Liquid drum and bass producers often mix sampled drum loops with individual drum hits to create a more complex sound. For example, a producer can create a thick snare sound by layering a snare sample over the snares in a drum loop. The producer can also layer multiple drum loops for a similar effect. Another common technique involves using multiple snares set at different pitches. This adds extra complexity to the drum track, often creating a melodic feel to the snare pattern.
Bass lines in liquid drum and bass perform more like a deep pad than a traditional bass. The droning bass flows under the drums to fill out the low frequencies of the song and provides the foundation for the snare-heavy drum track. When composing bass lines, the best results come when the range stays within one octave. Otherwise, the bass may overpower the song or drown out the kick drum.
Atmospheric elements separate liquid drum and bass from its non-liquid namesake. Liquid drum and bass uses swirling, echoing pads and ambient sound effects to create a dreamy feel, while the mechanical drums and rolling bass line drive the track forward. To add atmosphere to a track, a producer relies on reverb. The addition of reverb to a song element pushes the element into the mix and makes it seem somewhat distant. Reverb lets the producer create the illusion of distance between song elements.
Liquid drum and bass vocals blend into the overall ambience of the song. Rather than being the center of attention, the vocal track floats above the low-frequency foundations of the song. Producers apply reverb and delay effects to keep the vocals from overwhelming other song elements. These effects also add to the atmosphere of the song. The source of vocals depends on a producer's preference. Some prefer to record vocalists, while others prefer to use sample collections.