November 3rd 2008 heralds the return of London-based cult afro-Latin-funk duo Da Lata with ‘This Is Not Your Job’, plus disco and deep house remixes from Faze Action, The Layabouts and Yass.

Key members Patrick Forge and Chris Franck are joined by Senegalese singer/Kora player Diabel Cissokho, previously of the internationally renowned Baba Maal. Cissokho has also played alongside the likes of African A-listers Femi Kuti and Manu Dibango.

A rugged, bumpy hoedown, ‘This Is Not Your Job’ melds a mind-boggling array of styles and instruments from around the word, with the common link being a steely focus on the dancefloor. This floorfiller in waiting is, incidentally, topped-off with one of the most memorable guitar riffs in ages.

Having known one another for over ten years, Christian Franck and Patrick Forge make up the core of Da Lata and are often joined by a spectrum of talented musicians. Chris has been involved in Latin/jazz/soul circles for many years and has worked with key players of the international scene.

Chris Franck was initially in a band called Batu, when Broadcaster/ DJ Patrick Forge became involved after hearing a demo. Their sound appealed to Patrick, who was up for the challenge of working with a live band, citing his role as ‘creative nuisance’. The early release ‘Seasons Of My Mind’ grew in reputation as an anthem in jazz-dance circles worldwide.

The follow-up was a version of Edu Lobo’s Brazilian classic Ponteio and put Da Lata on the map, following support from Francois K and Joe Claussell, who developed the track’s classic status at their revered club night Body and Soul.





Patrick Forge met Nina Miranda in a club in Rio, heard the demo of her underground anthem ‘Underwater Love’ and on Nina’s return to London, introduced her to Chris. Smoke City was born and ‘Underwater Love’ crossed-over to become a major hit in 1996.

Fast-forward to the summer of 98 and a break in the Smoke City frenzy gave Chris and Patrick a chance to record ‘Pra Manha’, which was picked up by legendary Island records boss Chris Blackwell for his Palm Pictures imprint. The track became an instant favourite and Patrick’s dream of paying tribute to the Brazilian music they shared a passion for was fulfilled.

Da Lata released their debut album ‘Songs From the Tin’ in 2000. Respectfully interpreting Brazilian musical styles from their predominately Western European perspective, the album showcased the pair’s songwriting skills and a live earthy feeling: the band themselves describing the sound as ‘cosmopolitan, spacey London samba and future/pastoral afro-funk’. The follow-up, ‘Serious’ appeared in 2003 and featured artist including Baaba Maal and Jhelisa. Both longplayers garnered widespread critical love.

Aside from Da Lata, pillar of clubland Patrick Forge is renowned for his DJ sets alongside Gilles Peterson at the infamous Dingwalls club in Camden, North London. His ‘Rebirth Of Cool’ compilations, Kiss FM ‘Cosmic Jam’ radio show and Notting Hill Arts Club night ‘Inspiration Information’ have all earned him a fond, respected status.