Dubstep is a genre of electronic dance music known for its head-nodding beats, dark atmosphere, and ear-shaking bass. It draws on many other genres, including Jamaican dub, hip-hop, jungle, drum ’n’ bass, and 2-step, while fusing them into a unique blend. Dubstep originated in the U.K. and has become a popular form of production for mainstream radio, TV spots, and club mixes. Its main drumming hallmarks are rigid half-time beats, straight 16th to sextuplet hi-hat permutations, and wobble bass, all of which play off hardedged synth melodies. Many drummers are now being asked to create dubstep grooves live, whether on an acoustic kit or on a hybrid setup incorporating acoustic drums and electronics. This two-part article will help you understand what’s expected of you when someone asks you to play dubstep, including the standard grooves, winding hi-hat patterns, and DJ-style delay effects. THE 2-STEP Dubstep rhythms range between 138 and […]

May 2014 Issue