Phonica Mix Series 130 welcomes an artist who has defined and defied the rules of drum & bass like no other. dBridge, real name Darren White has been in the game for well over 30 years. Growing up listening to artists like DJ Randall & Grooverider on Rush FM when he was starting out shaped his ear for the sound that he would learn to grow with, love and mutate. With over 100 records released on labels like R&S, Convex, Metalheadz, Nonplus and more that span well into the 90’s dBridge has become a pioneer well in his own right. Not only that but his label Exit Records which not too long ago celebrated its 100th release has been a output determined to push the boundaries of experimental bass, D&B and more.
Having usually referred to himself as being producer first, it is not to be mistaken that White is a seasoned pro behind the decks. Having stepped into Worlds of his own playing with some of Drum & Bass’ biggest names like Doc Scott & Goldie, the artist has also stepped into lengthy b2b’s with Bass artist Youngsta and Techno legend Donato Dozzy (which he will do once more this Summer at Dekmantel).
For this mix dBridge has dedicated it to people around him, a friends and family mix of sorts. With heavy bassy tones from the get go and experimental techno and electro flowing throughout – it showcases the sure diversity of one of the best to do it! We had a brief chat with dBridge about the mix and what he has coming up below:
Hey Darren, thanks for joining us! Can you tell us about your mix and what the idea behind it was?
HI! wanted this mix to be about friends and family, and those who come from a different musical background than what’s being played. I wanted to explore the idea of non-conformity and how that can lead to interesting results. I know I’m known for making DnB, but I’ve always strived not to let it completely define me—more like something that informs my thinking and allows me to view other styles from a different perspective. I enjoy listening to DnB from people who aren’t traditionally known for making it, because they’re not constrained by the usual rules. So I think this mix is that in reverse. Plus I recently started writing under my Velvit moniker again and I wanted to explore that.
What are your preferred methods for finding new music—do you still enjoy digging around in dusty crates, or do you prefer to buy online?
I do enjoy digging through record shops. I always stop by Phonica when I’m in London and check out the back wall behind the counter. I’ve always been fascinated by that dynamic—going in with no real plan, picking up a record because you recognize a name or like the look of the cover, and the assistant offering something they think you might like based on that selection. It’s a peaceful experience. I get that it’s somewhat repeatable online—“customers who bought this also bought this”—but there’s something more to it when you’re physically in a shop. I miss being able to go to Black Market and see familiar faces. I recently moved to Thailand and put all my records into storage. It was quite cathartic boxing them up, seeing all the sleeves again, pausing to reconnect with them and be reminded of a time and place.
What are five records you couldn’t live without?
I have a special affinity for my Tangerine Dream collection—their music featured heavily in my sampling days. My J Dilla collection too—some of which I bought at Phonica (big up Nick!). Dilla reminds me of working with my brother and Spacek when they signed to K7!, and our nights at Plastic People. I also love the early records I bought before I got into DJing—mainly Stone Roses and The Doors.
What has been one of your most memorable sets over your career?
There’ve been a few that really stuck with me. Hardware and No U Turn at The End is a standout. The fear that setup put me in the first time I played there was unforgettable—being in the middle of all that energy was something else. The first time I played in Brazil as Bad Company was crazy. I’ve never seen or heard a crowd like that before or since. And while it’s technically not a live set, I’d also say the Autonomic Podcasts are some of the sets I’m most proud of. What we created—and where it took us—was a lot of fun. What do you have up your sleeve for 2025? I’ve literally just signed an album to a label I’ve admired for years. Can’t say more just yet, but I’m really happy about it. I’ve got a project with Joe Seven—some of which you can hear in this mix—and I’m excited to explore my live project with Madison Willing.
What do you have up your sleeve for 2025?
I’ve literally just signed an album to a label I’ve admired for years. Can’t say more just yet, but I’m really happy about it.
I’ve got a project with Joe Seven—some of which you can hear in this mix—and I’m excited to explore my live project with Madison Willing.
Thanks Darren 🙂
