Electronic music has had many casualties over the years, but noneprobably as depressing as the death of drum n' bass. Unlike many genreswho have fallen victim to the same ultimate fate, drum n' bass (whichfor the sake of this review will encompass all subgenres that wouldfall under the larger grouping) found itself divided inside itself aswell as commercially exploited in a ruthless manner. In the end,corporate trend vultures and shady admen reduced the music to 30 secondloops, while those who originally loved the music splintered off into"new" genres such as garage and breakcore. Still, there are artists outthere plugging away and writing music truly evocative of the genre.However, the question lingers: does this effort even matter anymore? IfBad Company is any indication, then the answer is, sadly, no. In orderfor a genre to thrive, the music must remain interesting. Over thecourse of two CDs (one album and one continuous mix), Bad Company's Shot Down On Safarirepresents the stagnancy that helped bring down drum n' bass. From theoverused ragga vocals (particularly on "Mo' Fire") to the same oldtired breakbeats and synth effects, it becomes abundantly clear why somany people jumped ship for more progressive sounds. Admittedly, mytastes in drum n' bass have always leaned in the darkstep / techstepdirection, but this album just doesn't offer anything up worthmentioning. If for some bizarre reason after reading this review youstill feel like you want "Shot Down On Safari," rest assured that themix CD offers quite a few older tracks that reflect the brighter daysof drum n' bass.Read More
