Genre: Jazztronica, Hip Hop
For fans of: Jordan Rakei, Masego, Joe Armon-Jones, Jarreau Vandal
Get a feel for Blue Lab Beats…
Perks from Blue Lab Beats…
Get to know…
Very much the vanguards of London’s new-age Jazz scene is producer duo, Blue Lab Beats. Recently signed to the world-renown home of Jazz, Blue Note Records. As well as pioneering the nu-Jazz London scene sound, the duo have recently collaborated with names as diverse as Sampa the Great, Davido, Mr Eazi, Tiana Major9, Jaz Karis and more.
This new wave of Jazz includes a fusion of genres encapsulating the sounds of Jazz, Hip-Hop, Afrobeats and Electronica. Blue Lab Beats is a duo of Kwaten and Mrakpor – sometimes referred to as NK-OK and Mr DM. The pair’s ritualistic journey, which began when they met at WAC Arts, took its rise in NK-OK’s blue bedroom and soon began a global movement.
Representing London’s producer and multi-instrumentalist talent, together the group have pioneered their multi-generational sound with solo singles, a protracted list of live sessions and a global resume of features. The celebratory and care-free nature of their music has been championed on Spotify with nearly 10 million streams and was shown appreciation from Radio 1, Jamz Supernova, NME Radio, Boiler Room, Jazz FM and more. Fans may have also spotted them gracing the stages of Glastonbury, WOMAD and Afropunk.
Sounds like…
While fans of original jazz will appreciate the subtle yet classic tones of a smoky saxophone, the incorporation of a modern sound includes the drum machines and/or synthesizers that create a modern-funk. Thus, attaching the finishing touch that gives the self-titled label of “Jazztronica”. When NK-OK, and Mr DM paired they found a mutual love for classic/contemporary jazz and hip-hop figureheads that have pioneered the genres. The group finds inspiration in the new wave of soul inspired jazz, and pay homage to MoonChild and Kendrick Lamar. This is greatly expressed in their latest EP. The result is a boldly-sophisticated motif, with traces of nostalgic melodies, paired with early 90’s hip-hop, at an average 184bpm.
In their lyrics…
As a production duo, the group’s main focus is on its sound. Their production often invites artists to join them as features. Notable collaborators include: Sampa The Great, Tiana Major 9, Kojey Radical, Kin Kai and Jaz Karis among others. Listeners can expect lyrics that push a care-free lifestyle, an urge to dance. When featured alongside Jaz Karis the result is a soft love ballad with crooning Karis, a lustful saxophone and teasing drum.
Listen if you’re feeling…
Chilled vibes that can lift the atmosphere. Blue Lab Beats are the recommended listen to introduce you to the best of the new school of contemporary jazz
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