This week’s Artist of The Week is Marla Kether—a rising and thriving session bassist, DJ, and producer based in London.
Marla has previously worked with the likes of Yazmin Lacey, Loyle Carner, and Obongjayar, as well as working on a self-produced EP “All That We Have,” which was released last year. Most recently though, Marla has teamed up with another TVD favourite, Samantha Lindo, on new single and remix “Bloodline,” which is out now.
Inspired by the likes of Kaidi Tathum and Kokoroko, the remix is Marla’s first release since her debut EP. With the help of some wonderfully warm and rich horns played by Poppy Daniels and James Akers, Marla has switched up this soulful jazz piece into an immersive bed of grooves reminiscent of the broken beat scene of the late ‘90s, and sounds that encapsulate the essence of “London jazz.”
Marla explains what drew her to this rework: “The mix is so full-bodied and rich, and the track is beautiful. With my music, I’m used to working with different elements recorded separately, as with electronic music there isn’t much importance placed on instruments sounding like they were recorded live.”
“So I wanted to challenge myself to reinterpret this track that clearly sounds like everything was recorded in the same session, while preserving that quality. Upon first listening, I was naturally drawn to the bass riff and immediately started humming it to myself but at a faster tempo, hence the 123bpm broken beat remix. I’ve really enjoyed making this track—it’s pushed me out of my comfort zone and it’s been an incredibly satisfying process.”
Since taking up DJing during lockdown in 2020, Marla has rapidly honed her craft, playing at venues across the country and festivals including Latitude and contributing outstanding mixes for BBC 6Music, NTS, and Foundation FM. The different strands of Marla’s musical career are almost as diverse and otherworldly as her excellent selections, which commonly feature a bass-led blend of kuduro, dembow, techno, and Jersey club, as well as high-energy house and disco tunes from around the globe.
Marla Kether’s remix of “Bloodline” is in stores now.
