The U.B.'S - Synthetic Substitution

A-Side – Synthetic Substitution (Melody Mix)

The U.B.’s take on Melvin Bliss’ 1973 funk classic “Synthetic Substitution” gives one of hip-hop’s most famous breaks a fresh instrumental treatment. The track retains the instantly recognisable drum intro and deep, moody groove of the original, but adds a soulful guitar lead with a distinctly jazz-funk feel. The U.B.’s were assembled by Victor “Undercover Brother” Piagneri and approached these classic breaks as musicians rather than simply reproducing them.

B-Side – Synthetic Substitution (Instrumental Mix)

The flip strips away the melodic lead and puts the rhythm section front and centre. Tight drums, bass and percussion make this version particularly useful for DJs and beat heads, allowing the underlying groove to breathe. The release was issued as a 45-only pressing, making it a natural choice for the breakbeat and B-boy crowd.

Legacy & Influence

Melvin Bliss’ original “Synthetic Substitution” has become a cornerstone of hip-hop sampling, with its drums appearing on tracks by artists including Audio Two, Onyx and Wu-Tang Clan. Audio Two’s “Chillin” samples the original hook/riff, while Onyx’s “Nigga Bridges” uses its drums.

The U.B.’s version sits within the Ultimate Breaks & Beats tradition, recreating a legendary break for a new generation of DJs and producers while adding its own musical character. For crate diggers, it’s a great example of the journey from original funk recording, to hip-hop sample, to a modern musician’s reinterpretation of the break.