Looking for some tunes to just chill to? You know, the kind that make you feel good without being too much? Dubstep can be like that. Forget the super loud, aggressive stuff you might hear at a big festival. We're talking about the kind of dubstep that has a nice vibe, something you can really relax with. This list is all about those tracks that hit just right, offering a smooth listening experience that still has that signature bass. Let's get into some seriously chill dubstep.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a curated selection of chill dubstep tracks, perfect for relaxed listening.
- Explore iconic songs that defined the early sound of dubstep, focusing on atmosphere and bass.
- Understand how certain remixes brought dubstep to a wider audience while maintaining its core elements.
- Appreciate the evolution of dubstep, from its minimalist roots to more melodic and emotive expressions.
- Find tracks that offer a smooth, bass-heavy experience without the intensity of 'brostep'.
1. Midnight Request Line
Alright, let's kick things off with a track that's pretty much legendary in the dubstep world: "Midnight Request Line" by Skream. If you're just getting into this kind of music, this is one of those songs you absolutely have to hear. It came out back in 2005, and honestly, it changed a lot of things for dubstep.
Skream, whose real name is Oliver Jones, is often called one of the people who started it all. This track, from his first album, is a perfect example of that early, deep dubstep sound. It’s not about crazy, loud drops like some newer stuff; it’s more about the atmosphere. You get these sparse beats, a really deep bassline that just creeps up on you, and a general feeling that’s kind of dark but also really cool.
It’s the kind of track that makes you feel like you’re in a dimly lit room, just soaking in the sound. It really shows you how dubstep can be moody and atmospheric without being over the top. It was a big deal because it helped bring dubstep from underground clubs to a wider audience. You can check out more about Skream and his early work here.
What makes "Midnight Request Line" so special is its simplicity. It doesn't have a million layers of sound. Instead, it focuses on a few key elements that work together perfectly. You'll notice:
- A steady, almost hypnotic beat.
- That signature deep, rumbling bass.
- A sense of space in the production, letting each sound breathe.
This track is a great starting point if you want to understand the roots of dubstep before it got super aggressive. It’s a masterclass in building tension and creating a vibe with minimal elements. Give it a listen and see if you can feel that classic dubstep mood.
2. Anti War Dub
When you're looking for that classic, deep dubstep sound, "Anti War Dub" by Digital Mystikz is a track you absolutely need to hear. Released on the well-respected DMZ label, this song really shows what Mala and Coki were all about. It’s not complicated, but the way they put it together, with plenty of space and a heavy focus on the bass and the message, is just perfect.
This track is a great example of how dubstep, even in its earlier days, could carry a serious message. It reminds you that the genre wasn't just about heavy drops; it was also about making you think. "Anti War Dub" is a cornerstone of the deep dubstep sound.
The beauty of this track lies in its simplicity. It proves that you don't need a lot of fancy production to create something powerful and meaningful. It's all about the vibe and the feeling it gives you.
If you're trying to get a feel for the roots of dubstep, this is a must-listen. It’s a track that has stood the test of time and still sounds as good today as it did when it first came out.
3. Crave You (Flight Facilities Remix)
Alright, let's talk about a track that really defined a moment in electronic music: "Crave You" by Flight Facilities. You might know the original, but this remix? It's something else entirely. When this dropped, it felt like a breath of fresh air in the dubstep scene. It’s got this amazing blend of emotional vocals and a bassline that just hits you in the chest, but in a good way, you know? It’s not aggressive; it’s more like a warm hug from a giant robot.
This song, released around 2011, became super popular, and honestly, you couldn't escape it if you were into electronic music back then. It was everywhere, from radio playlists to club sets. The vocals from Giselle are just so delicate, and they contrast perfectly with those deep, satisfying drops. It really captures that early 2010s electronic vibe while keeping the heart of the original song intact. It’s a track that makes you feel something, and that’s what makes it stick around. If you're looking for a great example of how dubstep could be both emotive and powerful, you've got to check out this Flight Facilities remix.
It’s one of those songs that just makes you want to close your eyes and get lost in the sound. The production is so clean, and the way the elements come together is just masterful. It’s a perfect example of how a remix can take a song to a whole new level, adding layers of depth and feeling that weren't there before. Seriously, give it a listen; you won't regret it.
4. Gold Dust
Alright, let's talk about "Gold Dust" by DJ Fresh. This track dropped during a really exciting time for electronic music in the UK, and it totally shows. DJ Fresh, who you might know from the drum and bass group Bad Company, really brought his A-game here. He’s got this knack for making basslines that just hit right and drum patterns that are super intricate, and "Gold Dust" is a perfect example of that. It became a classic almost instantly.
What's cool about this song is how it blends that high-energy vibe with a hook that’s just super catchy. You know, the kind of tune that gets stuck in your head in the best way possible. It’s got this infectious energy that makes you want to move.
There was even a music video for it that featured people doing double Dutch jump rope, which really captured that lively, community feel of the track. Even after all these years, "Gold Dust" still has that power to connect with people. It’s one of those songs that just feels good to listen to, no matter when you hear it.
5. E Trips
Alright, let's talk about "E Trips" by Benga. If you're looking to understand where dubstep really started to find its feet, this is a track you absolutely need to hear. Released back when the genre was still super new, "E Trips" perfectly captures that raw, stripped-down energy that defined early dubstep.
Benga was a wizard with basslines, and you can hear it clearly here. The track is built on these deep, pulsing basslines and really tight rhythms that just pull you in. It’s hypnotic, you know? It’s not about flashy drops or complicated melodies; it’s about creating a serious vibe with minimal elements. This track is a foundational piece of the dubstep puzzle.
Listening to "E Trips" today is like taking a trip back in time. It reminds you of a time when producers were experimenting and figuring things out, and Benga was right there at the forefront. It’s still a seriously good tune, proving just how much his early work shaped the sound we know and love today. It’s a great example of minimalism done right in electronic music.
6. Night
Alright, let's talk about "Night." This track is like that perfect moment when the sun dips below the horizon, and everything gets a little bit mysterious and cool. It’s not about being loud or in your face; it’s more about creating a vibe, you know? Think of it as the soundtrack to a late-night drive or just chilling with friends when the world feels quiet.
This song really nails that feeling of calm before something interesting happens. It builds this atmosphere that just pulls you in. It’s the kind of track that makes you feel like you’re in on a secret.
Here’s what makes “Night” stand out:
- Atmospheric Build-up: It starts slow, letting you settle in, almost like it's whispering secrets to you.
- Subtle Bass: The bass isn't trying to shake the room; it's deep and smooth, adding a layer of warmth.
- Melodic Elements: You'll find little melodies weaving through that give the track a thoughtful, almost dreamy quality.
- The Drop: When the main part of the song hits, it’s not an explosion. It’s more like a wave washing over you, powerful but gentle.
This song is a masterclass in how to create a mood without needing to be aggressive. It proves that dubstep can be incredibly effective when it focuses on feeling and atmosphere rather than just raw power.
It’s a great example of how dubstep can be chill without being boring. Give it a listen when you want something that feels both deep and relaxing.
7. Goblin
Alright, let's talk about "Goblin" by Coki. This track is a serious throwback, a real gem from the early days of dubstep. When you first drop the needle on this one, or hit play, you're immediately hit with this massive, almost physical bassline. It’s not just a sound; it feels like a presence in the room, something that vibrates right through you. This is what deep, raw dubstep sounds like.
Coki was one of those artists, alongside names like Mala and Loefah, who were really pushing the boundaries back then. They weren't trying to make radio hits; they were exploring the darker, more experimental side of the genre. "Goblin" is a perfect example of that ethos. It’s got this gritty, underground feel that’s hard to find in a lot of modern electronic music.
The bass in "Goblin" feels almost alive, like it's trying to escape the speakers and consume everything in its path. It embodies the dark, underground soul of dubstep at its peak.
If you're looking to get a feel for the foundational sounds of dubstep, tracks like this are a must-listen. It’s a reminder of the genre's roots and the incredible sonic landscapes that were being created. You can find "Goblin" on various compilations and mixes, sometimes appearing on dubstep deep chill playlists, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Here's what makes "Goblin" stand out:
- Unrelenting Bass: The low-end is the star here, deep and powerful.
- Atmospheric Texture: It creates a dark, almost menacing vibe.
- Pioneering Sound: Represents the experimental spirit of early dubstep.
- Raw Energy: It’s pure, unadulterated dubstep without any frills.
8. Time Stood Still
Alright, let's talk about "Time Stood Still" by Excision and Dion Timmer. This track really shows how dubstep has grown while still remembering where it came from. Excision is a big name, you know, he's been around for ages and even started his own label, Rottun Recordings, which is a go-to for heavy bass music. Dion Timmer, hailing from the Netherlands, teamed up with Excision for this one, and it's featured on their "Breaking Through" EP.
What makes this track stand out is how it blends Excision's powerful production style with Dion Timmer's knack for creating melodies that have a real emotional feel. It’s not just about the heavy drops; there’s a depth here that pulls you in. It’s a perfect example of how modern dubstep can be both intense and moving.
Think about the feeling you get when you listen to it. It’s got that signature Excision punch, but Timmer adds a layer that makes it more than just noise. It’s like a journey through sound, with moments that hit hard and others that let you breathe.
- Bass: Expect those deep, rumbling basslines that Excision is known for.
- Melody: Dion Timmer brings in melodic elements that give the track a unique character.
- Energy: It builds and releases tension in a way that keeps you hooked.
This track is a solid choice if you're looking for something that has the power of newer dubstep but still has that thoughtful, almost cinematic quality. It’s the kind of song that makes you feel something while still wanting to move.
9. Cinema (Skrillex Remix)
Alright, let's talk about a track that really blew the doors open for dubstep: Benny Benassi's "Cinema," but specifically the Skrillex Remix. Released back in 2011, this tune was a massive deal. It wasn't just a remix; it was a moment that helped push dubstep from the underground into the mainstream spotlight. If you were getting into electronic music around this time, chances are you heard this everywhere.
Skrillex took the original song and injected it with his signature sound. Think heavy bass, aggressive synths, and that unmistakable energy. It's the kind of track that grabs you and doesn't let go. This remix was so impactful that it even earned Skrillex a Grammy Award for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical. It really showed how far electronic music could go and how diverse it could be.
What makes it a great chill dubstep track, even with its intensity? It’s all about the structure and the build-ups. While it has those big drops, there's a melodic quality and a certain flow that keeps it from being just noise. It’s a perfect example of how dubstep could be both powerful and engaging.
This track became an anthem for a generation of electronic music fans, serving as a gateway for many to explore the wider world of dubstep and EDM.
If you want to hear this groundbreaking remix, you can find it on various platforms. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolution of dubstep and how it crossed over into popular culture. You can check out the "Cinema - Skrillex Remix" to experience it yourself.
10. So Far Away
Alright, let's wrap up our list with a track that really hits you in the feels: "So Far Away" by Phaeleh. This one is a bit different from some of the more energetic tracks we've talked about. It's more about creating a mood, a whole atmosphere you can just sink into.
When you listen to "So Far Away," you'll notice it has this really smooth, almost dreamy quality. The melodies are gentle, and the bassline, while present and deep, doesn't hit you over the head. Instead, it provides this warm foundation that supports the whole track. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to close your eyes and just drift away, maybe on a long drive or just chilling at home.
This track is perfect for those moments when you need something calming but still engaging. It has a way of making you feel a bit nostalgic, even if you've never heard it before. It’s that gentle kind of dubstep that proves the genre isn't just about heavy drops.
What makes "So Far Away" stand out is its emotional depth. It’s not trying to be aggressive or in-your-face. It’s more about creating a feeling, a sense of longing or reflection. The vocals, when they appear, are often soft and ethereal, adding to that overall vibe. It’s a great example of how dubstep can be used to create something beautiful and introspective.
If you're looking for a track to wind down to, or something that offers a different side of dubstep, you really can't go wrong with this one. It’s a solid choice for anyone who appreciates a more mellow, melodic approach to the genre.
So, What's the Takeaway?
Alright, so we've taken a little trip through some seriously good chill dubstep tunes. Whether you're new to this sound or you've been a fan for ages, hopefully, you found something here that made you nod your head or just feel good. It's cool how this music can be both relaxing and still have that deep bass vibe, right? Don't be afraid to explore more – there's a whole world of these tracks out there waiting for you. Keep listening, keep discovering, and enjoy the vibes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is 'chill dubstep'?
Chill dubstep, sometimes called 'chillstep,' is a style of dubstep music that focuses on a more relaxed and mellow vibe. Instead of the super heavy, aggressive beats you might hear in other types of dubstep, chill dubstep uses smoother rhythms, often with more melodic elements and atmospheric sounds. Think of it as dubstep you can chill out to, perfect for unwinding or background listening.
How is chill dubstep different from 'brostep'?
Brostep is a term often used for the more intense, in-your-face style of dubstep that became popular in the early 2010s. It's known for its loud, distorted bass drops and aggressive energy. Chill dubstep is pretty much the opposite; it's much calmer, less about overwhelming the listener with sound and more about creating a smooth, often emotional atmosphere. It's like comparing a gentle breeze to a powerful storm.
Is 'chillstep' a real subgenre, or is it just dubstep?
That's a good question! Some people argue that all dubstep is just dubstep, and terms like 'chillstep' are just ways to describe different moods or styles within the genre. Others see it as a distinct subgenre because it has a different feel and focus compared to the original, darker sounds of dubstep that came out of South London. Either way, it's all about the vibe you're going for.
Where did dubstep originally come from?
Dubstep actually started in South London, UK, in the early 2000s. It grew out of other UK electronic music styles like 2-step garage and drum and bass. The early dubstep sound was often darker, more minimal, and focused on heavy basslines and syncopated rhythms, creating a really deep and atmospheric feel.
Can you recommend some classic chill dubstep tracks?
Absolutely! Some tracks that really capture that chill vibe include Skream's 'Midnight Request Line,' Benga and Coki's 'Night,' and Digital Mystikz's 'Anti War Dub.' These older tracks often have a deep, moody atmosphere that laid the groundwork for what people now call chillstep. You might also enjoy Flight Facilities' remix of 'Crave You' by Adventure Club for a more modern, melodic take.
What makes a dubstep track 'deep'?
When people talk about 'deep' dubstep, they usually mean tracks that have a strong sense of atmosphere and emotion. This often comes from the basslines, which are powerful but smooth rather than harsh. It also involves using spacious arrangements, reverb, and sometimes vocal samples or melodies that create a feeling of depth and immersion. It's less about sudden, aggressive drops and more about a consistent, enveloping sound.