Eight Dubstep Songs for England

For this list, we’ll be sticking to homegrown tracks produced at the height of the underground scene in the 2000s. That means no to Scary Monsters and Archangel, but yes to eight deep bass classics.

“Midnight Request Line” by Skream (2005)

Based in Croydon, Skream claims to have produced about 800 tracks in various stages of completion on the quintessential electronic music software, FruityLoops, one of which is dubstep’s most recognizable crossover hit, known for its deep yet melodic sound.

“Left Leg Out” by Mala (2006)

Mala (and Coki) of Digital Mystikz are considered to be godfathers of dubstep. The DMZ nights, supported by BBC Radio’s Mary Anne Hobbs, are considered to be pivotal in the development of the scene. Mala has bigger hits than “Left Leg Out,” but this record in particular showcases the genre’s eclectic influences, from Jamaican sound-system culture to Detroit techno.

“Cockney Thug” by Rusko (2007)

Dubstep originalists have a love-hate relationship with this track. It’s one of the genre’s biggest hits, but it was also a paradigm shift that ushered in a noisier, head-banging sound most commonly associated with Skrillex.

“9 Samurai” by Kode9 & The Spaceape (2006)

In addition to having a Ph.D in philosophy, Kode9 is the head of Hyperdub, an important dubstep label that introduced the world to Burial. Kode9’s production work draws on a variety of influences, which in this case includes a sample from the classic film Seven Samurai, adapted for a dark London sound.

“Night” by Benga & Coki (2008)

While Caspa and Rusko were spreading bass wobbles to the rest of the world, Benga and Coki were releasing their 2008 banger “Night,” a dark yet funky production still popular with grime artists today.

“Haunted / Anti War Dub” by Digital Mystikz (2006)

The vinyl single is dubstep’s medium of choice, best exemplified with Digital Mystikz’ “Haunted / Anti War Dub,” representing the genre’s two contrasting sounds. Only 2,000 copies were pressed, making it one of the most sought-after releases among collectors.