Nu-Skool Breaks
A British breaks revival with technical, modern sounds and a strong bassline.
History
Nu skool breaks is a British form of breakbeat that began between 1998 and 2002 s1s2. It is also called nu breaks s1. The music sounds more abstract and technical than older breaks s1. It uses modern synthesizers, effects and computers s1. It takes in sounds from UK garage, electro and drum and bass s1. Tracks usually run between 125 and 140 beats per minute s1. A strong bassline is a key part of the sound s1. Unlike big beat, it uses fewer hip hop and acid samples s1. It focuses on new electronic sounds and on dancing s1. The name is often credited to Rennie Pilgrem and Adam Freeland s1. They used it at their London club night Friction, which began in 1996 s1. Early labels included Botchit & Scarper, TCR, Marine Parade and Finger Lickin' s1. Stanton Warriors and the Plump DJs became well-known acts s1. The style is still played by breaks DJs today s1.
Sound
- A dominant, rolling bassline
- Technical, modern drum edits
- Fewer rock or hip hop samples than big beat
- Sounds from garage, electro and drum and bass
- A tempo around 130 beats per minute
Key figures
- Rennie Pilgrem — British DJ credited with naming the style
- Adam Freeland — British DJ linked to the name and scene
- Stanton Warriors — British breaks act
- Plump DJs — British breaks duo
Labels
- Botchit & Scarper — London , 1996
- TCR — London , 1995
- Marine Parade — Brighton , 1999
- Finger Lickin' Records — London , 1998
Defining tracks
Connections
Came from: Breakbeat , Big Beat , Drum and Bass
Led to: Breakstep , Chemical Breaks
Sources
- Nu skool breaks — Wikipedia
- Breakbeat - the genre bible: history, artists and scenes — Optimal Breaks