New Zealand’s Sonic Innovators in Drum & Bass
Early Life and Background
Jeremy Glenn and Dylan Jones
Jeremy Glenn and Dylan Jones were both born in New Zealand, though specific birth dates remain largely undisclosed in public records. Raised in an environment geographically distant from the traditional hubs of electronic music such as London or Berlin, their early exposure to music came through a combination of imported recordings, local radio, and burgeoning digital platforms.
Growing up in Wellington, a city known for its vibrant arts culture, both Glenn and Jones developed a fascination with sound from a young age. Their formative influences extended beyond electronic music into rock, hip-hop, and experimental genres—an eclectic foundation that would later inform their distinctive sonic palette.
Education and Early Musical Exploration
The duo’s musical education was largely self-directed, shaped by experimentation with early production software and a shared curiosity about sound engineering. Like many producers of their generation, they honed their craft through trial and error, gradually developing a deep understanding of synthesis, sampling, and rhythm programming.
Formation of The Upbeats
Jeremy Glenn and Dylan Jones formed The Upbeats in the early 2000s, united by a shared passion for drum and bass and a desire to innovate within the genre.
Their geographic isolation became an unexpected advantage. Removed from the stylistic pressures of larger scenes, they were free to develop a sound that was unconventional, highly technical, and forward-thinking.
Their early releases quickly gained attention from international labels, signaling that a new force in drum and bass had emerged from an unlikely corner of the world.
Breakthrough and Rise to Prominence
Early Releases and International Recognition
The Upbeats gained early traction through releases on respected drum and bass labels, including:
- Hospital Records
- Bad Taste Recordings
Their innovative approach caught the attention of leading figures in the scene, including:
- Noisia
The endorsement and collaboration with Noisia proved pivotal, helping to introduce The Upbeats to a global audience.
Debut Album – Nobody’s Out There (2009)
Their debut album established them as serious contenders within the genre. Featuring a blend of heavy basslines and experimental textures, the album showcased their ability to balance technical complexity with musical coherence.
Artistic Evolution and Defining Works
Primitive Technique (2013)
This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, leaning further into the neurofunk aesthetic—a subgenre characterized by intricate sound design and futuristic tones.
Beyond Reality (2016)
A conceptually ambitious project, Beyond Reality explored themes of perception and consciousness, blending high-energy tracks with atmospheric interludes.
Not Forever (2019)
Widely regarded as one of their most mature works, this album demonstrated a refined balance between aggression and musicality. It also featured collaborations with a range of vocalists and producers, highlighting their versatility.
Collaborations and Industry Influence
The Upbeats have collaborated extensively with leading artists in drum and bass and beyond, including:
- Noisia
- Spor
- State of Mind
- Shapeshifter
Their collaborative work has contributed significantly to the evolution of neurofunk and techstep, helping to define the sound of modern drum and bass.
Musical Style and Influences
Signature Sound
The Upbeats are known for:
- complex rhythmic structures
- aggressive, sculpted basslines
- innovative sound design
- cinematic atmospheres
Their music often feels futuristic, drawing listeners into immersive sonic environments that challenge conventional expectations.
Influences
Their influences span a wide spectrum, including:
- early drum and bass pioneers
- experimental electronic music
- rock and industrial genres
- hip-hop production techniques
This diversity has allowed them to craft a sound that is both technically advanced and emotionally engaging.
Live Performances and Global Touring
The Upbeats have built a strong reputation as dynamic live performers, known for their high-energy DJ sets and meticulous mixing.
They have performed at major international festivals, including:
- Let It Roll
- Boomtown Fair
Their performances often feature:
- rapid-fire mixing
- exclusive unreleased material
- powerful crowd interaction
Challenges and Industry Navigation
Operating from New Zealand presented early logistical challenges, including:
- distance from major music markets
- limited access to industry networks
However, The Upbeats overcame these barriers through persistence and innovation, leveraging digital platforms to reach global audiences.
Like many artists in electronic music, they have also navigated the pressures of maintaining relevance in a rapidly evolving genre, continually pushing their sound forward to stay ahead of trends.
Personal Lives and Artistic Philosophy
Jeremy Glenn and Dylan Jones have maintained a relatively private personal profile, focusing public attention on their music rather than their personal lives.
Their artistic philosophy centers on:
- innovation
- technical excellence
- pushing creative boundaries
They have often emphasized the importance of experimentation and the willingness to take risks—qualities that have defined their career.
Discography Overview
Studio Albums
| Year | Album |
|---|---|
| 2009 | Nobody’s Out There |
| 2013 | Primitive Technique |
| 2016 | Beyond Reality |
| 2019 | Not Forever |
Selected Tracks
- Say Go
- Dead Limit (with Noisia)
- Alone (with Tasha Baxter)
- Diffused
- Realm
Awards and Recognition
| Year | Recognition | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Various | Drum & Bass Arena Awards (Nominations) | Best Producer / Best Track |
| 2010s–2020s | Global festival bookings | International acclaim |
| Ongoing | Streaming success | Millions of global plays |
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Upbeats have played a crucial role in shaping the modern neurofunk sound, influencing a generation of producers who prioritize technical precision and sonic innovation.
Their contributions include:
- advancing sound design techniques in drum and bass
- expanding the genre’s global reach
- demonstrating that world-class electronic music can emerge from outside traditional industry hubs
They stand as pioneers not only of a sound, but of a mindset—one that values creativity without boundaries.
Recent Activity and Continuing Evolution
Into the 2020s, The Upbeats continue to release new music, collaborate with leading artists, and perform at major events worldwide. Their work remains at the cutting edge of drum and bass, reflecting a commitment to evolution and artistic growth.
The story of The Upbeats is one of vision, persistence, and relentless creativity. From Wellington to the world stage, Jeremy Glenn and Dylan Jones have redefined what drum and bass can be—transforming it into a platform for innovation and artistic exploration.
For newcomers, their music offers an electrifying introduction to the genre’s more technical and futuristic dimensions. For seasoned listeners, it stands as a testament to the power of boundary-pushing artistry.
