Behind The Sound: Viridity
Emerging from the UK drum & bass scene, Viridity is building a sound that brings together production, DJing and vocals in a way that feels self-defined. Her music is deep, melodic, and energetic, reflecting both her influences and her evolving identity as an artist.
For this edition of Behind The Sound, we spoke to Viridity about her journey into drum & bass, the evolution of her sound, and the experiences shaping her path.
Origins & Background
Before stepping into drum & bass, what did your journey into music look like, and how did you first find your way into the genre?
I’ve always been into electronic music, and before I got into drum & bass I was mainly making house. When I moved to Bristol for uni, I found the type of DnB that resonated with me most. The scene there is so rich, and the raves in 2018 / 2019 especially were unreal.
You come from a classical music background, how has that shaped the way you approach producing music today?
To be honest, I wasn’t great at the classical grades or theory side of things, and in a way that’s what pushed me toward electronic music. I’m not a super technical producer either, but being a slower learner has actually made me more playful and experimental. I haven’t mastered either side yet, but chipping away at both feels like it’s taking me in the right direction.
Production, DJing & Voice
You occupy a rare space as a producer, DJ, and vocalist, how do those three roles influence one another creatively?
I kind of see them all as connected. Since I was little, I’ve wanted to be the kind of musician who does a bit of everything and brings the whole vision together, so producing, DJing, and vocals all feel like part of the same picture for me. When I’m slacking in one area, focusing on it usually shows me what else needs work, so each side pushes the others. It keeps me evolving, and makes everything feel more cohesive creatively.
How does performing live shape the way you think about producing in the studio?
Love this question! The most meaningful sets I’ve played are the ones where I really feel that human connection, like everyone’s in the same emotional space. That feeling pushes me to go back into the studio and write music with intention, something that carries a message.
Developing Your Sound
How would you describe the evolution of your sound since your earlier releases?
I’m starting to feel like I can finally execute a more polished sound, at least I hope so. It’s always hard to judge your own work when you’re so close to it. But I’m definitely able to be more ambitious with my ideas now and actually pull them off. My early tracks had musical merit, but the production wasn’t quite there yet. I can hear the growth, even if I’m still figuring it all out.
Your music often balances melodic emotion with strong bass-driven energy, how do you approach finding that balance?
That’s just what I love to listen to. My favourite artists are the ones who create music with both sonic and emotional depth, so that style naturally what comes out in what I make too.
“Feedback is important, but don’t change your vision for others.”
What influences, musical or otherwise, outside of drum & bass have played the biggest role in shaping your sound?
Technimatic, SpectraSoul, Nu:Tone and Pola & Bryson are my biggest DnB influences. I’ve always loved the deeper stuff too like Burial, Fracture and Dub Phizix. In terms of vocals, I grew up listening to Amy Winehouse, Etta James and London Grammar. They definitely shaped the way I write songs and the storyteller side of my music which I want to lean into more as I develop.
Growth & Opportunities
Being part of the Hospital Records Women in Drum & Bass mentorship programme seems like it was a significant step, what did that experience mean for you creatively and professionally?
Yes, absolutely! I learned so much about how the industry works, and they pushed me to develop my sound and think more critically about growing as an artist overall. I’m forever thankful for that experience and where it led me.
What advice would you give to producers, DJs and vocalists looking to break into the drum & bass scene today?
To keep at it! if you love it, just stick with it. Trust and nurture your creativity and what you’re trying to do. Feedback is important, but don’t change your vision for others.
“it’s amazing seeing people think outside the box, carve out their own lane, and push the scene forward.”
The Drum & Bass Scene
From your perspective as both a producer and performer, what excites you most about where drum & bass is heading right now?
There’s so much creativity right now! The tools for producing, improving performances and making DnB content have never been more accessible, so all kinds of creative people can jump in and do cool stuff. Before, the tech was super expensive, but now it’s amazing seeing people think outside the box, carve out their own lane, and push the scene forward.
“The most meaningful sets I’ve played are the ones where I really feel that human connection, like everyone’s in the same emotional space.”
What do you feel the drum & bass scene might be lacking at the moment, and could it benefit from more representation or perspectives in certain areas?
The scene is definitely lacking grassroots events. Big raves are everywhere now, but my favourite nights have always been the small sweatbox venues where everyone’s locked into the music and actually dancing. With social media, people have shifted into being observers instead of partakers, and I'd love to see that change.
I also think some promoters and labels could put more effort into genuinely diverse lineups and rosters. The talent is there, so there's really no excuse for the same white-male lineups again and again.
Creative Process
What risks or new directions are you excited to explore in your music?
I’d love to do a 100% Viridity set at some point. I’ve also been working with live musicians more, which is such an exciting direction for me. The Vibre Strings quartet and I did a show in Bristol, which was the highlight of my year. I want to bring that energy into my sets more and more… maybe sax, maybe piano… watch this space!
What part of the production process do you find the most challenging?
Definitely the technical side. It took me ages to get my mixes sounding even okay, and I still struggle. I just want to be able to execute all the ideas I have, but sometimes my technical skills hold me back. I’m always improving though, so hopefully it'll keep getting easier.
“I just love the idea of someone feeling inspired after hearing my music.”
What production techniques, plugins, or tools have become essential in shaping your sound?
Great question. I love Fresh Air (Slate Digital) and Soothe (oeksound). They are the best for making the tunes sound so airy and bright but whilst keeping the mix clean. Gen Dopamine (Overloud) is also a fab compressor with a great quality to it. Those are a couple of the game-changing ones I’m using at the moment.
How does collaborating with other artists influence your creative process?
I’ve learned so much just from being in the studio with other producers. Sharing tips has levelled up my workflow, helped me get past so many roadblocks, and made my tunes way more polished. Honestly, I’m super lucky to have been around some really great producers along the way.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, what kind of impact would you like your work to have within drum & bass?
I just love the idea of someone feeling inspired after hearing my music. The thought that something I’ve made could spark someone else’s creativity is honestly so cool to me. So yeah… that’s the goal.
Do you have any upcoming plans or projects that we should keep an eye out for?
Ah well I’m releasing lots of music this year with Shogun Audio. They’ve been helping me polish my sound and build my project over the last couple of years, and I’m so excited to finally have the music out.
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A huge thank you to Viridity for taking the time to speak with us, offering insight into her journey, creative process and the ideas shaping her music. Make sure sure to check out her latest single, Golden Skies with Acris!
Stay connected with Viridity, and keep an eye out for her upcoming projects.
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