Exclusive Interview: Captain Bass - A Journey into Drum and Bass

“My first experience with jump-up drum and bass was actually thanks to my younger brother,” he reflects. “After spending some time listening and analyzing the genre, I went to my first rave with friends. The energy and the crowd were like nothing I’d ever experienced before. That night, I decided this was what I wanted to do for a living—no hesitation, haha!”

From that pivotal night, Captain Bass began producing music at 18. Over time, he developed a signature style defined by bold basslines, intricate rhythms, and innovative transitions.

What sets Captain Bass apart is his ability to surprise and energize crowds through his tracks. His music thrives on unexpected moments, a technique he honed after countless nights on the rave scene. “I’ve always wanted to bring something unique to jump-up, to stand out,” he explains. “After going to a lot of raves, I noticed that crowd reactions were strongest during unexpected switches. That’s when I decided to experiment with fake drops and sudden transitions—they always catch the crowd off guard, and it’s so satisfying to see their reactions.”

For Captain Bass, jump-up drum and bass is about more than just sound; it’s about the tight-knit community that fuels it. “The sense of community is incredible. Everyone’s so supportive and friendly,” he says. “My fans are amazing—they follow me everywhere and go wild during my sets. They’re also super dedicated to the music, constantly asking about unreleased tracks or VIP edits. That hunger for new music really defines the genre.”

Captain Bass’s career has taken him to renowned stages like Tomorrowland and Rampage, but some gigs stand out more than others. “Pukkelpop has to be the most unforgettable,” he says. “It’s one of the biggest festivals in Belgium, and I went there for the first time as a teenager over 10 years ago. I told myself back then, ‘One day, I’ll play here,’ and this year it finally happened—it was surreal.”

Another milestone was Rampage Indoor at Belgium’s iconic Sportpaleis. “Playing in Belgium’s biggest venue was a dream come true, and the energy in that space was unmatched.” These performances have not only solidified his reputation but have also fueled his drive to keep pushing his music forward.

Captain Bass’s latest release on Crucast, Party Animal / When I Enter, showcases his versatility. While Party Animal is an adrenaline-pumping anthem, When I Enter offers a darker, nostalgic vibe that connects to his earlier sound.

“‘Party Animal’ all started with that fast, catchy melody—I knew it had potential to hype up a crowd,” he explains. “Then I focused on creating an unexpected switch and pairing it with the perfect vocal sample. I wanted the drop to feel dark yet energetic, with a solid flow that keeps people moving.”

In contrast, When I Enter was a track that resonated with fans long before its official release. “I actually made this track a while ago, but every time I played it live, the crowd went crazy. People kept asking when it would be released. It reflects a bit of my older style—it’s like a throwback but with a fresh edge.”

Working with Crucast has been a dream for Captain Bass. “They’re so professional and passionate about what they do. When I first started producing, I always dreamed of working with them, and now, fast forward, we’ve already released a few tracks together. And yes, there’s plenty more in the pipeline!”

Amid his whirlwind career, Captain Bass makes an effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle. “I try to wake up early and stick to a good sleep schedule during the week. Rest is so important, especially between shows and studio sessions,” he shares. “I also make an effort to eat healthy, hit the gym, go for runs, or play football. It’s all about staying active and keeping my mind and body in shape.”

Hedex has been a significant influence on his sound and career, inspiring not only his music but also his approach to social media. “Hedex has been a huge inspiration for me. His style, especially back in the day, aligns so much with what I do now,” he says. “Collaborating with him was a dream come true, and the fact that I can call him a friend now is surreal.”

With a vault of unreleased tracks and a dedicated team supporting his vision, Captain Bass is gearing up for an exciting future. “There’s so much in the works! I’ve got tons of unreleased music ready to go and some amazing shows lined up,” he says. “While I can’t share too many details just yet, I can say that I’m beyond excited for what’s coming. Stay tuned!”

From his beginnings as a rave-loving teenager to his rise as a leading figure in jump-up drum and bass, Captain Bass’s story is one of passion, creativity, and an unshakable connection with his fans. As he continues to innovate and grow, one thing is clear: Captain Bass is just getting started, and the best is yet to come.

Get "Party Animal/ When I Enter" On Beatport Now