Tearout Dubstep has emerged as one of the most punishing yet emotionally charged branches of modern bass music. Defined by its crushing basslines, metallic textures, and cinematic intensity, it bridges the worlds of dubstep, deathstep, and even metal, creating a sound that’s as visceral as it is immersive. With the release of Tearout Dubstep by Dropgun Samples, produced by Trinergy and Phase Shifting, we sat down to dig deeper into the genre’s history, its signature sound design, and the artists pushing it forward.
Q: Tell us about the history of this style of music. Where did it originate? What is the culture or story that surrounds its development? Are there related genres or styles that it merged or evolved from?
A: Tearout Dubstep grew out of classic dubstep but quickly developed its own aggressive and industrial identity. While the early dubstep was dark and minimalist, Tearout is pure sonic aggression. It absorbed elements of deathstep, riddim, and brostep, adding metallic textures, pan snares, and "machine-gun basses." The genre often overlaps with metal and rock, especially through the use of heavy guitar riffs and drums. This makes Tearout ideal for those seeking a dark yet powerful sonic atmosphere.
Q: Who are the key innovators of this style of music? What noteworthy artists are incorporating influences from it today?
A: The first name that comes to mind is MARAUDA — tracks like “RIP” and “Casket” set the standard for the entire genre. Other notable names include SVDDEN DEATH, Oddprophet, Subfiltronik, and Code: Pandorum. These artists not only shaped the Tearout sound but also inspired a whole generation of producers. Among the newer names, DVEIGHT, Kronomikal, and Knoir stand out. Their approach to sound design and commitment to innovation continue to push the genre forward.
Q: How would you define the sound of this style? What specific instruments, musical patterns, etc. does it employ most often?
A: Tearout is all about powerful growls, aggressive drums, and distinct “gun shots.” Gun shots are short, metallic bass synths with sharp attack that form the rhythmic backbone of the drop. The genre is also known for “pan snares,” which sound like hitting a metal surface, and “machine-gun basses,” which create a barrage-like auditory effect. All these elements come together to form a dense, saturated wall of sound that completely engulfs the listener.
Q: How do you approach telling the story of this style of music through your sounds? Are there specific compositional, recording, or sound design techniques that you gravitate towards?
A: Producing Tearout requires meticulous attention to detail. Complex FM synthesis techniques are used to create distorted basses, often with plugins like Serum and Ableton Operator. Mixing focuses on achieving maximum density and intensity, emphasizing aggressive compression and distortion. It's crucial for every element to have its place in the mix, creating a sense of sonic pressure without losing clarity and definition.
Q: What makes this style of music special to you? What inspired you to create sounds that revolve it?
A: For us, Tearout is a way to express dark and intense emotions through music. We especially appreciate tracks that combine elements of classical music — reminiscent of horror movie soundtracks — with aggressive bass and drums. This contrast between epicness and brutality creates a unique atmosphere that deeply resonates with us. Working in this genre allows us to convey our inner experiences and create something truly powerful and emotional.
Q: Are there any other insights you'd like to provide readers around this style of music?
A: Early Tearout Dubstep: One of the first tracks to anticipate the Tearout sound is “Spongebob” by Coki, released in 2007. It stood out for its aggressive mid-range basses and became a precursor to the heavier side of dubstep.
Genre pioneers: Subfiltronik is considered one of the founders of Tearout Dubstep. His tracks like “Evil Clap” and “Harbinger” set the standard for aggressive sound design and powerful bass, becoming genre benchmarks.
The shift from Deathstep to Tearout: From 2016 to 2019, Deathstep was a popular genre, but over time many artists — including Code: Pandorum — began experimenting with a new sound that became known as Tearout. This style preserved the aggression of Deathstep but became more melodic and diverse.
Tearout Dubstep isn’t just a subgenre — it’s a visceral experience where intensity, precision, and raw emotion collide. From its early foundations in dubstep’s darker corners to its current role as a boundary-pushing movement, Tearout continues to inspire a new wave of producers and listeners who crave something heavier. Whether you’re here for the machine-gun basslines, the metallic textures, or the sheer catharsis of its sound, Tearout proves that electronic music still has the power to shock, overwhelm, and completely consume.