In the fast-paced world of drum & bass, where genres splinter into subgenres and new tracks drop every week, only a few tunes earn the status of untouchable classics. These tracks are the ones that DJs can't resist spinning, fans know by heart, and newcomers can’t avoid because, simply put, they’re foundational. Three of these anthems—“The Nine” by Bad Company UK, “Messiah” by Konflict, and “Original Nuttah” by Shy FX and UK Apache—have helped shape drum & bass as we know it, each with its unique style and story. Let’s break down what makes these tracks so influential and why they still command respect.
“The Nine” by Bad Company UK – The Ultimate Dark Roller
Released in 1998 on Bad Company UK’s Inside the Machine EP, “The Nine” is often referred to as the quintessential drum & bass track. It’s dark, minimal, and brutal, rolling through speakers like a juggernaut that refuses to slow down. “The Nine” was produced by the legendary Bad Company UK crew—dBridge, Maldini, Vegas, and Fresh—who were known for pushing boundaries and developing a distinctly ominous sound that left a permanent mark on the genre.
“The Nine”’s distinctive, heavy bassline punches through any sound system, demanding attention with its raw energy and ominous atmosphere. Its rolling beat and relentless drive create an infectious groove that feels simultaneously smooth and menacing. The track’s success lies in its simplicity; there’s no fluff, just pure, stripped-down drum & bass perfection. Many fans consider it the definitive dark roller, and it’s no wonder it continues to make regular appearances in DJ sets decades after its release.
Even after two decades, “The Nine” has an almost mythical status. It’s one of those tunes that feels like it has a life of its own, frequently cited in “greatest drum & bass tracks of all time” lists. DJs love it because it’s timeless and still has the power to blow away crowds. For many, hearing “The Nine” for the first time is like a rite of passage—it’s the track that introduces them to the darker side of drum & bass and becomes a reference point for what the genre can achieve.
“Messiah” by Konflict – The Anthem of the Neurofunk Movement
If you’re a fan of neurofunk, chances are “Messiah” by Konflict has been a major influence. Released in 1999 on Renegade Hardware, “Messiah” quickly became an anthem for the emerging neurofunk sound, known for its futuristic, mechanical vibe and intense energy. The track was produced by Scottish duo Kemal and Rob Data, who are revered for their intricate production skills and forward-thinking approach to drum & bass.
“Messiah” takes listeners on a journey through layers of intricate sound design and a bassline that feels almost otherworldly. The track’s orchestral opening builds suspense, setting the stage for a monstrous drop that fans remember as one of the genre’s heaviest. It’s an assault on the senses, hitting hard with relentless precision. The complexity of “Messiah”’s sound design made it groundbreaking in its time and laid the foundation for the neurofunk subgenre that would follow.
Since its release, “Messiah” has remained a high watermark for neurofunk. It’s been remixed by countless producers and has a permanent spot in the hall of fame for drum & bass. Konflict’s influence on the genre is undeniable, with “Messiah” serving as a blueprint for producers who want to explore the darker, more cerebral side of drum & bass. It’s the kind of track that challenges listeners, demanding close attention and rewarding them with a complex soundscape that reveals more with every listen.
“Original Nuttah” by Shy FX and UK Apache – The Jungle Anthem That Started It All
If “The Nine” and “Messiah” represent the dark, technical side of drum & bass, then “Original Nuttah” by Shy FX and UK Apache is all about raw, unfiltered energy and iconic vocal hooks. Released in 1994, this track is often credited as one of the original jungle anthems, blending rapid breakbeats with reggae-inspired vocals and a raw edge that still hits just as hard today. Shy FX, a pioneer of the jungle sound, created an instant classic when he teamed up with vocalist UK Apache, whose high-energy vocals became a defining feature of the track.
The opening line, “Original nuttah, no surrender,” is so iconic that it still gets crowds hyped nearly 30 years later. “Original Nuttah”’s frenetic energy, infectious beats, and reggae-inspired rhythms make it instantly recognizable and guaranteed to energize any crowd. The track’s breakbeat-driven rhythm and raw energy defined the jungle sound, a precursor to drum & bass, and laid the groundwork for everything that would come next in the genre.
“Original Nuttah” isn’t just a track; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Its infectious beat and memorable lyrics have helped it cross over into mainstream recognition, and it continues to be a staple at drum & bass and jungle events. The track also inspired countless artists to experiment with reggae and dancehall influences, expanding the genre's sound palette. For fans and DJs alike, playing “Original Nuttah” is like paying homage to drum & bass’s roots, reminding everyone where the genre came from and why it still resonates.
What’s remarkable about “The Nine”, “Messiah”, and “Original Nuttah” is that they each represent a different aspect of drum & bass. “The Nine” captures the dark, raw energy; “Messiah” represents the technical complexity and futuristic vibes of neurofunk; and “Original Nuttah” embodies the genre’s connection to its jungle and reggae roots. Together, they show the diversity and depth that make drum & bass so compelling.
Even as production techniques and sounds evolve, these tracks hold their own. They’ve set standards for what drum & bass can be, and the fact that they’re still played at events today speaks to their power and influence. For any fan of drum & bass, these tracks are essential listening—not just as nostalgia, but as ongoing reminders of the genre’s spirit.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to drum & bass, experiencing these tracks in a live setting or even through a good pair of headphones can give you a real appreciation for the history and artistry of the genre. “The Nine”, “Messiah”, and “Original Nuttah” aren’t just songs; they’re chapters in the story of drum & bass. So, next time you hear that unforgettable bassline, that dark rolling beat, or that famous “Original nuttah” line, take a moment to appreciate the legacy these tracks have created. They’re the heartbeat of the scene—past, present, and future.
Image by horizonsmusic.co.uk