Unveiled in 2022: The Rails of Time
In 2022, the drum and bass scene was alive with energy and innovation, as evidenced by some standout tracks and collaborations. Here's a look at some of the most notable releases and artists that made waves in the genre last year.
Emz, a grime MC who gained recognition after the release of "READY4DEM", was one such artist. The track, a heavyweight link-up with Watch The Ride, was released this year and is considered one of the heavyweight link-ups in the drum and bass scene.
Another notable track was "Amazing", a collaboration between Voltage and Shy FX featuring Agent Sasco. Known for its stripped-back reggae influence and catchy hook, "Amazing" was described as a feel-good, sunshine vibe track of 2022.
Motiv, a popular drum and bass artist, also released several notable tracks in 2022. "It's Fading", "Three Sixty", and his collaborations with Riya and Collette Warren received attention in the drum & bass scene. These tracks, along with Motiv's other releases, were highlighted in mixes aired on BBC Radio One.
The drum and bass scene in 2022 also saw a resurgence in melodic and liquid drum and bass. Artists like Sub Focus, Metrik, Maduk, and Wilkinson contributed notable tunes rich in female vocals and gaming-friendly vibes. These tracks, which were still prominent in 2022 mixes curated for fans, were widely celebrated for their emotional and vocal depth.
Friction's collaboration with A Little Sound, "Weed & Wine", was another earworm for the year. Taken from Friction's second studio album After Dark, the track is one of the only earworms for the year.
Daniel Avery's "Higher" featuring Sherelle was described as an unexpected source of pure unadulterated jungle magic. The track takes listeners on an emotional journey, starting with soaring synths and a classic breakbeat drum loop. The propulsive bass and crashing crescendo make "Higher" a brilliant testament to the rising tension on a dance floor before the drop hits.
In the introduction to "Higher", Sherelle touches on dance music's cathartic properties. Agent Sasco provides lyrical duties on "Amazing", adding to its Caribbean flavor.
Sam Yates considers "Ferns", a track released by Monty & Trail on the Atlas / 2 VA compilation in late October, as one of his favorites due to its quick pace and unique qualities. The mid-high frequencies of "Ferns" are active from the outset and throughout the track, featuring a combination of acoustic guitar strums, wobbly piano chords, and a sub and bass riff.
Overall, the drum and bass scene in 2022 was marked by a combination of heavy dancefloor energy with melodic elements, dramatic vocal moments, and fusion of different subgenres, including jump-up styles. For up-to-date trending tracks and reviews beyond 2022, platforms like Beatport and TikTok are great resources.
In the vibrant drum and bass scene of 2022, music took center stage with releases like Emz's "READY4DEM" and "Amazing" by Voltage and Shy FX, both showcasing the genre's energy and innovation in their unique ways. These tracks, along with other standout pieces, offered a blend of entertainment and musical excellence that captured the hearts of fans.
