ALT BLK ERA have released ‘OKAY! OKAY!’, a new collaboration with Japanese rapper and singer-songwriter Novel Core.
Released on 11 November, the single brings together rock, rap and electronic influences, pairing sisters Nyrobi and Chaya with an artist who shares their approach to mixing genres.
The release forms part of a planned year of international collaborations for the duo, who are bringing new creative partnerships into the writing process for their second album.
“This collaboration may seem surprising because of the obvious language and cultural differences – however, Novel Core is a genre-defying artist who mixes genres like rock and rap in the same way that we do, so it feels like a perfect partnership,” Nyrobi said.
“Our sounds complement each other so well and it’s been an exciting creative process. Music really is borderless and this collaboration is another example of that.”
Chaya highlighted the track’s combination of guitars and Novel Core’s delivery, describing the result as “such a gritty track”.
“Growing up, we have always enjoyed listening to music from around the world, so it feels great to be blending cultures and languages in this way,” she added.
The artists worked remotely on the single, a process Novel Core said felt surprisingly immediate.
“The process of making the song felt so intricate and natural despite working remotely; it almost felt like we were in the room together!” he said.
Novel Core was the first artist signed to SKY-HI’s BMSG label and performed his first solo arena show at K-Arena Yokohama in February 2025.
For ALT BLK ERA, the collaboration follows debut album Rave Immortal and appearances at Sziget, Rock for People and Frequency in 2026. The sisters are continuing work on its follow-up, with further international collaborations planned.
