Urban Shakedown’s Some Justice stands as a seminal track in the evolution of UK rave music. Released in 1991, this single marked a pivotal moment in the transition from acid house to the burgeoning jungle and hardcore scenes. The collaboration between Urban Shakedown and Micky Finn brought forth a track that not only defined a genre but also encapsulated the raw energy and innovation of early 90s rave culture.
Origins and Release
Some Justice was released under the Urban Takeover label, a platform known for championing underground rave and hardcore tracks. The single featured two primary mixes the Original Mix and the Concrete Jungle Mix. Both versions showcased a fusion of breakbeats, basslines, and ragga influences, setting them apart from the mainstream dance music of the time. The track quickly gained traction in the UK rave scene, becoming a staple in DJ sets and earning a spot on the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number 23 on June 27, 1992, and remaining in the top 40 for several weeks.
Musical Composition
The composition of Some Justice is a testament to the innovative spirit of the early 90s rave scene. The track opens with a distinctive bassline that immediately captures attention, accompanied by rapid breakbeats that drive the rhythm forward. Ragga-style vocal samples add an energetic layer, while the use of the Funky Drummer breakbeat provides a familiar yet fresh foundation. These elements combined to create a sound that was both innovative and accessible, appealing to a wide audience and influencing countless producers in the years that followed.
Key Elements of the Track
- BreakbeatsThe use of rapid, chopped-up breakbeats provided the track with its signature rhythm, drawing from hip-hop and funk influences.
- BasslinesDeep, resonant basslines anchored the track, giving it a powerful presence on the dancefloor.
- Ragga VocalsThe incorporation of ragga-style vocal samples added an energetic and cultural dimension to the track.
- Funky Drummer BreakSampling James Brown’s iconic breakbeat lent the track a familiar yet innovative feel, bridging genres and eras.
Impact on the Rave Scene
The release of Some Justice had a profound impact on the UK rave scene. It represented a shift towards more complex and layered productions, moving away from the simplistic structures of early acid house. The track’s success demonstrated the growing appetite for harder, faster, and more intricate sounds within the rave community. DJs and producers alike embraced the track, incorporating its elements into their sets and productions, thereby influencing the direction of UK rave music in the years to come.
Legacy and Influence
Decades after its release, Some Justice continues to be celebrated as a classic in the annals of UK rave history. Its influence can be heard in the works of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from the early rave and jungle scenes. The track has been remixed and re-released multiple times, each iteration introducing it to new generations of listeners and ensuring its place in the pantheon of rave music. Additionally, the collaboration between Urban Shakedown and Micky Finn set a precedent for future partnerships in the genre, highlighting the power of collaboration in pushing musical boundaries.
Remixes and Re-releases
- Some Justice (Concrete Jungle Mix)A darker, more atmospheric take on the original, emphasizing the track’s jungle influences.
- Some Justice ’95A reimagined version featuring updated production techniques, bridging the gap between classic rave and modern electronic music.
- Burnin’ PassionA follow-up track that continued the themes and sounds established in Some Justice, further cementing the duo’s influence in the scene.
Urban Shakedown’s Some Justice remains a landmark track in the history of UK rave music. Its innovative blend of breakbeats, basslines, and ragga vocals captured the essence of early 90s rave culture and set the stage for the evolution of jungle and hardcore music. The track’s enduring popularity and influence attest to its status as a timeless classic, revered by both original ravers and new listeners discovering its energy and innovation. As the rave scene continues to evolve, Some Justice stands as a testament to the genre’s roots and the creative spirit that drives it forward.