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Skepta’s never really had a quiet year, but 2024 already looks set to be his busiest yet. He’s just released his latest track, “Jangrova”, with Idris Elba and Odumodublvck and it’s a welcome piece of grime nostalgia, but that’s only one piece of the puzzle.
“Jangrova” is a primer of sorts for his upcoming directorial debut, Tribal Mark, a film he’s teased with a couple of clips on Instagram already. The film, which will be screened at Everyman Cinemas across the country from January 26, is said to be the first in what he hopes will be a connected universe of stories.
Speaking more about Tribal Mark, Skepta said in a statement: “I’ve always wanted to get into making films, and now feels like the perfect time. We’ve been working on this project for a while, and it’s one that’s extremely important to me. It’s a story that many immigrants will understand and connect with, as it reflects a journey many have gone through—and this project is for them. Our goal is to expand this into a growing world of action and adventure.
“There are plans for TV shows and movies, and I hope that kids who watch it will come to see Tribal Mark as their new superhero. This has been a new experience for me, wearing many hats like producing, co-directing, and acting. I’m excited to keep moving forward with Tribal Mark and future projects with my team at 1Plus1 Production.”
The film will also feature “Gas Me Up (Diligent)”, the first single to be taken from his forthcoming album, Knife And Fork. There’s no concrete release date for the album, but the single is said to get an official release this Friday, January 26.
Finally, Skepta also announced the line-up for the inaugural Big Smoke Festival. Taking place at Crystal Palace Park on July 6, the festival will be split across two stages, one with more of a grime and rap focus and the other for the house music heads.
Skepta will headline both stages with The Streets, Mahalia, Jme, Lancey Fouxx, K-Trap, Odumodublvck, Frisco, Flowdan, Sir Spyro, INFAMOUSIZAK, Manga Saint Hilare, and Thafirst booked for the main stage. Meanwhile, on the Mas Tiempo stage, he’s got Loco Dice, Uncle Waffles, Syreeta, Jammer, Honeyluv, Kitty Amor, Ossie, and The Menendez Brothers. Get your tickets here.
