A Content Analysis Study of Distortion's Influence on Drum and Bass Music Production

This study uses content analysis and draws upon aesthetic theory and technological determinism as theoretical frameworks to explore contemporary approaches to the use of distortion within drum and bass production. To achieve this, it investigates online video tutorials created by professional drum and bass producers and online content creators in order to extract insights into their common working practice when using distortion in their work. The analysis highlights a prevalent use of aggressive distortion to transform bass timbres, which is a trend originating in the 1990s that continues to shape the genre's evolving aesthetic. Producers utilize built-in synthesizer effects for expedient distortion during sound design and specialized plugins for more intricate work during the final mix. It is also revealed that they use distortion to increase the texture of parallel processed audio groups, enhance the timbral attributes of percussion sounds and create general mix cohesion. Interestingly, despite the potential for significant experimentation among content producers, most tutorials focus on recreating established distortion techniques, showcasing a preference for re-construction over creative deviations from the norm. This research provides unique insights into the evolution. and impact of distortion and shows how established techniques persist while subtly evolving within the ever-changing production ecosystem.