Da Lata

Da Lata is a pivotal project in the UK's global-fusion and nu-jazz movements, formed in 1996 by Chris Franck and Patrick Forge. Emerging from the Brighton-based group Batu, the duo sought to synthesize Afro-Brazilian traditions with London's club culture.

Their sound identity is characterized by a sophisticated 'fat' organic production style that favors live percussion and acoustic textures over heavy synthesis. This approach aligned them with the 'Broken Beat' and 'Acid Jazz' scenes, earning them early support from influential tastemakers like Gilles Peterson and the Body & Soul collective in New York. Their career arc is defined by a highly successful debut era on Palm Pictures, followed by a significant hiatus and a 2010s resurgence that maintained their signature warmth while incorporating broader soul and jazz influences. Critically, they are regarded as masters of the 'remix as reconstruction,' having reimagined works for Bebel Gilberto and Femi Kuti. Their work remains a cornerstone for collectors of the 'Brownswood sound,' representing a bridge between traditional batucada and modern electronic dance music.