This Is The Best Of Drum & Bass Classics: A True UK Jungle Gem
Alright, let’s talk about This Is The Best Of Drum & Bass Classics. Released back in 2002 by Beechwood Music, this album is a killer snapshot of the UK’s drum ‘n’ bass and jungle scene. It’s not just one artist but a whole bunch of legends coming together to create something that still bangs today. Big props to Tim Millington for compiling this beast and keeping the vibe so tight.
Now, I’ll be honest—this isn’t your typical “best of” playlist where every track blends into the next. No way. There are moments here that hit you like a freight train (in a good way). Let me break it down with two tracks that really stuck with me.
First up, there’s “The Trip (Roni Size Mix)”. If you don’t know Roni Size, then buddy, we need to have a chat later. This remix is pure energy—it grabs you by the collar and drags you onto the dancefloor. The beats bounce around like they’ve got their own heartbeat, and those synths? Oh man, they’re smooth as silk but sharp enough to cut glass. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded why drum ‘n’ bass isn’t just music; it’s an experience. You can feel the late-night vibes of some sweaty underground club even if you’re just sitting at home.
Then there’s “Isobel’s Lonely Heart (Goldie Mix)”, which feels like stepping into another dimension entirely. Goldie doesn’t mess around—he takes this track and turns it into something cinematic. The mix has these haunting melodies that linger long after the song ends, kinda like when someone tells you a story you can’t stop thinking about. It’s emotional without being cheesy, technical without being cold. Honestly, I could listen to this on repeat while staring out a rainy window and pretending I’m in a movie.
What makes this album stand out is how diverse it is. From the jazzy swagger of tunes like “It’s Jazzy” to the raw intensity of bangers like “Chain Reaction,” there’s no shortage of variety. And yeah, sure, throwing all these styles together might sound chaotic, but somehow it works. Like peanut butter and chocolate—you wouldn’t think it’d work until you try it.
One thing I gotta mention is the bonus mix CD. Free stuff? Always a win. But more importantly, it feels like a little extra love from the creators, like they wanted to make sure you left the party satisfied.
Looking back, what surprises me most is how timeless this collection feels. Even though it dropped over 20 years ago, it doesn’t sound dated. Maybe that’s because drum ‘n’ bass is built on innovation and rebellion—or maybe it’s just magic. Either way, listening to this album feels like catching up with an old friend who still knows how to throw a great party.
So, final thought: If you’ve never dipped your toes into drum ‘n’ bass or jungle, this is your golden ticket. Just don’t blame me if you end up spending hours exploring the genre afterward. Oh, and hey, fun fact—I once tried to DJ using songs from this album. Spoiler alert: It did not go well. But hey, at least I had fun trying!
Rating: 9/10
(Only losing points because my ears needed a break after nonstop listening.)
