Jacob Banks with Jamie N Commons and LIAM

The first thing you notice about Jacob Banks is that distinctive voice. A rich, sonorous baritone, with just a hint of his Birmingham accent barely sneaking through, it gives you the impression that you’re listening to an artist with more mileage than Banks’ 27 years. Born in Nigeria and raised in the U.K., Banks channels both places in his music, mixing retro blues and contemporary R&B into a beguiling concoction. Following three EPs, Banks recently released Village, his debut full-length, an effortlessly cool and deeply felt collection in which he examines his roots and explores black identity, encouraging young people of color to “wear your afro like your backbone.”