amen break, making it rhythmically distinct.
Critique of 'Neurobass': The author criticizes the modern, bass-driven offshoot called "Neurobass" for prioritizing a "glass-shattering wall of bass" over musical complexity and creativity.
A Global D&B Scene: Unlike many early Drum & Bass genres that were insular to the UK, Neurofunk developed healthy scenes in the United States and Australia, helping to bring the D&B sound worldwide.
Haven for the Underground: The genre is positioned as the modern home for "true underground Junglists" who dislike the softer sounds of Liquid Funk or the commercial appeal of mainstream acts like Pendulum.