Members
Select a Urban Dance Squad band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Urban Dance Squad is a pioneering Dutch band that emerged from Utrecht, Netherlands, blending genres like hip hop, funk rock, rap metal, and rap rock to create a unique and influential sound. Formed in 1986, the band consists of Patrick Tilon (vocals), René van Barneveld (guitar), Silvano Matadin (bass), Michel Schoots (drums), and Arjen de Vreede (turntables). Their dynamic live performances and innovative fusion of live instrumentation with hip hop elements such as rap and scratching set them apart, inspiring a wave of new musicians and bands. Their debut album, Mental Floss for the Globe, introduced hits like "Deeper Shade of Soul," cementing their place in music history as trailblazers of the crossover genre.
How to Sound Like Urban Dance Squad
Urban Dance Squad’s sound is characterized by an energetic and gritty fusion of aggressive guitar riffs, funky bass lines, and rhythmic rap vocals, creating a powerful and raw sonic experience. Their music balances dirty, distorted guitar tones with the rhythmic undercurrents of hip hop, often leveraging gear like the Fender Telecaster and Marshall DriveMaster to achieve their hard-hitting yet melodic sound. The vibrant combination of live drums and the distinctive scratch of turntables injects an organic feel, while effects like the Dunlop Cry Baby GCB-95 add a signature wah-infused edge, making their tracks both punchy and dynamic. Urban Dance Squad's music thrives on its high-energy delivery and genre-defying creativity, making it a benchmark for musicians seeking to explore hybrid musical landscapes.
Discography
Get the Urban Dance Squad Sound
Want to sound like Urban Dance Squad? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.