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. 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.