TFword Picks: The Best Drum & Bass Tracks of 2025 So Far

We’ve handpicked a collection of tracks that have been on heavy rotation in our playlists this year, defining the sound of 2025 until now.

We’re not even 50 days into 2025, and drum & bass has already weaponized its own momentum, blasting out releases at a pace that feels borderline unhinged. The sheer volume and quality of music dropping from both established legends and rising stars have left us breathless, struggling to keep up with the relentless conveyor belt of top-tier tracks.

Be it labels, individual releases, compilations, or collectives—drum & bass has come out swinging in 2025 with a ferocity that’s impossible to ignore. The genre is firing on all cylinders, delivering a relentless onslaught of music that spans its entire spectrum, from soulful liquid rollers that tug at your heartstrings to earth-shaking neurofunk bangers designed to obliterate dancefloors. The sheer volume and quality of releases have left fans in a state of euphoric overwhelm, scrambling to keep up with the conveyor belt of must-hear tunes.

We’ve somehow managed to catch our breath—barely—while keeping track of the avalanche of drum & bass releases this year, and in the process, we’ve handpicked the tracks that are already shaping up to be anthems or quietly cementing themselves as underground staples. The genre’s output in 2025 has been nothing short of staggering, with every corner of the DnB universe delivering something worth celebrating. Whether it’s festival-ready bangers destined to dominate main stages or low-key rollers that are finding their way into the hearts of heads in intimate club settings, the music speaks for itself.

CULTURE SHOCK & GRAFIX – ‘GIANTS’ (FT. SADHAPPY)

Kicking things off with a track that’s quickly becoming one of the genre’s most beloved singalongs, courtesy of two legendary veterans of the scene. Their last collaboration was a dark, heavyweight banger that dropped toward the end of last year, but this time, they’ve flipped the script entirely. The new offering is a radiant, feel-good anthem—warm, bouncy, and brimming with that fuzzy, uplifting energy that instantly puts a smile on your face and a spring in your step.

HALOGENIX – ‘PUSHA’

Since launching his label nearly two years ago, Halogenix has cemented his status as one of drum & bass’ most forward-thinking innovators, consistently pushing boundaries and delivering groundbreaking music—including his critically acclaimed debut solo album. Now, as 2025 kicks off, Halogenix is doubling down on his mission to elevate the genre with the ‘Gemini Music Club’ compilation. This project brings together a handpicked roster of rising and established talent, showcasing the depth and diversity of the scene. Among the standout tracks is ‘Pusha,’ a slick, funky, and effortlessly cool club cut that balances pace with a laidback groove, proving once again why Halogenix remains at the forefront of drum & bass evolution.

CATCHING CAIRO, LZEE & BASTION – ‘OPEN SEASON’

Catching Cairo has swiftly solidified her position as one of the most formidable voices in drum & bass, known for her magnetic presence and impeccable collaborations. Keeping that momentum alive, she teams up with LZee and Bastion for her second release of 2025, ‘Open Season.’ With its infectious vibe and undeniable groove, it’s the kind of tune that thrives in the raw, intimate energy of a club setting which is guaranteed to have gun fingers in the air and voices singing along the moment it drops.

OPERATE FEAT. MADRUSH MC – ‘ONE BY ONE’ (VISLA REMIX)

There’s a genuine hope that this track finds its way into the hearts of the drum & bass underground, as it’s the ultimate club weapon—a certified foot-stomper with undeniable energy. Once crowds catch onto its full potential, there’ll be no holding back this absolute powerhouse of a rework by VISLA of Operate’s 2022 single ‘One By One.’ It’s charging forward with relentless drive, haunting in its atmosphere, and utterly crushing in its impact—exactly the kind of sonic intensity you’d expect from an Overview Music release.

HYBRID MINDS & LYVIA – ‘TEAR DROPS’

The undisputed masters of crafting iconic drum & bass anthems have kicked off their year with a euphoric masterpiece, enlisting one of the UK’s most captivating voices, LYVIA. Breaking away from their signature, stripped-back style, Hybrid Minds take a fresh, steppy approach on ‘Tear Drops,’ a track that’s already poised to be a standout contender in the “tune of the year” conversations by December 2025. With its emotive vocals, driving rhythm, and unmistakable Hybrid Minds touch, this one is destined to resonate deeply and dominate playlists for months to come.

MC CONRAD – ‘PLAY BACK’ (FT. MAKOTO)

The drum & bass community faced a profound loss in 2024 with the passing of MC Conrad, one of the genre’s most iconic and soul-stirring voices. His words and presence touched the lives of hundreds of thousands, leaving an indelible mark on the scene. To honor his extraordinary journey, his close friend and Japanese drum & bass legend, Makoto, spearheaded the release of Connatural* in January. This heartfelt project brings together some of the finest producers and vocalists in the genre, alongside never-before-heard material from Conrad himself.

The result is a deeply moving album that pays tribute to his legacy as a true pioneer of drum & bass music. For those who wish to support, all proceeds from album sales via Bandcamp will go directly to Conrad’s family and the MC Conrad Foundation, ensuring his spirit and contributions continue to inspire future generations.

QZB – ‘CORPO’

Whatever this Swiss duo does, it’s always measured, razor-sharp, and dripping with power. QZB has carved out a reputation for delivering precision-engineered drum & bass that hits hard and leaves a lasting impression. Their track ‘Corpo,’ which featured as part of Let It Roll’s electrifying opening ceremony, is a perfect example of their signature sound—a high-octane, speed-shaving vibe that QZB has become widely celebrated for. With its relentless energy, intricate production, and bone-rattling basslines, ‘Corpo’ is a masterclass in crafting a cerebral and visceral track. 

MAKOTO – ‘SEPTEMBER’

Summer has arrived early over at Hospital Records, as the legendary Makoto makes a triumphant return to the label—and to our list—with a track that perfectly encapsulates why his music is some of the most joyous and uplifting drum & bass out there. ‘September’ is a sun-soaked, melody-rich masterpiece that feels like it was tailor-made for beachside sunsets and open-air festivals. With its breezy, pacey rhythm and infectious positivity, this tune is destined to become a fan favorite for the summer of 2025.

Whether it’s blasting through festival speakers or providing the perfect backdrop for a road trip, ‘September’ is poised to become one of the summer soundtracks of the season.

NAPES – ‘TOKYO DRITFING’

It doesn’t matter if you’re not in Tokyo—this absolute belter from NAPES, one of the fastest-rising stars in the bass music scene, will have you feeling like you’re tearing through the city’s neon-lit streets, hands gripping the wheel and adrenaline pumping. With its high-octane energy, slick production, and relentless drive, ‘Tokyo Drifting’ is the kind of track that demands to be played at full volume, whether you’re in a car, at a rave, or just daydreaming about your next adventure.

Making his full debut on Alix Perez’s 1985 Music, NAPES has delivered a knockout with the ‘Shooters Hill’ EP which is a masterclass in modern bass music, blending elements of drum & bass, halftime, and experimental sound design into a cohesive and electrifying package. 

EN:VY – ‘SILVER RIFF’

Bringing the Critical Music crew to the party is none other than En:vy, a true champion of the deep, rolling sound that has become synonymous with his name. Marking Critical Music’s second release of the year—and his first of the year on the legendary label—En:vy has delivered a meticulously crafted EP that showcases his signature style while staying true to the label’s underground ethos. The ‘Silver Riff’ EP provides the perfect balance of lush, atmospheric production with the gritty, forward-thinking aesthetics that Critical Music is known for.

From the hypnotic, sub-driven rollers that lock you into a groove to the darker, more intricate cuts that push the boundaries of the genre. Whether you’re losing yourself in the depths of a dark club or soaking up the vibes at home, this EP is a testament to the enduring power of deep, rolling drum & bass.

POLA & BRYSON, JELANI BLACKMAN – ‘STAMPEDE’

For over two years, Pola & Bryson have consistently proven their knack for crafting unforgettable tracks that sit at the cutting edge of drum & bass. With tunes like ‘Tell You What I Did,’ ‘Phoneline,’ and ‘Too Shy,’ the duo has cemented their status as one of the most vital acts on the Shogun Audio roster, delivering music that’s as emotive as it is innovative.

Their latest offering, ‘Stampede,’ featuring the unmistakable vocals of Jelani Blackman, is yet another testament to their unique artistry. The track is a masterclass in balance—weighty and funk-driven, with a bassline that hits hard yet grooves effortlessly. Jelani’s commanding, militant delivery adds a raw, gritty edge, creating a dynamic contrast to Pola & Bryson’s polished production.

SUSTANCE – ‘CYCLES’ FEAT. IYAMAH

Another Shogun Audio entry to close out this extensive list is this stunning collaboration between Sustance and the incredibly talented IYAMAH. Known for his hefty, bass-driven productions, Sustance takes a refreshing detour here, teaming up with IYAMAH for a smooth, groovy, and vocal-led offering that showcases a different side of his artistry.

IYAMAH’s soulful, honeyed vocals glide effortlessly over Sustance’s laid-back yet intricately crafted production, creating a vibe that’s both intimate and expansive. The groove is infectious, the melodies are lush, and the overall atmosphere is one of warmth and depth. 

Follow TFword on: Instagram | Facebook | X

Check out all new drum & bass tracks from 2025:

You May Also Like:

Bass Music Acts to Watch Out for in 2025

LOCUS Bali Returns for Its Second Edition in June 2025

Flux Pavilion and Doctor P Announce First Collaborative Album