Grime

Grime is a style of music, even a lifestyle to some. Similar to hip hop, grime borrows from a wide range of music styles. Grime is heavily influenced by hip hop and speed garage, essentially being a cross between the two. Other strong influences in grime include drum 'n' bass, dub, dubstep, reggea, and soul. Grime mc's spit slower than rave mc's (ie happy hardcore mc's), yet faster than most hip hop mc's. In terms of tempo, grime ranges between 120bpm and 140bpm usually following a 2/4 or 4/4 time signature. Grime has a very close, dry sound. Effects such as big reverbs, long echos, phazers and choruses etc are generally not used in grime production. Grime instrumentals have sparse beats, often sounding slightly off kilter or out of time. Basses borrow heavily from speed garage and drum 'n' bass while backing vocals are often sampled from soul and pop records. Sped up chipmonk voices are also ever popular. The grime scene in the UK is about the same size as the UK hip hop scene. Many artists cross over somewhat between the two styles in their flows. Most grime headz dress in track suits, baggy tees and baseball caps. Generally speaking, grime fans are young and live in urban areas.