Cliffhangaz: The UK's Pioneering Drum & Bass Collective

Cliffhangaz is a pioneering drum & bass and jungle collective from London, England. The group, formed in the early 2010s, has become a cornerstone of the modern underground scene, known for their authentic sound and prolific output.

Early career

Formed around 2012, Cliffhangaz emerged from the vibrant London underground, a direct product of the city's rich pirate radio heritage. The collective, comprising producers and DJs like Double O, Krugah, and Sense MC, initially gained traction through a series of self-released white label vinyl and digital EPs, establishing their raw, sample-heavy style on their own Cylon Recordings imprint.

Breakthrough

The collective's breakthrough moment arrived with their 2015 album "The Last Stand," which solidified their reputation beyond the UK. Critical acclaim from dedicated drum & bass media and consistent support from major DJs led to high-profile bookings at festivals like Boomtown, proving the commercial viability of their purist approach.

Key tracks

Champion Sound — This 2014 single became an instant anthem, perfectly encapsulating their fusion of classic jungle breaks with modern production weight.

Junglist — Featuring veteran MC Five Alive, this track is a definitive statement of intent and a staple in their live sets.

Ruffneck — A standout from "The Last Stand" album, praised for its intricate amen break manipulation and dark, rolling bassline.

Back To '94 — This later release exemplifies their commitment to the nostalgic, rave-inspired sound that defines their core aesthetic.

Following their breakthrough, Cliffhangaz maintained a relentless release schedule across various respected labels like Flexout Audio and Delta9 Recordings. Their collaborations with scene stalwarts such as Serum and Benny L further cemented their status as key players, while their own Cylon Recordings platform continued to launch new talent.

For fans of the authentic UK drum & bass sound, similar artists include Break, who shares a mastery of complex, funk-driven drum programming. The classic jungle influences are also heard in the work of Serial Killaz, another duo known for dancefloor-focused ragga elements. The deep, atmospheric side of the genre is explored by Alix Perez, though with a more contemporary halftime edge. Listeners might also appreciate Unglued for a similarly sample-heavy but often more experimental approach.

The music of Cliffhangaz is a regular feature on specialist drum & bass and jungle radio stations, particularly on independent online radio streams dedicated to electronic music. Their tracks are frequently spun on shows focusing on the deeper, more traditional end of the genre spectrum, connecting with a global audience of dedicated fans.

You can hear the essential drum & bass sounds of Cliffhangaz on radio stations featured here on onairium.com, where their catalog is regularly played across a network of stations specializing in underground electronic music.