Category:2 Step

2-Step (or 2-Step Garage) is a subgenre of UK garage that emerged in the late 1990s, characterized by its syncopated drum patterns and shuffled rhythms. Unlike traditional house or 4x4 garage, 2-Step typically omits the constant kick drum on every beat, creating a distinctive, skippy groove. It incorporates elements from R&B, jungle, and dancehall, often featuring soulful vocals and deep basslines.

Characteristics

• Syncopated drum patterns, usually avoiding a steady four-on-the-floor kick drum.
• Shuffling hi-hats and snappy snares, contributing to the genre’s swing and groove.
• Deep basslines, often inspired by jungle and dub sounds.
• R&B-influenced melodies and vocals, with many tracks featuring chopped or pitched vocal samples.
• Sparse but effective use of atmospheric pads and synths, adding depth to the sound.

Artists and Labels

2-Step gained popularity in the UK garage scene and was championed by labels such as:

• Locked On
• Pure Silk
• Swing City Records

Notable artists in the genre include:

• MJ Cole
• Artful Dodger
• El-B
• Zed Bias
• Wookie
• Todd Edwards (credited with influencing the sound with his signature vocal cut-up techniques)