Key Points
- Blue Lab Beats, the acclaimed London-based jazztronica duo, have released a new single titled “North London Pace” as a precursor to their fifth studio album scheduled for release next year.
- The single blends 1970s jazz fusion sounds with modern expressive synths, evolving into a smooth hip hop-infused instrumental.
- Accompanying visuals pay homage to tap dance, reflecting the duo’s deep ties to Black creative traditions and community.
- The duo consists of NK-OK (Namali Kwaten) and David Mrakpor, who share a long-standing musical synergy.
- Blue Lab Beats have amassed over 85 million streams on Spotify and have received multiple honours including a GRAMMY for production on Angélique Kidjo’s Fired Up and a Jazz FM Innovation Award.
- They have performed internationally, including prestigious venues like the Montreux Jazz Festival, Tokyo’s Blue Note, and the Royal Albert Hall.
- The single follows their critically acclaimed 2024 album BLUE ECLIPSE and signals a new chapter in their innovative fusion of jazz, hip hop, and electronic music.
- The new video was directed by Kit Kelsey, produced by Emir Tekin, and filmed at ORBB Studios.
- The production credits include several musicians contributing drums, bass, guitar, saxophone, cello, violin, and tap dance.
What is Blue Lab Beats’ New Single ‘North London Pace’ About?
As reported by a WORDPLAY magazine article dated November 17, 2025, Blue Lab Beats have released their new single ‘North London Pace’, which serves as the first glimpse into their forthcoming fifth studio album due in 2026. The track opens with crisp, staccato phrases reminiscent of 1970s jazz fusion before smoothly transitioning into a velvety hip hop instrumental. This progression reflects the long-honed chemistry between the duo—NK-OK and David Mrakpor—who have powered their unique sound from the start of their career.
The song is inspired by the dynamic energy of London’s jazz and instrumental scene, intending to capture the feel of improvisational nights in the city. The track features an uptempo segment that flows into a groove-heavy beat change, embodying the spirit of London’s vibrant musical culture and jam sessions across the capital and beyond. The song’s string arrangement was elevated by Steve Hussey from The Urban Soul Orchestra, adding a lush layer inspired by soul music roots.
How Does the ‘North London Pace’ Video Connect to Blue Lab Beats’ Artistic Vision?
The official music video, released on November 7, 2025, was directed by Kit Kelsey and produced by Emir Tekin at ORBB Studios. The visual pays homage to tap dance, a form deeply linked to Black creative expression and jazz lineage, reflecting Blue Lab Beats’ commitment to celebrating and continuing Black cultural traditions.
The video features Annette Walker as the tap dancer, alongside performances from various musicians, including Benji Appiah (drums), Isobella Burnham (bass), Amal Shaham (guitar), Camilla George (saxophone), Josie Campbell (cello), and Rebekah Reid (violin). Additional credits include sound engineers Tommy Bosustow and Flynn McBurney and stylist Ramario Chevoy, all contributing to a rich, community-focused production that aligns with Blue Lab Beats’ ethos of collaboration and experimentation.youtube
What Has Been Blue Lab Beats’ Journey and Achievements to Date?
Blue Lab Beats is a London-based duo comprising Namali Kwaten (stage name NK-OK) and David Mrakpor (Mr DM). Emerging initially as bedroom producers by remixing tracks for artists such as Dua Lipa and Rag’n’Bone Man, they have since evolved into prominent figures in contemporary jazz and production.
Their work has earned global recognition, including a GRAMMY Award for production on Angélique Kidjo’s 2022 album Fired Up. They have been nominated five times for MOBO Awards and won the Jazz FM Innovation Award. They have graced stages at internationally renowned festivals and venues such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, Blue Note Tokyo, the Royal Albert Hall (notably a three-night takeover), and JAZZ RE FEST.
With over 85 million Spotify streams, Blue Lab Beats are regarded as one of the UK’s most exciting contemporary jazz acts, continually pushing the boundaries of genre by combining elements of jazz, hip hop, soul, funk, and electronic music.
What Does the New Single Signal for Blue Lab Beats’ Musical Direction?
‘North London Pace’ marks an exciting new chapter for Blue Lab Beats, continuing their exploration of jazztronica — the fusion of jazz, electronic music, and hip hop. Following their 2024 critically acclaimed album BLUE ECLIPSE, this new single and upcoming album promise to deepen their genre-defying sound.
The duo’s approach emphasises improvisation, community, and cultural heritage, as evidenced by the track’s changing tempos, cross-genre instrumentation, and visual storytelling referencing Black creative practices such as tap dance. It reflects their ongoing commitment to mentorship and supporting emerging musicians within London’s jazz scene, weaving community engagement into their artistry.
Who Were the Key Contributors to the ‘North London Pace’ Video and Production?
The music video’s production credits reflect a strong collaborative spirit. According to the official YouTube release by Blue Lab Beats:
- Director: Kit Kelsey
- Executive Producer: Hughie Kelsey
- Producer: Emir Tekin
- Director of Photography: Jamie Oliver Lai
- Tap Dancer: Annette Walker
- Musicians: Benji Appiah (drums), Isobella Burnham (bass), Amal Shaham (guitar), Camilla George (saxophone), Josie Campbell (cello), Rebekah Reid (violin)
- Sound Engineers: Tommy Bosustow, Flynn McBurney
- Stylist: Ramario Chevoy
- Management: Maura and Kwame Kwaten
- Management Assistant: Lacey Lucas
This detailed team reflects the depth of production behind the single’s release and the duo’s dedication to quality and community representation in their projects.youtube
What Are Blue Lab Beats’ Plans Around This Release?
As announced, ‘North London Pace’ is the lead single ahead of their forthcoming fifth studio album set for a 2026 release. This album is poised to further cement Blue Lab Beats as key architects of the UK’s evolving jazz future, expanding their reach both nationally and internationally while honouring their roots in London’s jazz and Black creative communities.
The duo’s live performances continue to be highly anticipated, with previous headline shows such as their London Jazz Café sold-out event and a multi-night Royal Albert Hall engagement underpinning their reputation as electrifying live artists.
