More Syncopated Jungle and Drum 'n' Bass Grooves

by Dawn Richardson As time marches on, popular music continues to evolve and change. The fusion of different styles in popular music now makes it difficult to neatly catagorize groups and their music. Listening to popular songs makes it clear that anything goes - you can hear the early influences of soul, funk, and rhythm and blues in the new genres such as hip hop, electronica and jungle and drum 'n' bass. Jungle and drum 'n' bass style grooves are currently being blended with rock, pop and jazz music. These syncopated styles of dance music often mix regular backbeat drum patterns with funk elements. Another crucial element is tempo. In its pure form, these styles would typically be played at the quick pace of 140 - 180 bpm. The following grooves are meant to be played in the 140 - 160 bpm range. If you can go faster - do it! This lesson takes the basic concepts to the next level. These are more syncopated jungle and drum 'n' bassn patterns and we're also adding in some hi hat openings this session. Always practice at a tempo which allows you to execute the pattern correctly and gradually increase to suggested tempos. All patterns should be repeated many times, until they sound even and are comfortable to play. All of these grooves and more are included in my new book, Block Rockin' Beats, soon to be released by Mel Bay. I hope you enjoy - have fun and keep it groovin'!