Ulterior Motive

Ulterior Motive is a Bournemouth drum and bass group active since 2010, made up of Greg Hepworth and Submotive. The duo also works under the names James Davidson and Greg Hepworth, and they emerge from the same scene that values technical, futuristic and funk-led drum and bass. Their sound sits within drum and bass and electronic music, with clear links to techstep and neurofunk through their emphasis on detailed production, heavy bass and precise breaks.

Formation and style

Greg Hepworth and James Davidson begin working together in 2003, developing material after sharing an interest in the style of drum and bass associated with Ed Rush & Optical. They build their early sound using custom hand-built studio equipment alongside modern production methods, then start sending out demos. Their production approach becomes known for crisp rhythms, cheeky percussion and strong basslines.

Recordings and label work

Ulterior Motive first gains attention through early singles on Subtitles. Teebee signs Infrasonic / Holding On to Never for the group’s debut single on the label. Two further 12-inch singles follow in 2010: Featherweight / Glued and 2098 / Yoghurt Brainwave. These releases help establish the group’s reputation for precise, innovative drum and bass. The group is also associated with Guidance as a label.

Reception and reputation

Featherweight is identified as one of the standout tracks from the Sun & Bass Festival in 2009, and it becomes widely played by selectors in the scene. Their tracks receive support from DJs including Noisia, DJ Marky, Marcus Intalex, Alix Perez, Loxy, Calyx, Commix, Break, Icicle and Kasra. Ulterior Motive’s music becomes a regular feature for respected DJs and develops a strong reputation in drum and bass circles.

Collaborations and DJ work

The group works with Jubei, Rockwell, Zero T, Sabre and FD. Both members also appear as DJs in their own right, with performances for Renegade Hardware, Ram and Sun & Bass, as well as live sets across the UK and Europe.