October 1, 2021
London-based Jazztronica duo Blue Lab Beats have joined forces with Stones Throw affiliate Kiefer on new single “Dat It.”
A potent combination of sly piano lines and funk-drenched synths, “Dat It” is broad-minded modern jazz jam brimming with feel-good energy as the duo go back and forth with LA-based pianist and producer Kiefer, who is fresh off his performance on “Knife Talk” from Drake’s new album Certified Lover Boy. The accompanying official video for “Dat It,” directed by Jed Welland, further encapsulates the track’s energy as it follows the duo from the studio (with a cameo from Kiefer) around London to a headline show at The Colour Factory, captured in a retro-90’s VHS style format. The track follows the duo’s recent singles “Blow You Away (Delilah)” and “Sensual Loving,” two summer-infused collaborations with Ghanaian Afrobeat star Ghetto Boy, with the picturesque videos for those shot across Accra.
“This song was so much fun to record, especially having the amazing Kiefer featuring on keys,” NK-OK and Mr DM explain. “We did a mini tour with Kiefer way back in 2019 and have been in contact since so we finally decided to make a track this year. Such a humble human being with great advice so it was an honor to get him on board for this song.”
One of the fastest-rising production duos in the world right now, Blue Lab Beats consists of producer NK-OK and multi-instrumentalist Mr DM. Starting out as bedroom producers, remixing tracks from A-listers such as Dua Lipa and Rag’N’Bone Man, the pair quickly grew into something far more potent – crafting a supple, wide-ranging sound inspired by the pioneers of hip-hop and the music of the African diaspora while staying true to their London roots. Following their appearance on 2020’s acclaimed Blue Note Re:imagined project, the duo released their debut EP for Blue Note Records We Will Rise earlier this year.
Pianist and producer Kiefer has released regularly on Stones Throw, is a frequent collaborator with Mndsgn’s live trio, and has also worked with Anderson .Paak. He began playing piano as a child and producing beats aged just 12, moving from San Diego to LA to study under renowned jazz guitarist Kenny Burrell at the UCLA Jazz Studies program.
