Breakbeat Science was a significant entity in the drum and bass music scene, particularly in the United States. Founded in 1996 in Manhattan, New York City, by DJs DB and Dara, Breakbeat Science operated both as a record label and a record store, becoming the first in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to Drum and Bass music. At its inception, the Drum and Bass scene was still primarily based in the UK, making Breakbeat Science a pioneering establishment in the American context.
The record store moved locations several times over the years, initially situated on 9th Street and later moving to Orchard Street in Manhattan's East Village. After the closure of the Orchard Street location, the remaining backstock was moved to the Halcyon record shop in Dumbo, Brooklyn. Sadly, Halcyon announced its closure in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Breakbeat Science Recordings, the label side of the business, was known for its association with respected DJs and producers. This includes DJ DB, DJ Dara, Pieter K, DJ Abstract, and AK1200, among others. It played a significant role in introducing and popularizing UK acts like High Contrast, London Elektricity, and Klute in the United States. The label also collaborated with other labels, such as Hospital Records, to bring diverse Drum and Bass acts to a broader audience. Furthermore, they cultivated American talent through their sublabel, Orgone.
In 2007, Breakbeat Science closed its doors, but its impact on the Drum and Bass scene, particularly in fostering and nurturing the genre in the U.S., remains significant. More recently, a limited edition line of Breakbeat Science merchandise was launched, paying homage to the legacy and influence of this iconic brand in the Drum and Bass world.
For more information, you can visit their official websites: Wikipedia page on Breakbeat Science, Global Space Host, and BBS Gear.