Marla Kether releases sophomore single ‘BTR2’ on Saffron Records

Fresh off of a killer debut single ‘Revolve’; championed by Crack Magazine, Shanti Celeste and Jamz Supernova to name a few, 2021-22 Artist Development programme graduate Marla Kether is back with her sophomore release ‘BTR2’, out on May 16th via Saffron Records.

Out on May 16th, the track is a meditative anthem with mesmerising harmony from virtuosic keys player MADELEINE (Arlo Parks), familiar to the sounds of London Jazz like Yussef Kamaal and Emma-Jean Thackray. 

After attending a Saffron ‘Tech Dissect’ session, Marla embarked on a wiser and more matured revisiting of her first ever production ‘Brazilian Thing’ – inspired by Candomblé rhythms, from the Afro-diasporic religion of Brazil – known for their use of ritualistic percussion in spiritual ceremonies. 

Wielding the unique element of layering up to 3 bass guitars, with each bass part being gradually introduced – the track constantly teases its uplifting and harmonious climax. Locked down by a drum-driven groove, Marla and Madeleine compliment each other’s parts with a smooth yet ecstatic harmonic finesse suggestive of Ghanaian Highlife.

London-born to Congolese parents, Marla Kether has cut her musical teeth as a session bassist with Yazmin Lacey, Oscar Jerome, and Obongjayar. Marla is now taking centre stage and establishing herself as a solo artist for the first time, since starting to produce music in lockdown 2020, fuelled by a desire to use the time away from touring to develop her own musical identity.

Marla will be playing some of the UK/Europe’s biggest festivals this year as bassist for Loyle Carner. During this time she will also be playing her own DJ gigs and live band shows, with bookings including Love Saves The Day, Forwards Festival, Highrise Festival and is being hotly tipped for Glastonbury.

Use the links below to stream/download “BTR2” via all the main platforms. Be sure to follow Marla on Instagram and TikTok, and watch this space for more music from her – with features including Onipa frontman K.O.G and Snazzback collaborator Solomon O.B – coming soon…