Melvin Bliss - Synthetic Substitution
With
Max SedgleyMax Sedgley breaks down the iconic 'Synthetic Substitution' drum break - the two-bar groove sampled by Wu-Tang Clan, 50 Cent and Public Enemy - and how to practise it in halves.
What's in the course
19 lessons (0h 56m) · 2 free
01. Practice tips for drum breaks
Free lesson3:49
02. The Isley Brothers - Footsteps in the Dark
Free lesson4:33
03. The Isley Brothers - Footsteps in the Dark (top view)
0:55
04. Barry White - I'm Gonna Love You A Little Bit More
4:19
05. Barry White - I'm Gonna Love You A Little Bit More (top view)
0:55
06. Skull Snaps - It's A New Day
2:57
07. Skull Snaps - It's A New Day (top view)
0:54
08. Melvin Bliss - Synthetic Substitution
You are here7:16
09. Melvin Bliss - Synthetic Substitution (top view)
0:54
10. The Winstons - Amen, Brother
6:06
11. The Winstons - Amen, Brother (top view)
1:20
12. Banbarra - Shack Up
4:17
13. Banbarra - Shack Up (top view)
1:10
14. Marva Whitney - Unwind Yourself
5:06
15. Marva Whitney - Unwind Yourself (top view)
0:50
16. Chuck Brown & The Soul Searchers - Ashley's Roachclip
3:28
17. Chuck Brown & The Soul Searchers - Ashley's Roachclip (top view)
1:19
18. Steve Miller Band - Take The Money And Run
5:28
19. Steve Miller Band - Take The Money And Run (top view)
0:56
Lesson transcript
Music Lesson: Understanding the Break in "Synthetic Substitution" by Melvin Bliss
Today, we're diving into a track called "Synthetic Substitution" by Melvin Bliss, which features a highly recognized hip hop break.
Overview of the Break
A key characteristic of this break is its two-bar structure that pivots around the first beat of the second bar. Let's break it down:
- Pattern:
-
The main groove revolves around the fifth hit of the hi-hat.
-
This pointed hit, the first beat of the second bar, is crucial to the feel of the groove.
-
Features of the Break
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The break begins with a single hi-hat hit with no kick drum or snare, which is atypical for the start of a bar.
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This unusual choice adds:
- A pushed feel
- An urgent sound
- A lively energy to the break
-
Following this hit, there are three quick kicks, creating a focal point in the beat.
Practice Techniques
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To master this break, it's effective to practice it in halves:
- First Half: Focus on the kick that leads to the hi-hat.
- Second Half: Concentrate on the fast kick work.
-
Tips for Practicing:
- Play each half separately, then combine them.
- Gradually increase your speed:
- Start slow.
- Build up to a faster tempo without losing clarity.
Conclusion
By practicing this break, you'll enhance your kick drum technique, demonstrating that you don't need intricate patterns on the first beat. Sometimes, a simple hi-hat can effectively drive the groove in a raw and compelling way.
So, remember, that's "Synthetic Substitution" by Melvin Bliss, a fantastic example to work with!
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Meet your guru
Meet your guru
Max Sedgley is a British producer, drummer and DJ with a degree in classical music. His compositions have featured on numerous TV programmes and adverts, including the series Six Feet Under, and he was the drummer for drum & bass producer Roni Size. He also records under the name Cadien.
In his courses he teaches drumming from the ground up - sticking, core grooves and the eight-note rock pattern - and the iconic 60s and 70s drum breaks that have been sampled into countless modern records.
